ENTERTAINMENTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23758, 11 September 1940, Page 12

ENTERTAINMENTS

Roxy, Tivoli Theatres. —Ropleto with the thrills of action, Warner Brothers' film "Calling Philo Vance" will ho the main attraction of the - new doublefeature programme nt ilic Boxy and Tivoli Theatres to-day. The title role is filled by Ralph Forbes, who is responsible for a natural, straightforward portrayal as a brilliant .detectivo engaged on his most baffling case. Sheila IJroniley is an attractive heroine. Another fast-moving melodrama, "Half a Sinner," is the second picture. Heather Angel heads a talented cast. Majestic Theatre. —Desperate battles for the rights to a rich gold mine are vividly depicted in "Hidden Gold," tho latest of Clarence M. Mulford's novels to be adapted to the screen, which is now being shown at tlio Majestic Theatre. A stern drama, "Women Without Names," completes the programme. The inimitablo band of youths known as the "Dead Knd Kids" have their exuberance moulded into more useful channels in the bright comedy-drama "On Dress Parade," which is to head the new program mo at the theatre on Friday. They enrol nt a United Stntes military school, and, although the story affords" scope for their boisterous humour, it often assumes a more serious note than in their previous films. The comedy "Blondio" also will be' shown.

Civic Theatre. —Tho bright musical film "Two Ciirls on Broadway" will be shown at the Civic Theatre to-day. To commence a season at the theatre on Kriday is tho poignant story of the hardships of an American family during the world depression ol the early nineteen-thirtu'S, "The G rapes ol Wrath." Henry Fonda bonds the cast, and sincere acting lends vivid reality to the tale, which is representative of the misfortunes of thousands of families at tho time.

Regent Theatre. —One of this year's most impressive productions, "Dr. Fhrlich's Magic Bullet," heads the current programme at the Regent Theatre. Kdward G. Robinson is tho leading player.

St. James' Theatre.—Tho fourth film of tho popular Dr. Kildnre series, "Dr. Ki Ida re's St range Case," will be presented lor the first time, at St. James' Theatre to-day. As Dr. Kildare, Lew Ay res again takes tho part which marked bis welcome return to tho screen. The young interne has another strange case to deal with in this film, and tlio combination of tho drama in a doctor's life, and tho solving of a mystery makes an absorbing plot. Favourites of former productions are includod in the cast, and the lovable character of the crippled specialist, Dr. Gillespie, is admirably portrayed by Lionel Barrymore. Attractive Larraine Day adds romantic interest to the story, while a leavening of humour is provided by Nat Pendleton in tho role of the ambulance driver. An excellent selection of short features will precede the main attaction.

Plaza Theatre. —Columbia's merry farco "My Favourite Wife" continues its popular season at the Pla/.a Theatre to-day. The leading players are Gary Grant nnd Irene Dunne, while the director was Garston Kaniu, also responsible for "Bachelor Mother." Century Theatre.—Colourful scenes and an amusing plot make tho current attraction at the Century Theatre, "Irene." excellent entertainment. Ray Milland and Anna Neaglo head a cast of experienced comedy players, including Roland Young, Rillie Burke and Arthur Treacher. Adapted from a play bv Somerset Maugham, the riotous farce "Too Many Husbands" will be presented at the Century Theatre on Friday. The well-known artists, Joan Arthur, Melvyn Douglas and Fred MacMurray, form another of the eternal triangles and hilarious situations combined with clever dialogue give tho players ample scope for their talent.

Strand Theatre.—Hearty Australian humour lends a refreshing touch to "Dad Rudd, M.P.," tho main attraction at the Strand Theatre to-day. As the rugged old individualist from the back country, Bert Bailey again presents an endearing character study. Fred McDonald also is v a noteworthy success as tho well-known clwracter

Embassy Theatre.—Bette Davis excels her previous triumphs with an almost flawless portrayal in "The Old Maid," Warner Brothers' absorbing drama now being shown at the Embassy Theatre. Miriam Hopkins and George Brent also arc prominently carft.