“BEN HUR”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20322, 2 February 1928, Page 5

“BEN HUR”

The combined research and culture and experience of 30 years make the motion picture “ Ben Hur ” the supreme effort of screen creation, it is said. All the brilliant triumphs and successes that have been since the camera introduced the new art seem to have culminated in this crowning achievement —to have been the preparatory work for this effort. Such praise is lavish, but the opinion of the entire world, led by personages so famous as the Prince of Wales, uic Archbishop of Canterbury, and 14 reigning royalties, gives it ample support. livery section of society will find m “Ben Hur” an equal appeal. In the throngs that have flocked to see it in England, America, and throughout the Continent, royalty has mingled with commoner; leaders of the world’s thought, famous churchmen, men and women of high intellectual distinction —all have marvelled at “ Ben Hur.” As a motion pictufe. General Lew Wallace’s novel and its remarkable descriptions, have been given the dimensions m life and reality. A lost age is recreated with a fidelity that seems incredible, and would be but for the evidence of countless legions of warriors, the swarming hordes eddying around historic shrines, the mute appeal of the architectural majesty of Rome, Jerusalem, Antioch, and the inspiring sweep of war vessels across the blue Mediterranean. “ Ben Hur ” brings an ancient world to throbbing life. The pomp of Rome and theXagony of Israel surge throughout A masterpiee of surpassing mauty _ and massiveness, it breathes a sense of majesty that, combined with its symbouc rplen dour and reverential suggestion of <t\'. tragedy of Christ, holds an audience spellbound. In such moments as the chariot race and the sea fight of the galleys the thrill of nervous action, clashing combat, and flashing steel, awakens a tumult of excitement. As to the acting, too much praise cannot be awarded Ramon Novarro for Ins fine portrayal of the heroic Hebrew youth who loved, suffered, fought, and won Francis X. Bushman’s splendid muscular frame and handsome features fit him eminently for the role of the proud, dominating Messala. Other outstanding performances are those of May M’Avoy, as Esther; Nigel de Brulier as Simonides; Claire M’Dowell in an affecting mother role; Carmel Myers as Iras; and Kathleen Key as Tirzah. “ Ben Hur ” will have its initial screening at the Empire and Octagon Theatres to-morrow.