IRISH STATESMAN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23505, 20 May 1938, Page 4

IRISH STATESMAN

CAREER OF PARNELL The tensely-human story of a love that affected nations is drawn in the fictional drama of “Parnell,” which Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer will offer at the Empire Theatre to-day, with Clark Gable and Myrna Loy in the starring roles. Directed by John Stahl, from the original stage play by Elsie T. Schauffler, the screen adaptation was written by John Van Druten, and closely follows the spectacular career of Charles Stewart Parnell, who found a great love more powerful than a great cause. Gable and Miss Loy are said to be superb in their respective roles as the fiery Irish leader and the beautiful Katie O’Shea, whom he loves beyond any fame or fortune that political power might bring. “ Parnell,” as it is here presented, becomes international, although it remains essentially Irish, of course. But always it is the dramatic love story of a striking individual and a lovely woman. The supporting cast is most impressive. Included are Edna May Oliver, Billie Burke, Alan Marshall, Edmund Gwenn. Donald Crisp, Berton Churchill, Donald Meek, and others. In addition, there is a spectacular group of native Irish, who add realistic cojpur to the scenes. The story describes the historical rise of Parnell, who was the only man ever to unite the 86 members of the Irish Party in a struggle for Home Rule. His love of Katie O'Shea* a married woman, the scandal which results when her estranged husband (Willie O’Shea) divorces her, and the collapse of Parnell’s political career, are closely followed with all of their dramatic qualities.