THE “COSY” THEATRE.

Otaki Mail, 6 June 1934, Page 2

THE “COSY” THEATRE.

“LOOKING FORWARD.” THURSDAY. The invigorating acting of Lionel Barrymore, the discerning direction of Clarence Brown, and a film story which touches the hearts of the millions who have found their lives altered as a result of the world-wide depression, makes “Looking Forward,” which will screen to-rnorrow night at the Cosy theatre, one of the most profoundly stirring photoplays to reach the screen in some time. It is reported that this picture, before being released to the general public, was unreeled at America’s White House before President Franklin IV Roosevelt, who was so impressed by its inspiring story of hope and courage, that he permitted its producers, M.G.M. to use the title of his recently acclaimed book, “Looking Forward,” for the picture. This gesture will be easily understood by those who view the new film drama and are moved by its tremendously human theme. Simple, direct, it tells its story in terms that everyone can understand. The background is a great London department store. Lewis Stone is the millionaire who owns the store; Barrymore is the old, faithful bookkeeper who has devoted almost a lifetime to his humble work. The woman in. the life of each man affects that man’s destiny. Stone’s wife deceives him and tears down the structure of his faith. Barrymore’s wife, on the other hand, regenerates him when his world crashes about his head. Interwoven is a romance between Elizabeth Allan and Colin Clive as well as the story of Stone’s son, played by Phillips Holmes, who stands by when, in the poignant dramatic climax, the old book keeper proves the key that saves the great business bouse from tottering on tbe brink of financial wreckage. Barrymore, in the starring role, is, as usual, touching and dramatically powerful, and another flawless performance is contributed by Stone as the aristocratic store owner. In fact, tbe entire supporting cast, including Benita Hume, Elizabeth Allan, Phillips Holmes, Colin Clive, Alee B. Francis. Doris Lloyd, Hailiwcfl Hobbes, Douglas "Walton, Viva Tattersa'l, Lawrence Grant, George K. Arthur, dares Irwin and Billy Bevan, are deserving of the highest praise.