THE PICTURE HOUSES.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 15742, 6 February 1922, Page 5

THE PICTURE HOUSES.

EVERYBODY'S. To fill Everybody’s ,to capacity at both matinee and night screenings is a tall order, but ‘,‘Alf’s Button.’' the companion picture to “The Better ’Ole,” and the Charles Ray production “Nineteen and. Phyllis” proved strong enough megnets to do'this on Saturday. The wholesouled and spontaneous laughter tlinl greeted the unfolding of the tr.le <> ( “Alf’s Button” is an indication of the highly entertaining qualities of this exceptional picture, a worthy companion of that- great English classic “The Better ’Ole.” It is a cleverly conceived sequel to the old fairy tale of Aladdin’s Lamp. “Alf’s Button” is one continuous round of delightful episode contiguous to Alf’s discovery of the magic qualities of his button. Fro 171 the time when the genie, in response to Alt's remark’ “Strike me pink,” does so, right up to the last moment of the story when the obliging genie presents Alf’s spouse with three bouncing boys, there is not a moment that does not bring forth its peal of enjoyment. In “Nineteen and Phyllis” Charles Rav scores another triumph. The production provides a wholesome and refreshing entertainment. It is a delightful story of youthful romance pictnrised to life i-.i an entertaining manner. Ray is seen as a dandy, whose greatest aim in life is to dazzle the eyes of the fair young miss whom he some day hopes (o win. The semi-final episode of Smashing Barriers serial also proved a big success. This programme will be repeated to-night. PALACE. The success made with the thrilling dramatic story of “Proxies,” and the spectacular sensational melodrama "Flame of the Desert,” at the Palace should ensure a crowded house this evening. “Proxies” is an unusual" and appealing play. The theme deab with a reformed crook who is determined to live straight and, who has a hard time realising his desire. The picture is not only entertaining but it lias the quality of uplift as well* Norman' Kerry is tlie lending man, Zena. Keefe tlie ladies’ maid, and Ray Dean the pretty sweetheart who causes so much jealousy in many breasts. “Flame of tlie Desert’ 1 * is a romance of England and Egypt and deals with love and politics. The plot concerns the attempt of Abdoul’Bey to found a new Mohammed Empire and overthrow the British rule. A native rising is planned to take, place. Lady' Gabel Charming, a brilliant young Eng-, 'ish woman, becomes involved through ’her love for Shiek Essad. It. is then discovered that the Sliielc is an Englishman of note who had lived- with the Arabs for many years to frustrate this plot to destroy British power. The piny is most spectacular in scenic display, the acting of Geraldine Farrar, Lou Tellegen and Alaev Harlam being particularly brilliant. The supporting programme is excellent and includes Eddie Polo in a. very exciting episode of tlie “King of Hie Circus.” « At the matinee on Wednesday tlie long looked ’or Selznick production. “The Sin That Was His” will lie one of the big attrne- '■ ions. This will international star, William Faversham. Enid 1 Bennett m “Silk Hosiery” will also be shown.