ENTERTAINMENTS

Southland Times, Issue 24057, 22 February 1940, Page 9

ENTERTAINMENTS

REGENT THEATRE “FOUR JUST MEN” SEASON CLOSES TOMORROW Given added force by the recent turn of international events, “The Four Just Men," the powerful new British filrp which will be shown at the Regent Theatre again today and tomorrow, is an exciting, well-constructed film dealing with the less palatable side of international scheming. The ramifications of the spy system of a foreign Power so extensive that it embraces even a member of the British Houses of Parliament, form the background of the plot, and the Four Just Men, working outside the law, but for the good of the Empire, are striving to awaken the nation’s people to the danger surrounding them before it is too late. It is an unusual picture, but a very welcome one, with good acting and smooth, polished English voices. London is the scene against which most of the action is set, but there are occasional flashes of Continental life; indeed, the film commences with an execution sequence set in a foreign prison. The blocking of the Suez canal and the destruction of the British-controlled oil interests, with consequent dislocation of the whole Empire, are the aim of the foreign schemers, but the Four Just Men, in a quiet and efficient manner, thwart the plan, although not without losses in their meagre ranks. There is suspense and excitement sufficient for all, and romance and humour is provided through the medium of a woman gossip writer who wants to become a crime reporter. Among those in the cast

are Frank Lawton, Francis Sullivan and Hugh Sinclair. The supporting programme, too, ' British and good. STATE THEATRE WILL HAY FINALLY The well-known British comedian, Will Hay, ably hindered by Moore Marriott and Graham Moffatt, has blundered through many Public Services. In the G.B.D. attraction, “Ask a Policeman,” which will be presented finally today at 2 and 8 at the State Theatre, the three do their best to ruin the local rural constabulary and here they make an hilarious digression into what they imagine to be the realm of the supernatural. It is delightful entertainment and the comedy is brilliant. JASCHA HEIFETZ TOMORROW lEY SHALL HAVE MUSIC” With Jascha Heifetz, the world’s most < renowned violinist starred, Samuel Goldwyn’s new major production, “They Shall Have Music,” which will have its premiere showing at the State Theatre at 2 and 8 tomorrow, unfolds a gripping story of human interest, highlighted by tense and thrilling action. The principal romantic roles are played by Andrea Leeds and Joel McCrea, while the important supporting roles are portrayed by Walter Brennan, Gene Reynolds and Tommy Kelly. Archie Mayo, who staged such hits as “The Adventures of Marco Polo” and “The Petrified Forest,” directed “They Shall Have Music.” “They Shall Have Music” draws its characters and plot from the wealth of material found on New York’s East Side. Briefly, the story revolves

around Professor Lawson, portrayed by Walter Brennan, and his music school settlement, composed of ragged youngsters who are musical prodigies. Special featurettes include the March of Time, “War, Peace and Propaganda,” showing a graphic detail of Britain’s preparations for war, air raids precautions units in action, anti-aircraft batteries being set up in industrial centres, conscription in operation, and many other phases of England’s military programme. The film also shows Holland’s bridges equipped with tank traps and how she floods her lowlands to stop the invader. It also shows how Belgium has extended her underground frontier fortifications. State box plans are at Begg’s or theatre, telephone 645. MAJESTIC THEATRE “BROTHER RAT” AND “STRANGE FACES” The double-feature comedy programme which has been screening at the Majestic Theatre since Tuesday will have its final screening today. In “Brother Rat” Warner Bros, bubbling comedy of life, love and laughter at a famous military academy, Priscilla Lane and Wayne Morris are starred, and the supporting cast includes Ronala Regan, Jane Bryan, Eddy Albert and Jane Wyman. The other comedy feature, “Strange Faces,” is a Universal mystery comedy which has Frank Jenks, Dorothea Kent and Andy Devine as the featured players. “TWO BRIGHT BOYS” BIG FEATURE TOMORROW Two of the screen’s biggest players, Freddie Bartholmew and Jackie Cooper,

are the stars of Universal’s stirring and exciting drama, “Two Bright Boys,” which will open at the Majestic Theatre tomorrow (Friday). It is a case of tough English grit on the part of Bartholomew versus the fighting Yankee spirit of Jackie Cooper. They take an instant dislike to one another and oppose one another in no uncertain manner until their friendship is fused together against a comtnoh enemy. Warner Brothers’ comedy, “Men Are Such Fools,” as the title indicates, opens up an age-old controversy which has been the subject of debate between the sexes since Adam ate the first apple. The latest Cinesound News will introduce the performance while Chapter 4 of the popular radio western serial, “The Lone Ranger Rides Again,” will be screened after the two main features. Intending patrons are advised to reserve at H. and J.. Smith’s departmental store. Rice’s Majestic sweet shop or at the Majestic Theatre (telephone 738) as the demand for seats is sure to tax the capacity of the theatre.