PRINCESS AND TIVOLI

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 46, 17 May 1927, Page 15

PRINCESS AND TIVOLI

“THE CANADIAN PIONEER” Surrounded by a highly capable cast, Thomas Meighan arrives at the Princess and Tivoli Theatres in a cinema film adapted by Arthur Stringer from W. Somerset Maugham’s play, “The Canadian Pioneer,” and directed by William Beaudine. Frank Taylor, having failed to harvest his crop the year before, is shown working for his friend. Ed. Marsh. To disturb an otherwise normal existence, Kora Marsh reaches her brother’s ranch after having lived most of her 20 years within the confines of London. Needless to say, the temperaments of Nora and her brother’s crude wife clash; and, hearing that Taylor wants a wife who will work, she asks if she’ll do. Here is where drama of the most poignant sort creeps in, and it is in these scenes that Meighan’s artistry is said to rise to the very heights. The land of tamales, taquilla, and jumping beans is the locale for Richard Talmadge to display his ability in “The Blue Streak,” and the famous stunt star is at his spectacular best in this production, which will be shown on the same programme. Richard certainly does wave those dogs of his leaping from one adventure to another below the border, and he has added some new thrillers to his repertoire of high and lofty acting. James Bell Smith has given Daring Dick his best vehicle to date, and Noel Smith’s direction is beyond cavil. Louise Lorraine makes a delightful heroine, while Charles Clary’, Henry Herbert, Charles Mailes, and Victor Dillingham are all excellent in the roles which have been assigned to them.