MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 461, 17 September 1928, Page 15

MAJESTIC

“THE GATEWAY OF THE MOON” A splendid entertainment comprising an entirely dramatic picture, the cowboy band and music, is the offering at the comfortable Majestic Theatre this evening. “The Gateway of the Moon” is the main pictorial attraction. An absorbing romance, colourful backgrounds, and a cast of players' headed by Dolores Del Rio, make this picture one of outstanding merit. The story of “The Gateway of the Moon” deals with white men’s greed and primitive passions in a South American jungle, where Englishmen are building a railroad through the wilds. The construction outfit is in charge of Gillespie, played by Anders Randolf, a ruthless brute who is building the road with the lives and suffering of helpless natives. Hated and feared by every man and woman in camp except his niece, Toni, Gillespie has his way until the arrival Qf Arthur Wyatt, played by Walter Pidgeon, who is sent by the home office to investigate certain ugly rumours. Then, in some of the most gripping scenes ever enacted before the camera, is unrolled a drama of primitive passions, hate and love that will not soon escape the memory. Thrills and suspense and humour, too, abound. The cast is splendid and includes Ted MacNamara, in the role of Henry Hooker, a shiftless helper, who is a source of real mirth wherever he appears in a scene. The supporting programme includes an interesting picture showing the effect of the Spanish style of architecture in America, and depicting many famous Spanish Missions. The other films are a comedy and the Majestic News of the world. Fred Mayfield’s Cowboy Band presents another enjoyable half-hour of music ranging all the way from the latest jazz to Liszt. They are a versatile combination, playing all manner of instruments with skill. In addition they introduce a novel note by singing through small megaphones. Mr. Whiteford Waugh and his talented Majestic Orchestra will present another excellent musical programme.