PLAZA

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 673, 27 May 1929, Page 15

PLAZA

“THE SINGING FOOL” The success with which the fine all-talking picture, “The Singing Fool,” is meeting at the Plaza Theatre is well merited, for the film is unquestionably the best talking picture yet produced. It stars A 1 Jolson, one of the favourites of Broadway, and undoubtedly America’s best negro impersonator. Dwelling on the theme of a -wonderful love for a little son and the parting that follows the callous perfidy of his wife, “The Singing Fool” is a picture of tears sharply contrasted with night-life gaiety. Throughout the picture the dialogue and sound effects, together with the synchronised music, lend remarkable realism. The reproduction, which is by the Vitaphone process, is exceptionally good, and the voices of Jolson, Josephine Dunn. Betty Bronson and Bittle Davey Lee, who plays Jolson’s son, are all heard clearly. Among the supporting numbers are Gossec’s “Gavotte” and Dvorak’s “Humoresque,” played by Mischa Elman: “Vesta La Giubba,” from Leoncavallo’s “I Pagliacci.” burlesque on grand opera by the Howard Brothers; “The Rosary.” “Love's Old Sweet Song” and “Drinking Song.” by a male quartet; and Wagner’s "Tannhauser” overture by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra of 110 instruments.

Nancy Carroll and Jack Oakie, both former stars of the musical comedy stage, play featured roles in “Close Harmony,” Charles Rogers's next picture.