MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 689, 14 June 1929, Page 15

MAJESTIC

“THE SILENT HOUSE”

The famous stage melodrama, “The Silent House,” has been filmed, and very successfully, too. The stage version ran for a year at one theatre in London, and 10 months on Broadway, and all theatre-goers in Australia and New Zealand will remember Maurice j Moscovitch’s fine performance as Dr. j Chan Fu. In this British Film ver- | sion, coming to the Majestic Theatre this evening, Gibb McLaughlin, in the same role, does not disappoint; in fact, it is one of the greatest and most sensational pieces of screen acting ’V6 have yet witnessed. His make-up is so extraordinarily realistic, and. although the delightful Mabel Poulton gives a very charming performance as T’Mala, it is Gibb McLaughlin’s picture. Arthur Pusev, a newcomer to the films, gives great promise, as is witnessed by his portrayal of young Winsford. Next in order of merit is Frank Perfitt as Richard Winsford, and Gerald Rawlinson as Captain Barty. The producer, Walter Forde. is to be warmly congratulated on his plucky enterprise in tackling such a production as “The Silent House,” for lie has j hitherto concentrated on the producing | and acting in feature comedies. He j is undoubtedly an asset to the ranks of j British producers.

The interiors of the house are really wonderful, and the Chinese sets are ! brilliant, with wonderful and faithful j detail. The photography is the elevi crest and most perfect yet seen in a i British film.

Tho storv begins in China, -where ! Richard Winsford robs Dr. Chan Fu’s ; Joss of its jewellery. Chan Fu fol- j lows him to London, and finally kills him. In his hypnotic power he has Winsford’s partner’s daughter, whom he calls T’Mala. Before Winsford’s death he left a half-written note for his heir and nephew, George, which tells that some of the jewels have been turned into bonds, and that both the latter and the priceless “star” are hidden; but it does not say where. Chan Fu pretends to be the young Winsford’s friend, and the law informs them that the bonds must be found arid redeemed within 24 hours. Then follows a series of thrilling and hectic incidents, where Chan Fu tortures his victims, but is later killed, and Wins3ord collects both T’Mala and the. i bonds as his prize. The story ends happily. The programme also includes an Eve's Review, a Majestic Magazine, . and “Four Indian Love Lyrics,” with special musical accompaniment by Mr. Whiteford Waugh’s Majestic Or- ! chestra.