NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 713, 12 July 1929, Page 15

NEW REGENT

“CLOSE HARMONY” Unusual interest attaches to the Paramount all-talking picture, “Close Harmony,” which is being presented daily at the New Regent Theatre, as it is the first talkie version of a musical comedy. Many elements have been deftly blended in the making of the film, which is an all-talking and singing comedy-romance, and is one of the most entertaining talkies released by Paramount. The film is interpreted by a large cast of well-known players, and abounds in witty dialogue, enjoyable vocal and instrumental numbers, and some exceptionally clever dancing. The principals are Nancy Carroll, who will be remembered for her fine performance in “The Shop-worn Angel,” and Charles Rogers, the popular male lead of “Wings.” In “Close Harmony” the two players are at their best, and are supported by a large cast, including Jack Oakie, “Skeets” Gallagher, and Harry Green. Tho story concerns two young stage artists, the girl a famous singer and dancer, and the boy a promising musician. Their adventures form the theme of the picture, which abounds in bright comedy, cleverly intermingled with romance. The remainder of the programme is equally entertaining. There are songs by Ruth Etting, the Columbia recording artist; some clever humour by Smith and Hale, two Jewish comedians; musical selections by Borrah Minevitch and his Harmonica Band; a gazette with full sound accompaniment: and, finally, Arthur G. Frost at the big Wurlitzer organ.