CINEMA PROGRAMMES

Taranaki Daily News, 10 April 1935, Page 3

CINEMA PROGRAMMES

STATE THEATRE. “FIRST WORLD WAR” TO-DAY. . Its every scene described as “a living newspaper headline” by those who have previewed “The First World War,” this history-making Fox Film presentation is scheduled for showing at the State Theatre to-day. “The First World War,” to judge from advance accounts, is by far the most notable film symposium yet created on its subjects. It includes, secret films from the archives of every nation—most of them never before revealed to the public. The picture was edited by Laurence Stallings, who also prepared the sensationally successful book of the same title. The well-known actor, Pedro de Cordoba, delivers Laurence Smallings’ brilliant comment. The most thrilling and breath-taking shots ever made in the heat of battle—either on land or sea—are included in “The First World War,” it is stated. Close-up shots of hand-to-hand trench warfare are varied with enthralling aeroplane sequences, showing in detail the critical conflicts of the World War. The more “human” side of the great holocaust is not overlooked. Intimate views of Europe’s royal families—including rare and never-before screened sequences of the Prince of Wales’ childhood, are many and l varied. Likewise the average citizens of the years 19141918 are seen in their diverse activities, at home and in the field. Among the more notable sequences depicting royalty are intimate views of Rasputin with,the Russian royal family; the marriage of the Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose subsequent death precipitated the war; and many unique glimpses of the Kaiser in the years when he was building up his mammoth war machine. Box plans are at and at the theatre.

NEW PLYMOUTH OPERA HOUSE.

“MY OLD DUTCH” TO-DAY. Cherished memories of the glamour and fascination of the old-time music halls will be revived' by the comedydrama, “My Old Dutch,” which will have its initial presentation at the New Plymouth" Opera House to-day at 2 and 8 p.m. Aptly described as a “Cockney Cavalcade,” the story is basically a 1 pageant of the comedy and pathos in the life led by the simple and homely working class of England. The film covers a period of over 40 years and traces the History -of a single family with their joys and tribulations, .their sturdy independence and their belief in the silver lining to the darkest clouds. Their varying emotions will reach the heart of the audience if only for their naturalness and the lack of the glittering and tawdry veil of sophistication. The unfailing philosophy and broad humour of the Cockney are admirably recaptured and the happy and carefree pre-war days are seen in all their glory. The leading parts are taken by the vivacious Betty Balfour, who is seen in. the title role, Michael Hogan, who enacts the part of the coster husband, and by Gordon Harker, who gives yet another of his inimitable character sketches, as the family’s best friend. Frank Pettingell and that noted musichall artiste, Florrie Forde, make all too brief appearances as typical costers. Admirable in conception, skilfully directed and brilliantly acted!, “My Old Dutch” deserves the fullest measure of popular success. It is wholesome, hearty entertainment of outstanding quality. . The supporting programme is varied and entertaining and includes “Window Pains” (Ideal Cinemagazine, “Gaumont Mirror” and Gaumont British News Reels.

EVERYBODY’S TO-DAY.

“HAPPINESS AHEAD.” The call for new faces on the screen is answered by First National Pictures in a big way in “Happiness Ahead,” which comes to Everybody’s Theatre today at 2 and 8 p.m. The leading woman, playing opposite Dick Powell, is Josephine Hutchinson. She is a newcomer to Hollywood. Her previous experience was entirely on the stage. With the New York Civic Repertory theatre, she created many roles including that of “Alice in Wonderland.” Other new faces in the picture are Margaret Carthew, Louise Seidel, Avis St. John, Rosalie Roy and Fres Lee, five beautiful girls of decided talent. Next in importance to the leading role is the part of Josie, played by Dorothy Dare, formerly of the New York musical comedy stage. Miss Dare is a charming and vivacious girl, who in addition to her acting opportunities in her first picture will sing one of the song hits, “All on Account of-a Strawberry Sundae.” The picture is a thrilling romance with special musical numbers and spiced with comedy. It is based on the story by Harry Sauber who collaborated on the screen play with Brian Marlow. Other important players in the cast include John Halliday, Frank McHugh, Allen Jenkins, Ruth Donnelly and Marjorie Gateson. Mervyn Leroy directed the production. The associate programme is good and includes Cinesound Review, “Shuffle to Buffalo” (melody cartoon), “It’s a Panic” (melody master) and “Believe It or Not” (novelty).

THE REGENT.

“PRIVATE LIFE OF DON JUAN.” At least six months’ preliminary preparation was expended on the new London Film Production, “The Private Life of Don Juan,” before active production was started. This film, the most ambitious yet attempted by London Films, stars Douglas Fairbanks, senr., and is directed by Alexander Korda. “The Private Life of Don Juan,” which begins at the Regent to-night, is a satirical romantic drama with an extremely brilliant and unusual plot based on the later life of the famous Spanish romantic hero. Douglas Fairbanks is supported by a great cast which includes Merle Oberon, whose comparatively small part in “The Private Life of .Henry VIII.” caused unstinted praise from the world’s film critics; and Benita Hume, who played in Alexander Korda's “Service for Ladies” before leaving for Hollywood. Binnie Barnes, Diana Napier and Joan Gardner also play important parts. The film is remarkable for the beauty of its settings in the Spanish style, designed by Vincent Korda, who made a tour of Spain in order to collect authentic material for the film. His settings in “Henry VIII.” and “Catherine the Great” set a new standard in film decoration. The costumes of “The Private Life of Don Juan” are from original designs by the brilliant young stage designer, Oliver Messel. Incidental music and singing as well as traditional Spanish dancing add a colourful background to a perfect screen entertainment. The supporting features include Universal News, “Sing for Fun” (organlogue), “At a Country Fair” (organlogue), Screen Snapshots and “Orphan's Benefit” (Mickey Mouse cartoon) .