CYRANO DE BERGERAC

Taranaki Daily News, 17 August 1935, Page 20 (Supplement)

CYRANO DE BERGERAC

COURAGEOUS INNOVATION. CHARLES LAUGHTON TO STAR. i The first film which Charles Laughton will make with London Film productions on his return -to England will be “Cyrano de Bergerac,” in which he will play the part of the poet-dualist. It will be adapted from the famous French play by Edmond Rostand. The role is one which Charles Laughton has been wanting to play for several years.

The important part of Tozane will be played by Penelope Dudley Ward, who is now under long-term contract to London Films. This will be her first leading role. The authors, who are at present at work on the English script, are Lajos Biro and Arthur. Wimperis, who it will be . remembered, were responsible, for “The Private Life of Henry VIII.,” Charles Laughton’s first starring vehicle for London Films. The -script is revolutionary in so far as it will be written in rhymed couplets, a courageous innovation which Alexander Korda wishes to use as a feeler for public reaction, and which, if favourable, will lead to his production of some of William Shakespeare’s most suitable plays for the screen.

Ralph Forbes, actor-husband. of Heather Angel, has been cast as the Duke of Buckingham in RKO Radio’s “The Three Musketeers.” Walter Abel, New York stage actor-won the coveted role of D’Artagnan.