ROMANCE AND MUSIC

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 19374, 24 December 1932, Page 19

ROMANCE AND MUSIC

“MAID OF THE MOUNTAINS.” It is not often that Timaru enjoys the distinction of the premiere release of a big film, but picture-goers will have the pleasure at the Majestic this afternoon and this evening of seeing the first screening in New Zealand of British International Pictures finest production, “The Maid of the Mountains.” A private “view” was held yesterday afternoon, and those who were privileged to be present witnessed a production which will long be remembered for its beautiful mounting, outstanding photography, and enjoyable music. “The Maid of the Mountains” was made famous in England by Jose Collins, and in Australia and New Zealand by Gladys Moncrieff and Sheila Gale, the latter taking the title role after the former had returned to Australia. The film version retains all the tuneful melodies of the play, and in addition there is running through the production the full incidental score which play-goers found so acceptable when the play was produced here. British producers have excelled themselves in the settings. and it is doubtful if a more artistically mounted film has ever been produced in England. As might be expected, the film version differs somewhat from the stage production, but the story loses none of its beauty. If anything, its attractiveness is enhanced, and the producers have been able to do greater justice to Frederick Lonsdale’s brilliant wit. One has only to call to mind the lilting strains of “Love Will Find a Way,” “Bachelor Gay,” “Paradise for Two,” and “Live for To-day” to conjure up visions of pleasurable entertainment, and “Maid of the Mountains” certainly comes in this category. The scenes in the brigands’ stronghold on the mountain side and the magnificent ballroom are only matched in splendour by the banqueting hall, where the guests, seated at a long table, honour the new Governor. The show is very strong on the comedy side. Featured players are Nancy Brown and Harry Welchman, who sing all the solos, Gus McNaughton, Wallace Lupino and Betty Stockfiield.