AMUSEMENTS

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 19626, 21 October 1933, Page 21

AMUSEMENTS

“HELL BELOW.” THRILLING FILM AT MAJESTIC. “Hell Below,” the sensational submarine film which caused such widespread comment in America, is to open at the Majestic Theatre to-day, giving Timaru filmgoers a chance to see what is said to be the most thrilling marine spectacle to reach the screen. Robert Montgomery heads the cast of “Hell Below,” in what critics concede to be the outstanding role of his career. As the young lieutenant who falls hopelessly in love with a woman already married, he is precipitated into a stirring series of occurrences in which he disobeys the orders of his submarine commander in an effort to save his friend, adrift at sea, and a target for the guns of a squadron of airplanes; is dishonourably dismissed from the service after unwittingly causing the entire crew a narrow escape from a horrible death at the bottom of the ocean; and finally vindicates himself before both his commander and the woman he loves with an heroic gesture. Most of the exterior scenes in “Hell Below” were made on location near the United States naval base at Pearl Harbour in the Hawaiian Islands. The picture was filmed with the co-opera-tion of the United States Navy, with Commander Morris Gilmore, a retired naval officer, serving as technical adviser. Great care was taken by Commander Gilmore and several of his naval associates to insure complete accuracy in scenes showing the operation of submarines, the uses of antiaircraft guns, combats with depth bombs and battles between submarines and enemy vessels. Supports are said to be good. “IN A MONASTERY GARDEN.” PICTURESQUE FILM FOR REGENT. Hamberstone Wright, who will be remembered for his outstanding part in the early British epic “High Treason,” makes a successful re-appearance in “In a Monastery Garden,” the new British Dominions picture which will have its initial screenings at the Regent Theatre to-day. Many strange and beautiful subjects have been presented the movie patron, but up till now there has not been a film with so much love, life and laughter. Presented in an altogether unorthodox manner to that which our wildest expectations lead us to believe, this production has as its main theme the immortal melody that has thrilled millions with its music for many years. The soulful number, “In a Monastery Garden,” provides the haunting music which sets the film off at its most attractive angle, Joan Maude, who makes her talking picture debut, looks after the feminine interest in the production in a manner both convincing and true. Humberstone Wright, whose portrayal of the peace president in “High Treason” will te vividly remembered, is given a convincing role. Telling of brotherly sacrifice and devotion, with a background of human elements that take form to make up your very existence, the story is powerfully but beautifully unfolded, and reveals not physical beauties, but the most sacred thing on earth—love—not of that usual variety, but that brotherly love that one so rarely sees in films. An attractive array of short features has been arranged. THE THEATRE ROYAL. NEW STAR IN WESTERN PICTURE. Fast and furious action predominates in "Sundown Trail,” the western romance starring Tom Keene, showing to-day and to-night at the Theatre Royal. From the opening to the final fade-out, the pace is never allowed to lag, and there isn't a dull moment in the whole picture. Keene, as a western hero in this RKO Pathe production, has qualities which should make him the most popular of all cowboy stars. He is young, handsome, at home in the saddle and an actor of ability. The combination should prove irresistible. Supporting the stars are Marion Shilling and Nick Stuart. The story, a fast moving tale of a cowboy’s romance with his haughty but beautiful employer, is by Robert F. Hill, who also directed the picture and deserves plaudits for both efforts. Replete with thrills from magnificent riding and carefully built suspense, the picture also provides a feast for the eyes with the picturesque beauty of the Mojave desert providing the background for the action. The supporting programme will include a Mickey Mouse cartoon, comedy, and news reels, as well as “The Holdup,” chapter 5 of “Heroes of the West.” PLEASANT POINT TALKIES. “Frankenstein,” a weird story of a mechanical man, equipped with a criminal's brain, W'ho escapes and nearly murders his inventor, will head the programme at the Pleasant Point Talkies this evening. Boris Karloff plays the role of the monster, and John Boles and Mae Clarke have leading parts. Good supports will also be screened. A GREAT BRITISH DISCOVERY. As an outcome of Wells and Southcombe's work. Germ Oils are now displacing the mixtures of mineral and vegetab ) oils hitherto used as lubricants. To-day in Great Britain. “Germ'' Oils are used by leading Aviation Companies, Bus Companies, Transport Undertakings, Haulage Companies and County Councils. Leading Garages and Service Stations can supply "Germ” Oils which are distributed by the National Mortgage and Agency Co. of N.Z. Ltd. and Cecil Wood Co.. Ltd. .