LIBERTY THEATRE

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16987, 10 March 1923, Page 8 (Supplement)

LIBERTY THEATRE

RICH MEN’S WIVES. A story rich in human appeal, settings rich and in good taste, a caste rich in talent and feminine beauty are tho outstanding characteristics of “ Rich Men’s Wives,” a “ Preferred ” picture, which opens to-day at th© Liberty Theatre. In many ways this is one of the most unusual screen dramas that has been seen here in many a day, and Gasnier, the producer who attained such artistic heights in making “ Kismet,” is to bo commended for giving to picture lovers what may, in all legitimacy, bo termed an exceptional entertainment. While the story turns tho searchlight on the follies of

the idle rich, it nevertheless shows deep understanding and sympathy for tho unfortunate girls who are born, bred and imprisoned in gilded cages. A cast of extraordinary quality has been selected for the interpretation of the story, and therein the creators of the picture display their wisdom, for the roles are so trying they could easily have been ruined by inferior acting. House Peters, who seems to be always in demand by producers seeking the “ he-man ” type of artist, has the leading masculine role, and Claire Windsor, one of the most beautiful women on the screen, plays opposite him. Then there is Baby Richard Hedrick, the screen’s most- wonderful child ; Gaston Glass, the unforgettable hero of “ Humouresque.” Rosemary Theby, Myrtle Steadman, ’ and Carol Holloway, beauties and stars in their own right. “Rich Men’s Wives” seems to be an earnest demonstration of the promise picture builders have made of “bigger and better” productions. Those responsible for it have taken four basic elements of good entertainment—a good story, which after all is the principal thing; an intelligent and capable cast, a fine director, and suitable settings. The last-named are worthy of comment. As would be expected in a play of this type, the interiors are rich and convincing, but there is a better display of taste than is usual in pictures. Fine motor-cars and scenes from a real horse show figure prominently in the “ atmospheric ” phases and lend realism to the entire production. “ Rich Men’s Wives ” is a splendid entertainment and will appeal especially to all women A special Mermaid comedy featuring Lloyd Hamilton in The Adviser.” a i Christie comedy. “ Fair Enough.” the j latest Pa the Gazette a-nd Topical Bud- ! get will comprise the supports. A I special musical programme will be ren- ) dered by the Liberty Grand Orchestra under the conductorship of Mr Arthur Gordon. The box plans are now open at The Bristol Piano Co.