GRAND THEATRE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17230, 22 December 1923, Page 3 (Supplement)

GRAND THEATRE.

“THE KID” AND “BLACK BEAUTY.” An old favourite commences at the Grand to-day in “ The Kid,” with J&cky Coogan and the inimitable Charlie Chaplin. Although many picture patrons in this city have seen these two wizards of the screen in “The Kid ” when it was here before, a big percentage of them will want to see it again. Apicture that harmonises with the gaiety and all pervading joyful spirit of Christmas, it can be witnessed by old and young alike. Nothing further need be said of either Chaplin or Coogan, for everyone knows them well, but in their respective roles in “ The Kid,* in which both appear at their best, they have been universally acclaimed as the screen’s favourite comedians. Tho six reels of joy in “ The Kid ’ were written and directed by Chaplin himself. His own part in the production, although hum ourous, is at times semi-dramatic, and in these moments he succeeds in gaining sympathy as well as laugns. Because of the vein of pathos which runs throughout, the unusual comody talent of Chaplin stands out stronger and more joyous than ever. Jackie Coogan, who played “ Oliver Twist” in that immortal work of Dickens, is more lovable in tho role of the urchin whom Chaplin fathers. A picture suiting well tho spirit of the holiday season, and which is rather unique; in that it is the onty one of its kind is also screening. This is “ Black Beauty,” adapted for the screen from Anna Sewell’s masterpiece of tho same name. Black Beauty is the most famous norse in the world’s history of literature, but tho training of a horse to act witnin a given period was the task that the directors of this production had to face and ultimately overcame, and the splendid result obtained in “Black Beauty” fully justifies air the thought, energy and time expended in its accomplishment. The entire West was scoured for the proper type of horses. The success of the picture rested as much on the proper selection of the animals as on those of the human actors, as any of the millions who have read the book would i saV. Black Beauty must be filmed at three different stages in his career Therefore a small colt, a yearling and a four-year-old—all blooded animals—had to be obtained to carry tho parts. All are beautiful animals, and the grown horse is one well calculated to play the role and win the sympathy necessary to its successful portrayal. A notable ?nd well balanced cast has been selected. Jean Paige, who has won a large following ‘of admirers in Vitagraph productions, is ideal as Jessie Gordon, the squire’s daughter, about whom the human part of the story revolves. Jimmy Morrison appears opposite Miss Paige, in the role of the vicar’s son. These two are supported by a long list of capable performers. A 6trong supporting programme is also shown. Box plans are now open at The Bristol or at the theatre.