GRAND THEATRE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17346, 10 May 1924, Page 22

GRAND THEATRE.

*«VENUS OF THE SOUTH SEAS” AND “MY WILD IRISH ROSE.” There has been so much talk and •peculation about “Venus of the South Seas” which was made in New Zealand that it would indeed be unnatural if every resident in the Dominion did not wish to view a film which, it is declared has brought ‘‘God’s Own Country” into world-wide prominance. There will be an opportunity of seeing this wonderful picture at the Grand Theatre. Included in the many places of interest showr. on the screen and forming the backgrounds for a beautiful romance, are Wellington seaside resorts, some of the lovely bays around Nelson, parts the Marlborough Sounds and many well-known spots in Canterbury. Patrons will have the opportunity of recognising a number of places of interest to Christchurch audiences, namely, the road to Akaroa, Mona Yalo the beautiful residence of the late Mrs Townsend, and many more. Annette Kellerman is at her best in ‘‘Venus of the South Seas.” She plays the part of an island maiden who is an expert diver and swimmer. She hunts pearls at the bottom of the ocean, sometimes struggling with enraged native pearl thieves. The picture is full of thrilling incidents and Miss Kellerman does the finest work of bar career. Her display of diving and swimming is unsurpassed, while her underwater work is marvellous. Miss Kellerman is supported by a specially selected cast, and no expense or trouble has been spared for this production. “My Wild Irish Rose” will be the second attraction. It tells a thrilling story of life in the Emerald Tsle in the early days of Queen Victoria’s reign. “My Wild Irish Rose” was adapted from the famous old stage success, “The Shaughraun ” by Dion Boucicault. The plot is an absorbing one : there are spies, informers, “redcoats” and pretty Irish colleens galore —and in addition there are three love stories, three heroes ruid three heroines. The picture ha.-:, beeu lavishly produced under the skilful direction of David Smith, who has brought out all the picturesqueness and old-world charm wdiich is inherent in the subject and has made “My Wild Irish Rose” a masterpiece of colourful atmosphere. The all-star cist includes Pat O’Malley, Helen Howard. Mantle Emery, Pauline Starke and little Richard Daniels, “the champion freckled hoy” of the screen.