ZANE GREY STORY AT QUEEN’S THEATRE ON MONDAY NEXT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18009, 20 November 1926, Page 6

ZANE GREY STORY AT QUEEN’S THEATRE ON MONDAY NEXT.

" CODE OF THE WEST ” AND “ A BOY OF FLANDERS.” A. Zane Grey production heads the programme at the Queen's Theatre next week, “Code of the West,” which stars Constance Bennett and Owen Moore. Having everything of the typical Zane Grey tale, tense drama, dry humour and daring, reckless thrills, this picture combines a story of intense human interest—the very interesting conflict between primitive man and a carefully nurtured woman. It introduces, perhaps unconsciously, the question of what happens when an irresistible force meets an immovable body. The popular novelist, naturally, blithely solves the scientific problem by the judicious application of a littlo sentiment, and immediately the one is no longer irresistible, the other no longer immovable. An admirable story, with something wholly new to it, something that makes it an infinitely superior Western drama. There are moments of wild melodrama in the story, but every incident is well connected, and the acting is at all times of the highest order. Owen Moore surpassed himself in this picture, and plays a well-known character with pleasing finish. The inimitable Noah Beery enacts a congenial role. Second on the programme is a screen version of Ouida’s immortal classic, “A Dog of Flanders,” under the title of “ A Boy of Flanders,” starring Jackie Coogan. Beautiful in its conception, brilliant in its handling, poignant and humorous by turns, this moving and stirring story is an ideal vehicle for the particular genius of this young star. It is one of the finest tales in literature, and translated to the screen is just as soul-stirring and faithful as the actual book. Jackie Coogan puts some of his cleverest work into this picture, which is a Hincere reproduction of the celebrated novel. Teddy, a Great Dane, plays the lovable Petrasche of the story, and performs with a sagacity and appeal that are marvellous. The box plans are at Webley's, where seats may be reserved.