FASCINATING FILM TO BE SCREENED AT CIVIC THEATRE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18804, 5 July 1929, Page 6

FASCINATING FILM TO BE SCREENED AT CIVIC THEATRE.

The motion picture lias given the world some wonderful productions that have dealt with all periods from the heyday of tVte Romans down to the present time. It is questionable, however, whether anything: quite so appealing as r>. W. Griffith’s latest effort has ever been so convincingly moulded for modern minds. This is “ The Battle of the Sexes,” which commences a season at the Civic Theatre next Monday. It is a story dealing exclusively with life as it is lived to-day, and one, it is said, that will knock at the doors of many modern homes. It is taken from the story by Dr D. Goodman, and is the work of that master craftsman, D. W. Griffith, whose genius had done more to promote the modern kinema than any other living director. Mr Griffith in his latest picture has for once departed font the spectacular features so often associated with his productions in favour of a very modern ancU.frankly told story. It is more than a mere triangle, rather a fiercely sustained struggle as biting as the dull venom of a cobra, a problem sweepingly poignant and devastating in its realism. It is a vivid crosssection of family life dramatised with the vision, realism and understanding that only Griffith is capable of picturing to perfection. As usual, perfection has been achieved in the selecting of types. As the wandering husband, Jean Horsholt handles a rather unsympathetic part with rare artistry, as do«e Belle Bennett in the role of the too trusting wife. The voluptuous, tempting, bewitching vampire whose portrayal will explain the weakness of gentlemen for blondes, is admirably characterised by the fascinating Phyllis Haver: while Sally O’Neill, as the daughter who fights like fury for home and father, gets every ounce out of a part that bristles with dramatic touches. Don Alvarado as the man about town, in league with the scheming blonde, makes the perfect modern Beau Brummel. In addition to this outstanding attraction, Buster Keaton will be seen in his latest picture, “ Steamboat Bill Jun.” Keaton is associated with Ernest Torrence in one of the funniest comedies of the year. Two United Artists specials on the one programme at the Civic, commencing on Monday, provide a wonderful appeal to Christchurch picture-goers.