EXCELLENT COMEDY SHOWING AT LIBERTY

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19046, 15 April 1930, Page 7

EXCELLENT COMEDY SHOWING AT LIBERTY

Pin . fforts of a young couple to advancr.- themselves in the social and business world is the theme of “Skinner Steps Out.” an excellent all-talking * oraedy which heads the programme at the Liberty Theatre this week. William Skinner's charming wife believes that her husband is a wonderful man, and is most ambitious for liis success. He plays up to his wife's idea of him and tells her of his importance at the dice, where in reality lie is a most insignificant personage. The energetic Mrs Skinner forces her husband to tnke part in a charity bazaar, and to join a select country club, and he, in fear and trembling, is compelled to gratify his wife’s belief in him. Fired with selfconfidence and aggressiveness. Skinner attracts the attention of influential people, and the way is opened to sucThe picture is based on one of Henry Irving Dodge's popular “ Skinner ” stories. The success of the picture can be attributed to the genuinely amusing nature of the story and to the excellent acting. Glen Tryon, as Skinner, reaches new heights as a comedian. In the scenes where he asks the manager for an increase of pay and in which he leads the orchestra and conducts an auction at a charity bazaar are screamingly funny. Tryon has a flair for comedy work, and his role in “ Skinner Steps Out ” is admirably suited to his talents. Merna Kennedy plays the part of the adoring young wife with great success, and the supporting players have been well chosen for the picture. Also entertaining is the second attractiop. “ To-night at Twelve,” which has been adapted from* the stage play in a very skilful manner. The plot revolves about the discovery by a jealous wife! of a note written by her husband. The note simply says “ To-night at twelve,” and the wife, suspecting her husband of having written it to another woman, accuses three women—all friends of hers —and complications set in. The plot, is worked out in an unusual manner, with the outcome always a thing of doubt. An impressive cast includes Madge Bellamy, Robert Ellis, George Lewis, Vera Reynolds, Hallam Cooley, and others. Of particular interest to New Zealanders in the Fox Movietone News is a talk from Sydney by “ Wizard ” Smith, the famous racing motorist.