JOHN BARRYMORE STARS IN “GENERAL CRACK.”

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19107, 27 June 1930, Page 5

JOHN BARRYMORE STARS IN “GENERAL CRACK.”

Christchurch theatregoers have something out of the ordinary to look forward to, when the most distinguished screen star, John Barrymore, whose voice has charmed two continents on the stage, speaks from the audible screen for the first time as the star of "General Crack,” Warner Bros.’s Vitaphone super all-talking photoplay, which will make its Dominion premiere showing at the New Opera House to-morrow. In addition to portraying the dashing title role of the mad Prince Christian, soldier and lover, in this vivid tale of romance ana adventure in eighteenth century Europe* Mr Barrymore contributes two other superb impersonations to the picture. In the prologue to the actual story he acts the part of his father, a doddering old soldier. Later in the film, he enacts the role of his father’s ghost who appears as a guiding influence in an important turning point in the story. Said to be his most fascinating characterisation, Barrymore as General Crack is seen as a storming individual in eternal conflict with his gypsy and his aristocratic traits, a man who becomes the dominant military figure of his time, as well as the greatest lover. The exceptional cast supporting John Barrymore, includes such favourites as Lowell Sherman, Marian Nixon, Armide. Hobart Bosworth, Jacqueline Logan, and many other popular stage and screen stars. Leading critics say that “General Crack” is John Barrymore’s best characterisation, which is saying a great deal for its excellence. The natural colour sequences are stated to be gorgeous. The box plans are now open at the Bristol.