“MOROCCO” IS STORY OF HUMAN PASSIONS.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 76, 30 March 1931, Page 13

“MOROCCO” IS STORY OF HUMAN PASSIONS.

NEW EMOTIONAL ACTRESS TAKES LEADING ROLE.

“ Morocco.” which comes to Christchurch shortly, is a love story of imperishable vividness and exotic charm. It is a vital and fascinating film of human passion and conflict; of an overpowering love that sweeps a ruthless man and woman of the world into a mad, 'relentless maelstrom of desire.

“ Morocco ” is the story of a magnificent love beside which all other emotions seem petty and inconsequential. Behind the absorbing story of

“ Morocco ” is the fascination which is so ably created by the authentic atmosphere of the entire production. Paramount, and the director, Josef von Sternberg, have combined practical and imaginative sources to bring to life the colourful, shadowy mystery of Morocco, city of twisted, darkened streets, veiled, stealthy _ women, loud, swaggering Legionnaires; city of wretched, indescribable poverty, and incomparable glittering wealth and beauty. Such is the background of a great emotional story; oi a pulsing, human drama whose intensity of startling dramatic effects command and deserve attention. Seen in one of liis best roles, as a reckless and ruthless soldier of fortune, is Gary Cooper; master of the situation through the restraint and sincerity of his acting, Cooper creates a role that should win instant public favour. Also prominently cast in an important role in the picture is Adolphe Menjou, making an auspicious return to the audible screen. The leading feminine role is portrayed by an actress who has never been seen by the New Zealand theatregoing public. She is Marlene Dietrich, an ivory chiselled, fair-haired, exotic actress who achieved a startling triumph on the Berlin stage the past two years. A discovery of the director, v Qn Sternberg, this German actress who speaks without a trace of accent, is made to order for her role in “ Morocco.” Miss Dietrich is an unusual player. She is subtle, mysterious; she is soft spoken; her movements are graceful; she has been called one of the most beautiful women to come to the screen for some time. Marlene Dietrich is assuredly a name to watch.

Included in the strong supporting cast are Ulrich Haupt, Francis MacDonald, Albert Conti, Juliette Compton and Michael Visaroff.

** Morocco ” is an unusual picture, distinctive in treatment, fascinating in detail. It is a picture that deserves your attention.