MATRIMONIAL MIX-UP

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 519, 30 July 1932, Page 25 (Supplement)

MATRIMONIAL MIX-UP

“ Private Lives,” with Norma Shearer, at Regent.

“ Private Lives,” a delicious, sophisticated comedy of modern people, by modern people, for modern people, heads the programme at the Regent Theatre. Every picture-goer will revel in its piquant humour, its cheeky wit, and all the ingredients that make it a polished production. In this Metro-(Joldwyn-Mayer talking picture version of the Noel COward stage success, the beautiful Norma Shearer and Robert Montgomery exhibit a multitude of reasons why married folk should fight and—more important still—make: up.

One critic writes: “Beyond all doubt it is the most satisfying film in which Norma Shearer has yet appeared; the cold sparkle of the sarcasm is perfectly matched by her sharp beauty. ‘ Private Lives ’ triumphs through its own exuberance; it is a gulp of sparkling wine.”

It would be hard to imagine a more brilliant presentation of such material. The settings and photography are flawless, the acting so good that it becomes transformed from acting to living, and is in danger of being overlooked on that count alone. Besides Norma Shearer and Robert Montgomery, Reginald Denny, Una Merkel and Jean Hersholt share in the general fireworks. Robert Montgomery excels himself. Denny has a subdued role, but shows once again what an excellent actor he can be.

“ Private Lives ” is an intimate glimpse at a honeymoon foursome. A charming She and a fascinating He have quarrelled their way into a divorce court, and have become married again —to different people. They meet on their separate honeymoons, discover they still love each other, and elope together, only to begin quarrelling afresh.

In addition, a Grantland Rico Sportlight, “ Athletic Daze,” showing Olympic Games champions at work is being screened. Box plans at The Bristol.