FINE ENTERTAINMENT

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

FINE ENTERTAINMENT

Joan Bennett Stars in “ Trial of Vivienne Ware.” Wheeler and Woolsey’s latest comedy, “ Girl Crazy,” will be shown at the Majestic Theatre for the last time to-night. “ The Trial of Vivienne Ware,” starring Joan Bennett, the thrilling radio drama which will be screened at the Majestic Theatre on Monday, is exceptionally flue entertainment, and touches every human emotion. A startling story has been combined with a splendid cast, with the result that a picture out of the ordinary has been evolved. “ The Trial of Vivienne Ware ” is an entirely logical and powerful story of the far-reaching possibilities of circumstantial evidence. In many respects the fictional story revealed in this Fox murder mystery drama parallels some of the famous murder cases in history. In no case, however, have the facts been so evenly balanced. The balance between guilty and not guilty is sustained up to the very end of the trial. The story concerns a beautiful society girl who finds herself on trial for the murder of a millionaire architect who had been her fiance.

Joan Bennett demonstrates her exceptional ability as a dramatic actress in the role of the prosecuted girl. She gives a vivid and convincing portrayal, one that leaves a lasting impression.

As the hard-boiled district attorney, Allan Dinehart is perfectly cast. His work is an outstanding feature of the production. Donald Cook, as the attorney for the deferice, is natural and convincing, and Lilian Bond, in the role of the night club entertainer, is appealing to teye and ear. Others contributing to the success of the picture arc Howard Phillips, William Pawley, Ruth Selwyn, Noel Madison and Christian Rub.

Comedy roles are played by Zasu Pitts. Herbert Mundin, Slceets Gallagher and Maude Eburne. Especially amusing is the British actor,' Mundin, last seen as the comical taxi driver 1© ” The Silent Witness ” and the valet in “ The Devil’s Lottery.”

“ The Trial of Vivienne "Ware ” has everything that makes for gripping, thrilling, rousing entertainment. It touches every human emotion. In addition, the Majestic will screen the screamingly funny all-British comedy feature “Double Dealing,” starring Frank Pettingall, the famous London comedian. Box plans at The Bristol.