NOTABLE TALKIE.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 735, 12 April 1933, Page 4

NOTABLE TALKIE.

Barrymores in “ Rasputin and the Empress.” “The Son-Daughter.” a drama in which Helen Hayes and Ramon Novarro Rive impressive performances, will be shown at the Regent Theatre for the last time to-morrow night. “ Rasputin and the Empress,” M.-G—M.’s sensational drama of the fall of the Romanoffs, with John, Ethel and Lionel Barrymore together on the talking screen for the first time, will be the headline attraction at the Regent Theatre on Saturday. Based on happenings within the memory of the

present generation, thi fi’m’s episodes of the most colourful royal court in the world thus including the spectacle of a “period” picture while still remaining strictly a modern story. Ethel Barrymore plays the Empress, John is cast as Prince Ohegodieff, and Lionel essays the role of the “Holy Devil” in t h i s sensational

. talking picture version of the downfall of the Russian Empire and the rise ot the Bolshevik regime. In every case, perfect makeup makes the characters exact replicas of the originals. Hundreds appear in the great throne-room scene, the cathedral episode and other incidents Intense dramatic material is contained in the hypnotising of the little prince by Rasputin, in his intrigues and orgies and in the vengeance of the nobles after his machinations have sent the empire on its way to ruin. The cast in support of the Barrymores includes Ralph Morgan, Diana Wynyard and Tad Alexander. Box plans at The Brisrol