“PHANTOM PRESIDENT”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 757, 10 May 1933, Page 3

“PHANTOM PRESIDENT”

Majestic Offers Clever Burlesque.

“The Phantom President." a rollicking burlesque, heads the current programme at the Majestic Theatre. It accentuates the laughable features of an American Presidential election to a degree where it becomes delightful nonsense. George M. Cohan, actor and producer. makes his talking picture debut in this film, and he could have no more favourable introduction to the public. He plays a dual part, always a difficult task, and succeeds in conveying- the impression of two distinct and contrasting personalities most convincingly. The star is cast as a cheapjack showman—bubbling over with humour and personality. His other part is that of a serious-minded business man—smug, complacent and hopelessly dull. The two men are the complement of each other. One -supplies the charm of manner in which the other is so lacking, and the second supplies the name, birth, position and financial ability. How they use this combination of qualities makes a story that never flags and is full- of laughs. George Cohan is supported in the film by Jimmy Durante, a clever comedian, whose antics' are always amusing. The feminine lead is taken by Claudette Colbert, who gives a clever performance as the ” President’s ’’ fiancee. A strong supporting programme includes a “Betty Roop' ” cartoon, a clever comedy, and a newsreel. Animal Circus. At the Majestic Theatre this week a featured attraction at the matinees only is the appearance of Captain Clancy's Animal Circus, which has been specially engaged for the school holidays. The circus includes fifteen performing monkeys and dogs, and is proving immensely popular with the children. A full picture programme is screened, in addition to this wonderful attraction.