“SHANGHAI MADNESS.”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 931, 29 November 1933, Page 3

“SHANGHAI MADNESS.”

Adventure and Romance in China. “ Her First Mate,” the latest Slim Summerville-Zasu Pitts comedy, and supporting programme, will conclude its season at the Majestic Theatre on Saturday night. A stirring tale of adventure and romance in disturbed China is lolcl in " Shanghai Madness.” which will open at the Majestic Theatre on Monday. The film, with its glimpses of a life far removed from humdrum every-day existence, provides splendid entertainment, and forms an ideal vehicle for the virile characterisations always associated with the name of Spencer Tracy, the principal. Acting honours, however, are equally shared by Fay Wray, who makes a charming heroine, Eugene Pallette in a typically bluff role, Herbert Mundin, whose part is full of dry humour, and Ralph Morgan, who makes a suave mandarin. At the time the story opens, Tracy, as Pat Jackson, has been dismissed from the United States Navy for an act of insubordination in opening fire on a bandits’ fort. Marooned in Shanghai and boycotted by the shipping companies, Jackson finds it impossible to gain a position, in spite of his long experience with the navy. A chance encounter with a headstrong young girl whose adventuring into the native quarters has involved her in a dangerous street riot, is the opening of a romance against which the embittered young man tries to fight, knowing the hopelessness of his future prospects. Wildeth Christie, impetuous and courageous, is willing, however, to risk anything for the sake of their friend-j ship, and when Jackson finally is given the post of gunner on a tramp steamer engaged in rifle-running, she smuggles herself on board. Jackson’s gun proves to be nothing more nor less than an army field gun, mounted on the afterdock. The adventures of the little vessel as it makes its way up the river, running the gauntlet of warring factions, form a thrilling series of episodes which culminate in a daring and brilliant exploit by Jackson. Box plans at The Bristol.