FINE BRITISH FILM.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 935, 4 December 1933, Page 3

FINE BRITISH FILM.

Crystal Palace Offers “ The Golden Cage.” Hotel life has formed the theme of several pictures, hut never has it been interpreted so brilliantly as in “ The Golden Cage,” the British production which began at the Crystal Palace Theatre on Saturday. Tne story *s the work of Pamela Prank a u and D. B. IVyndham Lewis, who have adapted the clever novel by Lady Troubridge. “ The Golden Cage ” is one of the first pictures to come from the studios of Sound City, an independent producing unit which has already made several fine films. It gives evidence that in a short time British productions will challenge Hollywood’s best. The picture abounds in sparkling comedy, while the dialogue is polished, and really witty on occasions. There are several amusing character studies, and the story has its dramatic moments. The cast, with the exception of Anne Grey, is new to screen audiences, but each member gives a polished performance, and shows that British producers can draw upon vast reserves of screen talent. Anthony Kimmins brings a new type of hero to the screen a 3 a debonair reception clerk in a London “ luxury ” hotel. He is both grave and gay when dealing with the wealthy tourists, who are guests at the hotel. The womenfolk all depend upon Mr Mortimer to attend to their wants, and most of these are just an excuse to admire his good looks. Although he secretly hates having to pocket his pride, and accept tips, Mortimer, who has known better days, is kind and considerate to every guest, including old ladies. But when lovely Anne drey arrives at the hotel there is a different tale to tell. She plays the part of Lady Doxford, w T ho bad given up love in a cottage for life in a •• golden cage ” with Sir Andrew Boxford. Mortimer finds that lie still loves his former sweetheart, ar.d the two are going to Kenya together when Mortimer loses his money buying certain shares. Lady Doxford has made up her mind that she cannot face life without a first-class ticket. when a hotel guest, to whom Mortimer had been polite. dies and leaves him £IBO,OOO. The story has a surprising climax. In th esupporting cast are Jillian Sand as the typist, Mackenzie Ward, who gives a brilliant performance as a dude friend of Mortimer, and Frank Collier. Another Sound City production, “ Taking Ways,” is included in the programme of “shorts.” There is .Iso an amusing picture showing Mie . Paris of thirty years ago.