SENSATIONAL DRAMA.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 940, 9 December 1933, Page 24 (Supplement)

SENSATIONAL DRAMA.

Popular Herbert Marshall in “ Solitaire Man.” Herbert Marshall, talented English actor, heads the strong cast featured in “The Solitaire Man," a startling drama concerning the activities of Continental super-crooks, which began at the Regent Theatre to-day. The casting of Marshall in another role as a sophisticated “ gentleman crook ’’ brings him to the screen in a picture that has all the appeal of “ Trouble in Paradise.” The added drama of a great story by Bella and Samuel Spewack provides a thrilling basis for the action. In the Spewack play every character's life is involved with that of the “ Solitaire Man.” When they finally meet in the cabin of a passenger plane crossing the English Channel a situation arises that has scarcely been equalled on the screen. Tne climax is a breathless defiance of death. Marshall’s role is that of a man who is driven to desperate measures through the loss of a fortune in the Great' War. Supposedly a rich jewel merchant, he is really disposing of valuables obtained during nightly expeditions among Europeans and Americans on the Continent. In the feminine romantic lead Elizabeth Allan has the most dramatic role of her career, and comedy highlights are provided by Mary Boland, the popular comedienne. Her role is blended into the drama to provide relief for the tension of the climax. Lionel Atwill, screen "terror” of many good pictures, has a role of " double menace.” As a police informer he betrays Marshall while trying to steal jewels himself. Dignity and convincing aristocratic atmosphere are provided by May Robson, who appeal's as a broken-down member of English society trying to make a living disposing of jewels as " family heirlooms.” Also featured prominently in the cast are Ralph Forbes, Lucille Gleason and Robert M’Wade. Box; plans at The Bristol, 1