MAGNIFICENT FILM.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 940, 9 December 1933, Page 25 (Supplement)

MAGNIFICENT FILM.

“ Squatter’s Daughter ” is Australia’s Best Yet. “ The Squatter's Daughter,” which has been hailed in Australia as the greatest, talking picture yet produced in the Commonwealth. is the headline attraction at the Plaza Theatre today. Essentially Australian in theme and setting, it is a worthy successor to the previous Australian film, “On Our Selection,” which enjoyed a successful season in Christchurch. It is a picture of which the producers, Cinesound Productions, Ltd., have every reason to be proud. Famed for his photography, Captain Frank Hurley has achieved a triumph in this production, and the long series of magnificent Australian landscapes through which the story moves indicate that the camera has been regarded as a prime factor in the making of this superb film. Nearly all the action is recorded out-of-doors, the interior scenes being comparatively few, a, fact that more than emphasises the unremitting attention that has been given to the scenic settings. OutstamL ing among the impressive rural scenes in the back country of Australia are the numberous views of great mobs of sheep in well-selected and picturesque landscapes, while some bush fire scenes are remarkably well done, conveying a realistic and awe-inspiring impression. The story is woven round two neighbouring farm stations, Waratali and Enderby, where, during the absence overseas of “ Ironbark ” Sherington, of Waratah. his son, and the rascally manager attempt to drive the owners of Enderby, Joan Enderby and her lame brother, Jim, from their holding. The feud develops with interest, the Enderbys fighting a losing battle, until they are assisted by a mysterious stranger, Wayne Ridgeway, whom Joan finds injured on her property. Jocelyn Howarth, an Australian newcomer - to the screen, takes the honours in the leading role, her winning and natural manner being charming; she should establish a reputation by her work in this film. The role of the stranger is ably portrayed by Grant Lyndsay, who will b* remembered for his performance as Sandy in *‘ On Our Selection.” A strong and accomplished supporting cast includes Owen Ainley, W. Lane-Bavliff, John Warwick, Les Warton and Fred MacDonald.