BRITISH COMEDY.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 941, 11 December 1933, Page 3

BRITISH COMEDY.

Sydney Howard Featured in “ It’s a King.” Sydney Howard, England’s king of farcical comedy, adds new laurels to his crown in “ It’s a King,” the main attraction at the Civic Theatre this week. This British Dominions picture has been accorded a wonderful reception wherever it has been shown, and the reason for its popularity will be obvious to all those who see the film. Sydney Howard has just that type of role which suits his talents and individuality. Having a full knowledge of his capabilities and possible limitations, the authors evolved a story to which the actor’s whimsicalities would bring some semblance of possibility. Herein lies tlie secret of the film’s success. ” It’s a King ” is a happv farce, which shows Sydney Howard first as an insurance agent, Albert King, and then as Albert, King of Helgia, when, by the confusion of identities, he is mistaken for Royalty and installed in regal state. Here Howard is provided with a great opportunity for displaying the guileless innocence and bland drollery which combine to make him such a distinctive and popular comedian. The dual identity role fits him like a glove, and when Albert finds himself mistaken for the King of Helgia. riotously funny entertainment follows. While the story is farcical beyond words and counts for little, it enables a great actor to delight an audience and, after all. that is one of the main reasons why people go to the theatre. Playing opposite the star is a fascinating young lady who is making her screen debut after a long stage experience—Joan Maude. She takes the part of the sinuous Princess Yasma, whose subtle charms lend added zest to the production. Her performance has attracted widespread comment, and augurs well for her future in screen work. She has had eleven years’ experience on the London stage. Cecil Humphries and George de Warfaz give good characterisations as court officials and Arthur Gouilet makes a short but clever appearance as a revolutionary leader. There is a good supporting programme of scenic and educational ” shorts.”