“AFTER THE BALL.”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20234, 19 February 1934, Page 3

“AFTER THE BALL.”

Excellent British Comedy at Civic. “ After the Ball,” which began at the Civic Theatre on Saturday, is a picture which is likely to set all Christchurch laughing, for it is one of the best English comedies seen here for some time. It is a wonder that a motion picture producer has not, ere this, seized on the doings of the League of Nations at Geneva as a subject. In such a cosmopolitan atmosphere, there is room for half a dozen plots. Probably, in view of the success of “ After the Ball,” there will be more films located in this centre, which offers such great opportunities. “ After the Ball ” is a farce and a satire, and a delightful one at that. -The story concerns a young King’s Messenger who neglects his business while he carries on a romance, notwithstanding the fact that half the chancelleries of Europe are in despair at the absence of the important documents which have been placed in his care. In the long run, he reaches Geneva, and once more he allows his heart to control his head and gets mixed up in a flirtation with the wife of a diplomat. Unfortunately for him. he loses a seal. Hence, the signing of an important treaty is delayed. The excellent cast includes Esther Ralston, Basil Rathbone, Clifford Hatherley and Mane Burke, who give between them a performance that is delightful. Marie Burke will be remembered for her success in musical comedy work in Christchurch some years ago, and she is as good on the screen as she was on the stage. She has the part of the diplomat’s wife and gives a charming characterisation. Esther Ralston is excellent as the wife who has been neglected by her husband, who is too deeply immersed in diplomatic affairs. Basil Rathbone can always be depended on for a fine performance and he does not fail on this occasion. Clifford Hatherley is cast as another diplomat and he is delightful. Included in the excellent supporting programme are pictures of the historic gathering at Waitangi, where 8000 natives assembled to do honour to the Governor-General, Lord Bledisloe, for his gift of the Waitangi site to the nation.