“LADY FOR A DAY.”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20281, 16 April 1934, Page 3

“LADY FOR A DAY.”

May Robson Scores Triumph in Striking Film. Lady for a Day, ’ which began at j the Regent Theatre on Saturdav, will not fail to please all types of theatregoers, for it contains a message seldom lound in the usual run of firms. With a theme of mother-love, it might have been thought that the picture bordered on the sentimental, but this does not prove to be the case. Any scene where pathos necessarily has to come in has been treated in a delicate manner. and the beholder is left with the impression that he or she is the better for it. May Robson, the talented Australian actress, scores a veritable triumph as “ Apple Annie,” addicted to drink, and keeping her daughter Louise (Jean Parker) in Spain under the impression that she is a leader of society in New \ ork. Trouble looms up when rhe receives a letter to the effect that Louise and her fiance are on their way to pay her a visit. However, Annie has some true friends, and it is here that the unreal message comes in—that there is still a Father Christmas, a Father Christmas under the guise of a gambling king. There is much that ri pure comedy in the film and most of it is supplied by Ned Sparks, who plays the part of a frozen-faced gambler. Warren William gives a striking characterisation as “ Dave the Dude,” friend of “Apple Annie,” and who will never enter a deal without one of Annie’s apples to cheer him on the way. Guy Kibbee nearly “ steals ” the picture, for he brings to his part 31l the Old World courtesv which it demands. Jean Parker and Barry Norton have the juvenile leads, but, although they please, few have eyes for anyone other than May Robson, whose dramatic portrayal is wonderful. Drunk or sober, the power of her acting goes right out to the audience and, finally, when she is a “ lady for a day,” she reaches dazzling heights. Those in search of real entertainment should not fail to see “ Lady For a Day.” Good supports are also screened.