“NELL GWYN.”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20541, 16 February 1935, Page 25 (Supplement)

“NELL GWYN.”

Successful Film in Second Week. So successful has the opening week of the British Dominions production, “Nell Gwyn,” proved to be at the Civic All-British Theatre that an extension of season has been found necessary. This very popular film began its second week to-day. The continued popularity of “ Nell Gwyn ” in Christchurch is only an endorsement of opinions in England and America, where the picture was judged the finest production yet released from the British studios. There have been a number of period plays released lately but no one could say that “Nell Gwyn” is a mere exploitation of a craze. It can be regarded as in a class by itself and is refreshingly different from previous similar productions. The charming actress, Anna Neagle, bursts into her full glory as Sweet Nell with as fine a performance as the screen has ever seen Anna Neagle play Nell as history depicts her, unrestrained and daring, a woman of unabashed personality, ready wit, and bodily charm, and her dancing to Edward Germain’s dainty incidental music is something to be remembered. Sir Cedric Hardwicke eclipses all his previous performances in a magnetic "portrayal of the Merry Monarch, King Charles 11. Whether he is playing the gallant lover to Nell or conferring with his Ministers on matters of State, Sir Cedric makes the King arresting and entertaining. Four excellent supports precede the main feature. Box plans are at the theatre. No extra charge is made for reserves.