“MADAME DU BARRY.”

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20556, 6 March 1935, Page 3

“MADAME DU BARRY.”

Dolores Del Rio as Famous Court Favourite.

“ Trans-Atlantic Merr\--Go-Round ” will be screened finally on Friday night at the Plaza Theatre.

In the stage play, “ The Du Barry,” Christchurch audiences have already seen something of the lavishness which enveloped the court of Louis XV., but in the film, “ Madame Du Barry,” which will begin at the Plaza Theatre on Saturday, the wider scope of the studio set has permitted a presentation even more scintillating. Gorgeous frocking, glittering uniforms and elaborate furnishings are used to advantage, and the whole atmosphere of the court is admirably sustained. The film, however, is not notable for its splendid presentation alone, for Dolores del Rio is well cast in the role of the famous Madame Du Barry, and she dominates the picture with the same gay confidence with which the original Du Barry maintained her ascendancy over Louis XV. Another impeccable performance is given by Reginald Owen as the King, and his acting with Dolores Del Rio is an outstanding success. Supporting roles are well taken, and those of the principal courtiers are excellently portrayed. The story covers the period from the Pompadour’s death, when the Du Barry made her meteoric rise, virtually »rom the gutter, to become the most powerful influence behind the French throne, until the king’s d:ath, and the subsequent imprisonment of the Du Barry. For the most part the film is light in tone, but there is a touch of sadness in the downfall of the shrewd Comptesse at the king’s death. Dolores Del Rio s bright and vigorous portrayal, together with the brilliant presentation, makes the film entertainment of a high order. Box plans at the D.I.C.