REGENT THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 15 July 1939, Page 2

REGENT THEATRE

"BOY'S TOWN.” A most remarkable film in many ways is “Boy's Town," which will be shown at the Regent Theatre tonight. It is a picture that for sheer merit must be seen to be appreciated. Rarely has the motion picture industry produced a work of such sincerity and appeal. For its effect, the picture does not depend on rapid action or expensive settings. Indeed, the settings are remarkably simple, and the action proceeds at an even pace which is in keeping with the dignity of the picture. A great part of the film was taken at the real Boy’s Town, and this adds much to the conviction which the picture carries with it that it is more than mere fiction. Such events as are portrayed therein have really happened, probably many times in the short history of the town. The part of Father Flanagan, the young Roman Catholic priest who first conceived the idea of the self-governing home, and whose tireless efforts carried the idea through to fruition, is fittingly played by Spencer Tracy, whose claim to the title of Hollywood's best character actor is well founded indeed. He adds to his. laurels by gaining the Motion Picture Academy award for the best performance of the year, and those seeing this film nfiust form the opinion that the award was well deserved. Spencer Tracy is entirely at home in the role, which he has plainly studied in detail. Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of the film is the fact that, by sheer genius of acting, young Mickey Rooney frequently dominates the show. One expects Spencer Tracy, justly famous as he is, to give a good performance. Mickey Rooney plays his part in this film as no other juvenile actor could play it. For sheer brilliance, his acting cannot be surpassed.