AMUSEMENTS, MEETINGS, ETC.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXI, Issue 18972, 25 March 1924, Page 2

AMUSEMENTS, MEETINGS, ETC.

“THE COVERED WAGON’’ A DRAMATIC PICTURE AND A THRILLING BTOBY. I t “The Covered Wagon’’ is not a Wild > West story, as many might think beI cause a little—really a very little—of I the picture sees the regular wild In- > diang brought i,nto the piece. Any pic- ■ ture dealing with the conquering of The ’ great west of America necessarily entails a dash or two with the Bedskins beloved of schoolboys, yet the bane and , the dread of the early pioneers. At the outset it can truthfully be said that “The Covered Wagon’’ is a great picture, one that must be seen by the children as well as the grown-ups, for it unfolds a story such as is not unknown in this country. Indeed, in several respects “The Covered Wagon’’ could be likened to the experiences of the early settlers of this country. Tho long trek from east to west is one of the greatest epoch making events in the history of America, and the hundreds of covered wagons that took part in the expedition seeking pastures new make a series of graphic scenes. Of course there is a question of love; such was inevitable in a wagon trai ncont.iining a big population. The story itself deals with the early days of America. It is based upon historical facts and introduces those pioneers who paved the way for the mighty cities that have since arisen in the wake of these intrepid explorers. While the historical element is well maintained, much of its interest lies in the introduction of the charming love story. This latter element is not free from intrique. The rivals to the hand of Molly Wingate (Lois Wilson) are ultimately brought into conflict in a real rough and tumble, and this fight is one of the stirring incidents of the production. Another outstanding incident, and one the like of which has never been seen before, is the fording of the River Platte by tho long wagon train of over two hundred vehicles. At the crossing the river is nearly a mile wide and deep, and to watch the dangerous process of the fording, with the mules and oxen well out of their depth, is an inspiring sight. Two hundred wagons ford the rushing stream, the wagon boxes lashed to logs that they might float the running gear. A most realistic prairie fire is also witnessed, and an attack on the Wingate camp by Indians, with a subsequent rescue by those of another section of the wagoners. The cast is a very fine one, which does full justice to the rare opportunities presented. I Lis a magnificent picture, ah education in itself, and its appeal should penetrate into every home. Prior to the screening of “The Covered Wagon,’’ Mr Will Goudie, of Wellington, greatly pleased a big audience with two excellent vocal items, “To-morrow’’ and “I’m Shy.’’ Mr Goudie has a.very nice baritone voice, and the two songs rendered were happily chosen. “The Covered Wagon” is down for screening again to-night, and another crowded theatre should be recorded. The first matinee will be hold to-mor-row afternoon.