Amusements

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 72, Issue 8, 10 January 1929, Page 2

Amusements

THE MAJESTIC Rich in romance and action and with John Barrymor c giving th e finest performance of his illustrious screen career, “Tempest,” a spectacular picture having as its background imperial and revolutionary Russia, last night opened at the Majestic Theatre. Judging from th c reception accorded Barrymore’s new film, it will challenge ail attendance and popularity records at the Majestic. “Tempest” is crammed 'with action, not to mention plenty of humour, from the opening of tue story when the star is a pleasant officer plunged into the gay life of prewar Russia, to thc final scenes, when ho rescued a princess, his sweetheart, from bloodthirsty hordes and escapes with her to a new life of happiness. Thc story is original, tb G direction nothing short of brilliant, and the work of the large supporting cast exceptional. Lavish settings and marvelous photography have their share in making Barrymore’s vehicle a 190 per cent, example of screen entertainment. Those who like romances will revel in the love scenes played by th 0 star and his beautiful leading lady, Camilla Horn, a blond who makes her American debut in “Tempest.” Previously she was a European star, and her convincing portrayal of thc princess opposite Barrymore stamps her as one of the year’s outstanding finds. Barrymore himsef? never had a more powerful role than the one in “Tempest.” As peasant soldier, dashing officer, lover, prisoner and revolutionary he imbues his characterisation with the fire and sincerity of ihs unrivalled histrionic ability. “Tempest” will bo screened again tonight and finally to-morrow, THE NEW GRAND To-day and to-night will bo the last chance of seeing “Thc Poacher,” a UFA, production from the famous Continental studios, A powerful romance of thc alps, of love, hate and adventure, presented in eight reels of niagni fieent photography. The supporting feature “Let Women Alone,” is a lively comedy drama, featuring Pat O’Malley, Wanda Hawley, Wallace Beery' and Farrell McDonald. In addition is a clever Universal comedy and the latest International News. " Tomorrow another special attraction is coming with Milton Sills, Doris Kenyon, Montague Love, Mitchell Lewis and Stuart Holmes in “The Hawke’s Nest,” one of thc most thrilling dramas of thc year. Supporting fea-

turcs include the 1929 series of rhe popular “Collegians,” who will appear every week in complete new and snappy stories. The box plan for omorrow is now open at Grand Theatre

MUNICIPAL PICTURES The short rrn that has been enjoyed at the Municipal Theatre by Harold Lloyd’s latest comedy, “Speedy,” is now drawing to a close, and this big picture will only be screened for two more evenings. “Speedy” is without a doubt Harold Lloyd’s best. It shows him in thc role of a New York boy whose chief characteristic is the ability to lose his job speedily. He is reformed, however, when he falls in love with Jane, whose father owns a horse tram that is gradually- being pushed off the streets. Parts of Lloyd’s job is to run counter to all thc recognised speed and traffic laws of thc city, and to outwit the transport magnates. He docs both things in his brightest style. To ■watch the progress of his motor car through crowded streets is a new experience, but mild in comparison with a desperate drive to preserve the interests of a bus concern. Around this the plot is wound. Harold Lloyd’s efforts to revive the horse trams arc the cause of much of thc comedy, but his visit to the Coney Island Amusement Area provides many hearty laughs. “The First Kiss,” showing at the Municipal Theatre on Saturday evening, a story of romance and the love of brothers was adapted for thc screen by John Earrow, from the original story, “Four Brothers,” by Tristram Tupper and has Talbot County. Maryland for a locale. Supporting Fay M'ray and Gary Cooper in the screen story ar G Lane Chandler, Leslie Fenton, Par.l Fix, Malcolm Williams, George Nash and Monroe Owsley. THE DUCHESS THEATRE (Aramoho) Richard Barthelmess, the Ten National Screen Stars and other members of First National’s “The Drop Kick” company moved to Padclock Field in Pasadena, for football scenes in this college story, now at thc Duchess Theatre. Padclock Field was named for the famous sprinter, Charj les Paddock, long known as thc “world’s fastest human.”