REGENT THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 72, Issue 173, 23 July 1929, Page 11

REGENT THEATRE

* 4 White Shadows in the South Seas,” the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer production which has had a very suscessful run in Wanganui brings its season to a close at the Regent Theatre this evening. The film If • lad more consistent favourably criticisms than any production released for a year. The following paragraph is taken from the Sydney Film Weekly: “One of the most entertaining pictures screened for many a long day. The scenes are taken in Polynesia, with its intriguing tropical scenery, its beautiful maidens and massivebuilt men, a wealth of novelty —as provided in the amazing under-water scenes—and the hundred and one touches which the producer has introduced in order that not even the minutest detail might be overlooked. The story is of a most outstanding character. The acting is splendid, the action most natural and the intimate glimpses of native life, something that has hitherto been denied us. As to the photography most of it has never been excelled.” The struggle of the na-

tives to eke out an existence from nature’s food supplies, involving scaling lofty trees and diving to the depths of the sea, and their fight for sui-ival against the forces in a manner that is nothing if not realistic. Added realism is supplied by the synchronised sound effects. The plot tells of the debasing effect the presence of the white man can have on a primitive native people. Monte Blue as the doctor, who, though sunk to low depths through drink, yet retains a desire to safeguard the interests of the islanders, and Raquel Torres, as the chieftain’s beautiful daughter, with whom he falls in love, play their parts with accomplished singing. The supporting attractions are “alltalkie” and themselves provide splendid entertainment.