MAJESTIC THEATRE.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 242, 13 October 1931, Page 11

MAJESTIC THEATRE.

JOAN CRAWFORD STARRED. Joan Crawford is starred in “ Laughing Sinners,” now showing at the Majestic Theatre. This is Miss Crawford’s second straight dramatic role, her first having been in ‘‘Within the Law,” in which she scored an emotional triumph. In the new picture the star is directed for the fourth time by Harrv Beaumont, one of filindom’s foremost directors, who first brought her to stardom in “Our Dancing Daughters.’’ He also made “Our Blushing Brides,” and “Dance, Fools, Dance,” Joan’s last film. The dramatic feature is an adaptation of the stirring Kenyon Nicholson play, “The Torch Song.” which was an outstanding hit on Broadway last season. In the new production Miss Crawford sings a song number. “What Can I Do—l Love That Man.” and was written especially for the star by Martin Broones and Arthur Freed. The song is by no means a musical interpolation or •‘theme song.” but plays an important y part in the motivation of the dramatic plot. Sharing leading honours in the picturisation of the stage success are Neil Hamilton and Clark Gable, the former playing the part of the salesman lover and the latter cast as the devoted Salvation Army sweetheart of the capricious roadhouse singer, who turns to religion to obliterate a sinful past, only to yield to temptation when the old "loves comes back in her life. The supporting cast is one of unusual orominence. headed by Marjorie Ram-| beau as Ruby, and including Guy Kibbee (a member of the original stage cast) as Cass Wheeler, Cliff Edwards, Roscoe Kams, Gertrude Short. George Cooper .George F. Marion and Bert Woodruff. Coming To-morrow 4 ‘River End” commences at the Majestic Theatre to-morrow. This picturisation of the most exciting of James Oliver Curwood’s stories of the Canadian Northwest, features Charles Bickford, the screen’s finest portrayer of vigorous he-men, in the dual role of a member of the Royal Mounted Police and as the man he pursues. Evalyn Knapp charmingly plays the part of the girl both men love. Others in the rare cast are J. Farrell McDonald, David Torrence, Walter McGrail, Zasu Pitts, Tom Coghlan. Screen, play and dialogue are by the veteran Charles Kcnvon. Michael Curtiz directed. “River’s a ilnd” is honest melodrama, of the type that rings true. There isa great story, y a fine cast, photographic perfection and the direction of a man who has proved his ability in other screen successes.