MAJESTIC THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 179, 1 August 1932, Page 11

MAJESTIC THEATRE

• AMATEUR DADDY” SHOWING Moments of pathos and a sparkling undercurrent of humour mark the film “Amateur Daddy,” the chief items of the entertainment at the Majestic Theatre. The picture, which is based on Mildred Cram’s popular novel “Scotch. Valley,” is one that will appeal to every type of picture-goer, for it contains everything from thrilling drama to light humour, and also much of that appealing humour akin to tears. Warner Baxter, as the “Amateur Daddy,” and Marian Nixon as the “little mother,” each gives a performant'e that goes straight to the heart, their restraint in roles that call for a high degree of acting giving a convincing measure of reality to their presentations. Baxter’s role is that of a shy, kind-hearted bachelor. Ho escapes from an accident which resuits in the death of his best friend and takes it upon himself to care for his friend’s family, whose name is Smith. But thexe are Smiths and Smiths, which 'never occurs to Baxter, and he soon finds himself fathering a small family of waifs. The oldest, a girl of 18, is played by Marian Nixon. She is inclined to resent the intrusion of Baxter at first, but he gradually wins her confidence, which in turn, develops into love. His generosity is not without its pitfalls, and he soon learns that he has aroused the enmity of a neighbour. At the climax of developments conies a startling disillusionment, but event follows event with equally dramatic force until everything comes right in the end. The child actors who take part in this film deserve very special mention for their naturalness and skill, which is something very pleasing to see. There are many thrilling moments of great dramatic surprise and many of uproarious fun. A fight between neighbours is one of the high spots of Humour. The Majestic has a reputation for providing a noteworthy entracte every Saturday night. “Isn’t it Grand to be Dead’’ may sound, intensely sentimental, but the title belies the purpose of the piece. It tells, with striking humour, of a man who dreams that he attends his own funeral. “Look at the missus; blooming well laughing. Isn’t it grand, to be blooming well dead?” . . . and more in a like strain. The supporting programme is also well up to standard. The comic film centres round two prize roosters; one that survives and another that finishes up in the pot. There is a likeable “Mickey the Mouse” cartoon, entitled the “Farm Yard Broadcast,” and the “Magic Carpet of Movietone” flies over the by-roads of France. The usual budget of world news through the medium of the Fox Gazette, completes a very interesting supporting programme. Wanganui audiences will long remember “Amateur Daddy.” It is a loveable story with a plot strong enough to leave an atmosphere of mystery until the very end. OPERA HOUSE “MOONFLOWER” Subscribers are requested to reserve their seats at the Bristol during the next three days, after which our generous public will have the opportunity of reserving seats. The rehearsals, under the able supervision of Mr. Hylton Osborne, will dow be held in the Opera House in order that the company, which is the largest that has appeared on a local platform, may get accustomed to the stage settings. The orchestra, which will be led by Mr. Will Hutchens, includes many of Wanbooking is excellent. The performance of the new musical play is arousing the greatest interest.