PLAZA THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 77, Issue 83, 9 April 1934, Page 12

PLAZA THEATRE

4 ‘ BERKELEY SQUARE. ’ ’ ' The unusual experience of mixing | with one’s ancestors of a century and a-half earlier is that enjoyed by Leslie Howard in ‘‘Berkeley Square,’’ which vommenced screening at the Plaza Theatre on Saturday night, iSound judgment appears tn have been displayed in selecting Leslie* Howard for the role of Peter Standish in this Jesse L. Lasky production, which is one of the most completely charming films to have come from Hollywood. It is a splendid photopl iy. tilled with the humour and the gentle pathos that should appeal to all. It is not surprising to know that so marvelous a production was transformed from the stage to the screen by the able hand of Mr. Balderston with the aid of so capable a director as Frank Lloyd. Picture if you can. Peter Standish, a modern young man of 1933. becoming so absorbed in the diary of an ancestor of his own name, that he cannot think of anything but the glorious days of the eighteenth century. Whe nhe returns from visiting some of his friends he is found at the door of his residence in Berkeley Square. Upon reaching the door we behold the modern Peter Stan dish suddenly transformed into the Peter Standish of 150 years ago. As a modern man taking the place of his eighteenth century. When he returns his own ancestors, speaks to some as if he were already dead and amazes everyone by talking of events in history that have not yet occurred. He finds himself engaged to a cousin, Kate —but falls in love with her sister, Helen. Yet he knows from the old diary that he must marry Kate. He cannot change events that have already occurred. Helen loves him, too, and this love makes it possible for her to understand when he tells her. hopelessly, that he is a man from the future —a time when she will be 100 years dead. For a brief time they are happy, even in a love that is hopeless. And then Peter returns sadly to the present with Helen’s promise that he will find the epitaph on her grave etone cut deep to outlast the years. If you enjoy a performance that is finished and perfectly handled, do not fail to see Leslie Howard’s portrayal of Peter Standish in “Berkeley Square.’ Heather Angel plays the leading feminine role opposite Howard. Pretty, tender and appealing. Miss Angel’s performance is superb. Ferdinand Gottschalk, Valerie Taylor, Irene Browne. Beryl Mercer, Alan Mowbray, Colin-Keith Johnston ami Betty Lawford acquit themselves with distinction. On the stage prior to the screening of the big picture Miss Vivienne Healy’s pupils provided a charming dance seen a which was mu‘ch appreciated by the large audience.