“KING SOLOMON’S MINES”

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 88, 14 April 1938, Page 3

“KING SOLOMON’S MINES”

MIDNIGHT MATINEE PAUL ROBESON AT PLAZA For sheer entertammen? and unexpected pictorial presentation of the author’s original ideas, “King Solomon’s Mines,” screening to-night at the Plaza Theatre “midnight” matinee, takes first place in to-day’s film world.

H. Rider Haggard has been responsible for adventurous, imaginative tales that have thrilled readers since the 'eighties and will continue to do so for years to come. These stories have all the glamour and romance that appeals to any imagination, and “King Solomon's Mines’' is probably the best of these. It is ideal film material, and as adapted and presented by G.B.D. under the direction of Robert Stevenson, it is definitely Britain's film triumph and in tense, exciting entertainment. The story of Kathy O'Brien and her diamond - mining father who obtain a wagon lift from a hunter, Allan Quartcrmain, a.m who arc later joined by Commander Good and Sir Henry Curtis, explorer and adventurer, with the powerfully built Umbopa for driver and guide, makes interesting material. O Brien then disappears with a map he has obtained, supposedly locating the fabuously rich diamond mines—King Solomon s Mines—and the party, following in the wake of Kathy who has gone in search of her father, takes an interest in the proceedings. From the moment they are captured by Zulus and Umbopa reveals himself as their rightlul king, the story builds up to a thrilling and powerful climax that involves tierce tribal wars, gruesome mischief by witch-doctors, and an enormous volcanic upheaval. These scenes have been brilliantly and realistically produced, and the tribal war and celebration scenes in which thousands of natives take part are both impressive and spectacular. As Umbopa, Paul Robeson has never been seen to better advantage. He sings three songs during the action of the film in glorious voice, and acts with conviction. Sharing all honours is Cedric Hardwicke as Allan Quartermain, adventurer. This convincing English star adds but one more characterisation to his successful list. Roland Young makes Commander Good an interesting, friendly little fellow with brilliance, and the romantic interest is sincerely handled by Anna Lee and John Loder.