PLAZA THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 168, 19 July 1939, Page 9

PLAZA THEATRE

"KING OF THE TURF” Edward Small’s new romantic film drama, “King of the Turf,” now showing at the Plaza Theatre, not only stars Adolphe Menjou in one of his most important roles to date but also introduces a young newcomer, Roger Daniel, whose great performance indicates that a new star has been born. “King of the Turf” is a story teeming with action and movement and j colour. Its background is the excit-! Ing world of racing fans and gambling tables. Its characters come from all strata of society, its story is rich in drama and comedy, humour and pathos. Forceful direction, brilliant photography, gorgeous background scenes and horse races fill spectators with breathtaking suspense. Menjou and young Daniel are capably assisted by such outstanding supporting players as Alan Dinehart, Dolores Costello, Walter Abel, William Demarest, George McKay and Tom Hanlon. The [ story of “King of the Turf” relates the' adventures and misadventures of a' small-timer whose luck makes him i one of the most prodigious figures of the smart turf set. The story: marches on lo a smashing climax with; sus rose and poignant drama. Men-: jou, in the role of Jim Mason, brings,

to his characterisation a fine appreciation of dramatic values and subtle undertones. Miss Costello, absent from the screen since she appeared ii “Beloved Brat,” is a welcome addition to the cast, adding loveliness and glamt our as well as a richly human performance. “King of the Turf” is high- . lighted throughout by brilliant racing . sequences which were filmed with the j technical advice of racing world habi- , tues who invested the production with accuracy and authenticity. James” i| In 1848 there was born in a small -1 American town Jesse James, who foi ; about fifteen years was the most no--1 torous outlaw in the United States » His life, from the time his mothei 1 was murdered by a railroad hirelinj 1 till, at the age of 34, he was killer by being shot in the back, is brought s to the screen in "Jesse .lames,” com J mcncing on Friday at the Plaza The I atre. The picture is in technicolour ■ and as it is primarily an “out-of - , doors” film some of the scenes an • remarkably fine. There is, in add) ‘ tion, an all-star cast, headed by versa'[tile Tyrone Power, as Jesse James ' Henry Fonda, as his almost equal]} II notorious brother. Frank, and Nanci ' Kelly, who, with the first-named. prO' ■ \ ides a delightful love interest. Ran i dolph Scott, as a .sheriff, has an important role, and Brian Donlevj 51 makes a very sinister murderer.