“BALALAIKA”

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21081, 6 April 1940, Page 13 (Supplement)

“BALALAIKA”

SCREEN VERSION SUCCESSFUL NELSON EDDY PLEASES “Balalaika,” that spectacular musical play which was a great success in London and Australia (it is still one of the most pleasant memories of one of my holidays in Sydney) but owing to changes in cast and “cuts” in various directions was a disappointment in New Zealand, has been brought to the screen very successfully. A Sydney paper says: “Balalaika” is a tale of romance between a colonel of the Cossacks (Nelson Eddy) and the daughter (Ilona Massey) of a revolutionist. There are drama, comedy and spectacle in happy harmony, with a fine balalaika orchestra and an effective chorus to give extra charm to the Russian music. Admiration of Nelson Eddy There are vast numbers of filmlovers who are enthusiastic about Nelson Eddy; there are others who are not. Perhaps, then, the best tribute to the entertainment value of “Balalaika” is to be found in the fact that it converts the doubters into admirers. Nelson Eddy and Ilona Massey make a fine combination. Eddy’s voice is as well-suited to the haunting melodies of the musical play as it is to the rollicking “Ride, Cossack, Ride.” In Ilona Massey he has a costar who acts with delicacy, and yet a sense of comedy, the latter well brought on in her songs. She should establish herself as a firm favourite as a result of her appearance in this film. The film is also notable for the fact that Charlie Ruggles and Joyce Compton are brought together as a comedy team. They are irresistibly funny.