WRY COMMENTARY ON MODERN LIFE

Evening Star, Issue 21751, 20 June 1934, Page 12

WRY COMMENTARY ON MODERN LIFE

EXCELLENT COMEDY FOR EMPIRE ‘ Should Ladies Behave,’ based on ‘ The Vinegar Tree,’ Paul Osborn’s scintillating comedy of a group of people who get into amusing difficulties at a week-end house party, has come to the screen following its triumphant Broadway run of eight months. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer made the film version of the play, which starts on Friday at the Empire with a sterling cast headed by Lionel Barrymore and Alice Brady. The principle trio of the Osborn play, described as a wry commentary on modern life, comprises Augustus Merrick, a touchy out lovable old crab with liver trouble whose picturesque country estate provides the romantic setting for the action of the story; his slightly giddy wife, Laura, who constantly cherishes love affairs of the past but who somehow or other can never remember the names of the men involved ; and Max Lawrence, a specialist in amorous adventures. Also involved are Laura’s sister, Winifred, fresh from Europe, and awfully sophisticated, who thinks she has Max in tow; her niece, Leone, who seems so young and innocent but who manages to take Max away from Winifred from under her very nose. Conway Tearle, who contributed , a memorable portrayal in the stage version of ‘ Dinner at Eight,’ heads the supporting cast of ‘ Should Ladies Behave ’ 'in the role of Max. Katharine Alexander, star of many New York stage successes, makes her first film appearance in this picture as Winifred, and the roles of Leone and Geoffry are filled by Mary Carlisle and William Janney. The pivotal roles of Mr and Mrs Merrick are, of course, played by Barrymore and Miss Brady. Laurel and Hardy make a welcome reappearance in their latest comedy, ‘ Twice Two,’ which is hailed as the best picture they have yet niade.