OCTAGON

Evening Star, Issue 22453, 25 September 1936, Page 14

OCTAGON

It 'is claimed that Jessie Matthews is a lady who makes a fine gentleman in ‘ First A Girl,’ a Gaumont-Rritish picture which opened at the Octagon to-day. The star is seen in the guise of a man, and a great deal of fun results from her efforts to live up to the new role. Strong double brandies and., hefty cigars have never been Jessie’s strong suit, but on this occasion she tackles them with zest that would do credit to the toughest heman. The results, however, are temporarily disastrous for the masquerader, and it is with the greatest difficulty that Sonnie Hale, her abettor in the little comedy, manoeuvres her down a long corridor to her room after a heavy night out with some of the boys. Jessie in her smart suits is said to be something to chuckle at and admire. In the evening when she floats on to the stage she is a vision of femininity as the central figure of 50 dancing girls, who make a fantastically moving background for the principal danseuse. Some brilliant sets and exciting scenes in the theatre are features of this new Gau-mont-British film, in addition to an attractive love story. A cast of prominent players includes Anna Lee, Griffiths Jones, Martita Hunt, Eddie Gray, and Alfred Drayton. Jessie Matthews, Sonnie Hale, Anna Lee, and Griffiths Jones are the principals. The supporting film is ‘ Here’s To llomance,’ featuring Nino Martini, with Genevieve Tobin and Anita Louise in the romantic roles. In the supporting cast is Maria Gambarelli, famous as a member of Roxy’s Gang, one of radio’s most celebrated aggregations. The romantic plot of ‘Here’s to Romance’ serves as a background for some of the most entrancing dancing and songs that the screen has been privileged to present.