SPARKLING COMEDY

Evening Star, Issue 22460, 3 October 1936, Page 22

SPARKLING COMEDY

BRIGHT OFFERING AT ST. JAMES Few better or more sparkling comedies have been screened locally than ‘ Pago Miss Glory,’ shown before a highly-apprceiativo attendance last night at the St. James Theatre. Quick action, with a leavening of drama, romance, and even pathos, make the picture excellent entertainment, and one that should leave a wide appeal. The picture is admirably produced, and heading a strong cast is Marion Davies, who is recognised as one of the cleverest comediennes on the screen. A plot to win a nation-wide beauty contest is the theme of the story- Hatched by a photographer and a promoter, it is a well-conceived piece of chicanery, which gives every opportunity for mirth. Marion Davies is well cast, and scores a big success. Dick Powell plays opposite her, and, although lie sings only one song, ‘ Page Miss Glory,’ his talents arc not wasted. He has the part of a dare-devil young aviator. Others prominent in the first-rate cast are Pat O’Brien, as a get-rich-qnick promoter, and Frank M‘Hugh, as a photographer burning to collect some cash. Patsy Kelly, as a chambermaid in a big hotel, finds much scope for her rather sharp tongue, while Allen Jenkins aids in the mirth-making. Lyle Talbot, as a reporter, and Mary Astor complete the cast. Beautiful gowns are a feature of the production. The story of ‘ Page Miss Glory ’ is as funny as it is unique. Miss Davies, in the role of a country girl, neither pretty nor bright, gets a job as chambermaid in a “ swanky ” New York hotel, in which reside a promoter, portrayed by Pat O’Brien, who has nothing to promote, and Frank M‘Hugh, a jobless newspaper photographer. M’llngh, learning that an advertiser is offering a big cash reward for a photograph of America’s prettiest girl, makes a composite picture, blending the features of famous stage and society beauties, and submits it under the name of Dawn Glory. The photograph wins the contest.'but as they arc unable to produce Miss Glory. Miss Davies is inveigled into the plot. The production moves from the air scenes to a radio studio, to the hotel, and includes tire* singing of Dick Powell in addition to romance and comedy. The supporting pictures are entertaining, instructive, and amusing.