AMUSEMENTS.

Hokitika Guardian, 20 July 1926, Page 1

AMUSEMENTS.

EVERYBODYS PICTURES. “THE FIGHTING HEART”—WEDNESDAY. “Smiling George” O’Brien nails another rung in his ladder of different screen characterisations. In ‘‘The Fighfing Heart.” which opens on Wednesday at the Princess Theatre, the genial William, Fox star portrays a rolo that is a wide contrast to any formerly characterised by him. Emilio second time Smiling George comes under the direction of John Ford, brilliant Fox director, who made the year’s screen sensation, “The Iron Horse”—which scored heavily for both O’Brien and Ford. George’s role of Davy Brandon in “The Iron llor.se” mas the smiling young man’s first leading role in the picture. His magnificent work in that production prompted William Fox to place him under a long time contract. Since the •completion of his first success, George has ascended to the peak of the screen profession, by virtue of a succession of splendid screen characters that net only called for the usual requisites of a star but for diversified histrionic talent, coupled with superb physical strength. From the typical outdoor role in “The Tron Horse,” George was hurled into a “dressed-up” part—that of sophisticated man of the world in “The Mail Who Came Back”—and gave a fine performance. In Robert W. Service’s “The Roughneck,” George played a rugged seafaring youth, a decided contrast to the polished “man who eamo back.” In this character O’Brien’s remarkable physique was Called upon- for heavy duty, but the quiet George came through with flying colours. After “The Roughneck” was completed, O’Brien had the stellar vol 0 in “Tho Dancers.” Forthwith he trimmed his frowsy “roughneck” locks and paid lengthy homage to his tailor. emerging with smart clothes of the latest,pattern. Then came “The Fighting Heart”—this time a shy country lad—unwise in the ways of present day life for a part of the story, and literally hurled into the limelight through the medium of the boxing ring. Gradually the young man turns into a strong willed up-to-date youth filled with snap and energy. All of which goes to prove that William I'ox judged wisely when he selected George O’Brien for stellar roles. A topical and comedy will also be shown.