AMUSEMENTS.

Hokitika Guardian, 23 May 1927, Page 1

AMUSEMENTS.

EVERYBODYS’ PICTURES “SPLENDID CRIME”—TO-NIGHT. The acting, alone, in “The Splendid Crime,’’ Use new Paramount picture playing at the Princess Theatre tonight is sufficient to lift this film out of the mediocre class. Which should occasion little wonder, inasmuch as William de Mille, who wrote; and directed the story, has assembled a talented cast, from Hebe Daniels, the star, down to the most unimportant “extra.” Belie, herself, gives a performance that surpasses anything she has ever done before. Here she appears as the junior and only feminine member of a trio of crooks, possessed of more ambition than skill in the art of housebreaking. It is a role made to order for her because it offers her a splendid opportunity to shine as a comedienne. Neil Hamilton makes an excellent leading nnyi. As the society millionaire, whoso spend-thrift ways bring him to the verge of bankruptcy, he has a part that calls for elegance of manner and an ability to rise to the dramatic moments. Needless to say lie acquits himself most creditably. 'Anne Cornwall, as Hamilton’s flapper-debu-tante sister, is lovely to look at and more than sweetly convincing. Anthony Jowitl, the handsome young British actor, who hurst into screen fame when he played opposite Gloria Swanson in “The Coast of Folly,” is another player who gives a good account of himself. Bebe’s underworld “buddies'’ are effectively played hv Fred Walton and Lloyd Corrigan, two wellknown character actors. Others who deserve honourable mention are Josephine Crowell, Murcelle Cord ay and Mickey Meßan. A Paramount Gazette and a good comedy will also fie shown. At Kokatnhi on Tuesday a. fine programme will lie shown headed by “The Demon.” On Wednesday next the greatest Juvenile Comedian in the Southern Hemisphere, Little Jackie Clarke, will appear in conjunction with a fine picture display.