AMUSEMENTS.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 June 1928, Page 1

AMUSEMENTS.

EVERYBODYS PICTUREB.

“ WE’RE JX THE NAVY NOW ” -TO-NIGHT.

Wallace Beery and Raymond Hatton have tlio times of their lives as the gob heroes of Paramount’s second “sunny side of The war” comedy, “ We’re in the Navy Now,” which arrives at the Princess Theatre tonight. Starting in a prize-ring, going to a naval training camp, from there to the deck of a troop transport, and in turn a small row-boat, submarine, French droadnaught, France and then —all the way back to where it started from. “ We’re in the Navy Now ” creates a new laugh record for future directors to aim at. Edward Sutherland, the man who made “ Behind the Front,” has injected more gags in this picture than have ever been seen before. In one sequence, the two stars land at Brest, and proceed to a cafe. There, they see the girl each adores, but who remains an enigma to both, keeping her true identity a secret. Glimpsing her two suitors approaching, she passes them a few drinks and they “pass” out of the picture. Only temporarily, however, because—well, “ We’re in the Navy Now ” should he seen to be appreciated. Chester Conklin and Tom Kennedy are featured. Monty Brice wrote the original screen story. John McDermott prepared the screen play. A topical, further chapters of the serial (“The Silent Flyer”), and a good comedy also will be shown. Patrons are reminded again of the special attraction “ Ben Ilur,” at the Princess Theatre on Monday and Tuesday next.

“BEN HUR,”

MONDAY AND TUESDAY NEXT

MATINEE, MONDAY 3 p.m

A fine presentation cf the. World’s Greatest Picture “Ben Hur” at the Princess Theatre en Monday and Tuesday next, also matinee Monday at 3 p.m. Patrons will ho pleased to hear of the special engagement of the Greymoulli Orchestra of seven players, who will play the score for this great producion, for both nights. Arrangements have also been made for the appearance of Mr T. Clarke who will sing the principal solo in the prologuie. The combined research and culture and experience of thirty years make the motion picture “Bbn Hur’'’! the supreme effort of screen creation. All the brilliant triumphs and successes that have been since the camera introduced the new art seem to have culminated in this crowning achievement—to have been the preparatory work for this great effort. Such praise is lavish, but the opinion of the entire world,, led by personages so famous as llie Prince of Wales, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and fourteen reigning royalties, gives it ample support. Every section of society will find in “Ben Hur’’ an equal appeal. In the throngs that have Hocked to see i.t in England, America, and throughout the Continent, royalty has mingled with the commoner, leaders of the world’s thought, famous churchmen men and women of high intellectual distinction—all have marvelled at “Ben Hur.” As a motion -picture, (General Lew Wallace’s novel and. its remarkable descriptions, have been given the dimensions of life and reality. A lost age is recreated with a fidelity that seems incredible, and would be but for the evidence of countless legions of warriors, the swarming hordes eddying aro-und historic shrines, the mute appeal of the architectural majesty of Home, Jerusalem, Antioch and the inspiring sweep of war vessels across the blue Mediterranean. “Ben Hur” brings an ancient world to throbbing life. The pomp of Home and the agony of Israel surge throughout. A masterpiece of surpassing beauty and massiveness, it breathes a sense of majesty that, combined with its symbo'je splendour and reverential suggestion of the tragedy of Christ, holds an audience spell-bound. In such moments as the chariot race and the sea fight of the galleys, the tin-ill* of nervous action, clashing combat, and flashing steel, awakens a tumult of excitement. As to-the acting, too much praise cannot be awarded Ramon Navarro for bis fine portrayal of the heroic Hebrew youth who lovod, suffered, fought and won. Francis X. Bushman’s splendid muscular frame and handsome features fit him eminently for the role of the proud dominating Messnla. Other outstanding performances are these of May McAvo.v as Esther; Nigel de Binder as Simonides; Claire McDowell in an affecting mother role; Carmel Myers as Iras; and Kathleen ICpy at Tirznh. A grand matinee will be held on Holiday at 3 p.m. prices as same as night, children 6d. 1

Special prices at night will be charged: Circle 3s 3d, stalls 2s, children Is. Reserve at Miss Mclntosh’s shop.