AMUSEMENTS.

Hokitika Guardian, 25 September 1931, Page 3

AMUSEMENTS.

JOAN CRAWFORD’S ROLE IN “WITHIN THE LAW” WILL SURPRISE FANS. An agreeable surprise awaits those who see Joan" Crawford in “Within the taw,’’ her newest attraction which will head the bill at the Princess Theatre tofnigh’t and Saturday. For it seems that in direct line with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s policy of giving its stars an opportunity to play varied roles -Miss.' Crawford discarded heir “dancing daughter” and “blushing bride”. type of characterisation in this film in order to tackle a part which is 'conceded to be her most difficult one to date, namely that of th© heroine of Bayard Veiller’s underworld drama ‘.‘Within the Law,” on which the picture is based. If ever a part required acting of the first order it is this one of. the pathetic,shop girl who is sent to prison- eh: a false charge and rapidly turns into a goalbird as a result of her criminal environment. That Miss Crawford should carry off the role with honours is not Surprising to those who have been aware of her consistent desire to demonstrate an ability for straight- dramatic work. , It is only when she comes out of prison with the unswerving determination to “get even” with society that Miss/Crawford is again permitted to wearrsmarti-gowns and return to her more; usual: alluring appearance. But the straight drama throughoutj tb© picture, although the story has, ’ its;/share of comedy touches, contribute, ed bhicffy by'George, Cooper as a mem--ftfae, jprook-.;gang: of jwhicli Miss Crawfdrd 'eyentuaiiv becomes the leader, /Others in;the;large supporting cast include Robert Armstrong, remembered as,;the star of “Is Zat So?”; Marie Preypst; Kent Douglass, a newcomer to the screen; Purnell Pratt, of “The Trespasser” fame; Hale Hamilton, Robert Emmet O’Connor, Tyrrell Davis, William. Bakewell, George Cooper, Gwen Lee and Isabel Withers. Also Fox News,; Comedy and Serial. Prices 2/6, 1/6, children 6d downstairs.

£VKRYffODYS PICTURES.