AMUSEMENTS

Hokitika Guardian, 1 August 1932, Page 3

AMUSEMENTS

EVERYBODY'S PICTURES.

TO-NIGHT AND TUESDAY. “THE SPIDER." When “The Spider" was presented a play on the Broadway stage it sent a galvanic shock through the theatregoing public. It was ah absolute novelty. It broke severely with stage traditions of a hundred years. Not content with keeping the actors and audience separated by the footlights, the whole auditorium was made the scene of the play. In the Fox Films version of this celebrated play, which the Princess Theatre will show to-night, all the original shock devices, and surprise tricks are said to have been retained, with a number of others that the screen alone could present. Like the stage “Spder" the film offering is greatly in the way of an innovation. The new technique, which in the Fox success “Transatlantic,” brought torriadic action back into pictures, previously slowed down by the introduction of dialogue, has been used again in this, mystery play with, what preview reports have unanimous y styled, increased effect. “The Spider" tells of a brother a nd sister whom a designing uncle is endeavouring to keep apart for his financial advantage. When he and the girl attend a theatre, she sees her brother assisting a magician' on the stage. The uncle attempts to forestall reunion. A shot is fifed and the uncle drops to the floor. Then the real suspense mounts. Edmiind Lowe has one of the finest opportunities of his artistic life in the role of Chatrand The Great, a magician, who attempts to unravel the fatal skein of the plot. Lois Moran is by his side in the featured feminine lead. And so the galaxy of stars goes: El Brendel, George E. Stone, in a strong role; Earle Foxe, all under the direceion’ of William Cameron Henzies and Kenneth Mac Kenna, who led Elissa Landi to the- heights in “Always Goodbye.’; . A good supporting programme will also be shown. __