POWERFUL DRAMA

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 52, Issue 3254, 19 April 1943, Page 5

POWERFUL DRAMA

“FOREVER CHERISHED” PROGRAMME AT REGENT SPECTACULAR BIOGRAPHY , A spectacular film biography embodying powerful drama,' keen philosophy and tender romance, Warner Bros.’ new picture, “Forever Cherished,” will show at the Regent Theatre to-night only. The film tells the dynamic story of Knute Rockne, famous figure of sport. Pat O’Brien is starred as the great American football coach and turns in such a fine performance that one losis himself completely in the gripping life story of “Rock” and forgets that he is watching a motion picture. Every mannerism of the late great football mentor, no matter how minute, is said to have been brought into his portrayal. Rockne’s wife, Bonnie, is played by lovely Gale Page, and she gives an excellent performance as the woman who understood and encouraged Rockne when he most needed encouragement.

Ronald Reagan’s portrayal is by far the best performance of his career and is bound to bring a lump to the throat of the most hardened movie goer. Donald 'Crisp is cast as Father Callaghan and he keeps his record of fine portrayals intact. The common-sense philosophy inspired by Rockne, the .men and teams he built, his ability to take victory and defeat in his stride, are all told in the vigorous, full-blooded story of “Forever Cherished.” 1

Robert Buckner, who wrote the scenario, based his story on the private papers of Mrs Rockne and the reports of his intimate friends and associates. In order,to lend even further authenticity to the film, a great many of the scenes were Shot on the old stamping grounds of Rockne —Notre Dame University. Director Lloyd Bacon, noted for his action films, did a wonderful job in transporting the action and thrills of Rockne’s life to the motion picture

screen. “Forever- Cherished”’ is more than just a story of a great football coach. It is a film that should influence and inspire all true admirers of a, great sportsman.