IN TECHNICOLOUR

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 52, Issue 3284, 5 July 1943, Page 5

IN TECHNICOLOUR

“THE WIZARD OF OZ” PROGRAMME AT REGENT GAIETY, GLORY, GLAMOUR Successfully combining for the first time adult and juvenile appeal in a motion picture fantasy, “The Wizard of Oz” comes to the Regent Theatre on Tuesday and Wednesday for a return season. Hollywood believes that “The Wizard of Oz” basically served as the ideal fantasy for such an opportunity. The book has been read by eighty, millions since it was written in 1900! and has always had as many grownup readers as children. L. F. Baum wrote to entertain children and to give grown-ups philosophy which would delight them. This has been transferred to the screen. Producer Mervyn Leßoy increased this all-family popularity by making the picture one hundred per cent, musical with catchy tunes and clever lyrics. He next added Technicolour and amazing “magic” which will intrigue audiences of all ages. He sought reality by keeping make-ups in character but natural so that all stars could be recognised easily. Lastly, he awarded the direction to Victor Fleming, famed for “Captains Courageous” and “Test Pilot.” Featured in the picture are Judy Garland as Dorothy, Frank Morgan as the Wizard, Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow, Jack Haley as the Tin Woodman, Bert Lahr as the ’Cowardly, Lion, Billie Burke as Glinda the Good Witch, Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch, Charley Grapewin as •Uncle Henry, Pat Walshe as Nikko and Clara Blandwick as Aunt Em. Practically every member of the cast is from musical comedy and all were stage celebrities.

FINALLY TO-NIGHT

“REAP THE WILD WIND” “Reap The Wild Wind,” will show finally to-night at the Regent Theatre.