ENTERTAINMENTS.

Southland Times, Issue 18829, 24 May 1920, Page 3

ENTERTAINMENTS.

POPULAR PICTURE PALACE. Patrons on Saturday received full value when an extremely lengthy and attractive programme was presented. There are six pictures on the programme, and it is seldom that patrons are treated to such a fund of variety. There are two feature dramas, namely, “In the Gloaming” a 5-act British production and “Blind Justice,” a drama in three parts, featuring the screen genius, Henry B. Walthall. Tire Pictorial Educator is extremely interesting and of great educational value whilst the fancy swimming and diving of lady experts won the admiration of all present. Two comedies, “Out For The Coin,” and “His Blighted- Career,” were responsible for roars of laughter and the programme as a whole provides three hours solid enjoyment. Further large attendances should result for the next two nights. ALBION THEATRE. GREAT MORALITY PLAY. A largo and enthusiastic audience witnessed the initial screenings of the super-play “The Cry of the Weak” at this comfortable theatre on Saturday evening. The story makes a wonderful appeal upon onlookers and can be classed as one of the year’s best successes. “The Cry of the Weak” contains an enthrallingly interesting story with a big ripping and humanitarian theme. It emphasises, without “preaching” or “propaganda” the theory that a great number of the crimes which are committed to-day are based on vengeance against the harshness of society, and that many criminals if given the proper opportunity may be reclaimed. From start to finish the story is a vivid page of real life, showing how a girl brough up in slum surroundings rose superior to her environment, and how her weak-minded brother remained in the underworld until reclaimed to a better life by a devoted sister’s love. On the same programme is the Bth episode of “The Man of Might,” and. other interesting subjects.

WEDNESDAY.—MARY PICKFORD. By special arrangement and at the request of the many patrons who wore unable to see this most popular of Mary Pickford’s works, the management have arranged to screen it in conjunction with the star programme for that day. “Daddy Long Legs” is full of the most delicate and artistic Imagery throughout. The world’s favourite is seen at her best in two moods, humorous and sentimental, and in this production she creates a delightful character which is the embodiment of these two. None of her previous pictures ever gave her the chance she has in this and in none of her previous efforts has the exquisite blending of pathos and humour been carried to such a height of artistry. Other films make up a record programme. Special music will be rendered by the Albion ‘Symphony Quartette including the overture, “The Waltz Dream.” The prices are as usual and seats may be reserved by telephone at the Albion.

CIVIC PICTURES. THE HONOUR SYSTEM. For many years prison reform has been advocated in all countries, it being recog- : nised that the present methods of dealing I with those who commit crimes against sociI ety do not accomplish what is intended, the reform of the wrong-doers. The film that 1 occupied the evening at the Civic Pictures | on Saturday shows the old methods used in i some of the United States prisons to-day, ! and how they tend to make beasts of human j beings. The hero, after being wrongly I convicted of murder, is sentenced, and his life from the moment he enters the prison gates reveals the callousness of those in authority, and the inhumane methods used in ‘'reform." The hero escapes, but returns voluntarily to the prison and is rewarded for his self-surrender by brutal treatment. During his few hours of liberty he despatches a letter to the State Governor asking him to come along personally and see “what sort of a Hell the' State prison is.” Acting upon the letter the Governor visits the prison, and t'o impressed is lie with the brutality, that he introduces and has carried a bill on prison reform known as “The Honour System” under which the prisoner is given more liberty and made to feel that, although he has erred once he still has a chance to recover and become a better member of society. The system provides for the development of any genius thet the inmates may have, and they are given every encouragement to work upon their ideas. The climax of the picture comes when the hero is released on three days parole, the Honour System being staked upon his return. Needless to say those who are against the system do their utmost to prevent his return, but after many exciting adventures he managed to return, and while recovering from the effects of his rough handling during his parole is presented with a free pardon, fresh evidence having been obtained bearing upon his rase. The picture is one that leaves a vivid impression, and from an educational

point *hows what can be done to uplift those who have committed sins of commission or omission. The Civic.orevhestra was augmented for the picture, and during the screening added greatly to the enjoyment of the programme by selections from an extensive repertoire. The picture will be screened again this evening commencing at 7.30.