THE THEATRES

Southland Times, Issue 24227, 10 September 1940, Page 11

THE THEATRES

REGENT

“RULERS OF THE SEA” FINAL PRESENTATIONS TODAY Epic screen entertainment, crystallized in a great story of the sea, the story of the triumph of steam over sail, is being presented finally today at the Regent Theatre, in Frank Lloyd’s great production, "Rulers of the Sea." Boasting a distinguished cast, headed by Douglas Fairbanks, jun., Margaret Lockwood and the noted Scottish actor Will Fyffe, “Rulers of the Sea,” a Paramount picture, finds a courageous inventor undertaking to prove the steam engine he has perfected can drive a ship across the Atlantic. He is helped to the ultimate realization of his dream by a young seaman who has had enough of the brutal treatment meted out by the skippers of sailing packets, and by a brave daughter—a girl in love with the young mariner—who wisely guides her father and the man she loves to success. Distinguished by magnificent shots of great ships being buffeted by the Atlantic, by fine performances on the part of the stars and a large supporting cast, the picture looms as the greatest triumph of the production and directorial genius of Frank Lloyd the director responsible for such fine productions as “Cavalcade,” “Mutiny on the Bounty," “Under T>o Flags” and several other outstanding screen masterpieces. The supporting programme being shown with “Rulers of the Sea” includes the presentation of “The Blue Danube Waltz" by the famous National Philharmonic Orchestra, a Grantland Rice sports thrill, and Popeye cartoon.

PAUL ROBESON WITH

WELSH CHOIR

When Paul Robeson announced his retirement from the screen two years ago, he did so because of the unsuitable material available for his unique singing and dramatic talents. Since then many tempting offers have been made, many scenarios submitted, but Robeson remained firm in his decision not io return until the right story had been found. Such a story is “The Proud Valley,” a magnificent human drama of the Welsh mining districts, which was specially written for- Robeson, and which afforded excellent scope for his incomparable bass voice. “The Proud Valley” is indeed a worthy successor to “Sanders of the River” and “Showboat” Paul Robeson’s magnificent voice is heard in many numbers supported by famous Welsh choirs. “The Proud Valiev” will be presented at the Regent Theatre on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

STATE

An unusual and absorbing idea in mystery films is used for the 20th Century-Fox drama, “The Man Who Wouldn’t Talk,” which is the first attraction on the State’s programme today at 2.0 and 8.0. From the beginning of the film, when a murder is committed, the audience and the police know at once who committed the crime; the mystery is the identity of the killer, and his motive. Confessing to the slaying, the murderer refused to speak another word, even in his own defence. The result is a highly exciting story, well played by Lloyd Nolan in the title role, supported by Jean Rogers, Onslow Stevens, Joan Valerie and Eric Blore. The second feature, “Young As You Feel,” stars the ever-popular Jones Family, Jed Prouty, Spring Byington, Kenneth Howell, George Emest, June Carlsen and Joan Valerie. Box plans are at Begg’s or the State. Enchanting in its fantasy, and almost unbelievable in the quality of its production, the screen version of the immortal old American fairy story “Pinocchio” is coming to the State Theatre on Monday next, September 16, for a short season of five week days. A film for young and old, it is the second of Walt Disney’s full-length cartoon features in full colour. Disney, who, it will be remembered, was the pioneer in this field of entertainment with “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” goes one better with this production, since he had the experience with the technique for such a venture, and the sure knowledge that such films would find a ready market when released. Technically, the show is superb. In its story, the film presents a little wooden puppet who is given life by the Blue Fairy. He is sent off to school, but on the way the bad men get at him, and he has some amazing and highly-enter-taining adventures before he gets back to normal life once more. “Pinocchio” is a production all should see. Box plans are already rapidly filling at Begg’s or the State Theatre for each day of the season and intending patrons are advised to reserve early for this special.

MAJESTIC

“Let’s Be Famous,” the sparkling screen comedy, which comes to the Majestic Theatre today, is just what the world needs today—a good laugh. A grand cast of comedians plays the principal parts of this laugh-filled comedy. Popular Sonnie Hale, whose many successes are well known to the picture public, is the star with Jimmy O’Dea, Betty Driver and Patrick Ban in support The music for this bright musical comedy was written by Noel Gay, famed composer of the Lambeth Walk. “Let’s Be Famous” is all real fun with catchy, tuneful songs and beans of Sonnie Hale comedy. One of the most successful plays ever seen in London has been brought to the screen in admirable form. “Black Limelight,” which stars Raymond Massey, Joan Marion and Walter Hudd, is the associate feature on today’s programme at the Majestic Theatre. A most ingenious murder mystery is unfolded before you with an equally unusual solution to prove the innocence of a husband wanted for murder. This is quite definitely a film to be seen. It is a drama which may well take place in any home. Plans are now on view at Majestic Theatre.