MAJESTIC THEATRE

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 21, 16 April 1927, Page 14

MAJESTIC THEATRE

A MIGHTY PRODUCTION One would have thought that the age of really fine picture productions had gone, but one is due for a decidedly pleasant surprise upon a visit to the Majestic Theatre to view the Warner Bros.’ mighty feature, “Bon Juan,” which opened for a week on Thursday night. Without romancing and without giving the production any more than its dues, there can be no doubt that the management of this theatre has procured for its patrons one of the finest productions of the year. From whatever aspect it might be viewed it stands out in production, photographic effects, cast, setting and costuming. To those people who have longed to see a real man play a part in modern pictures without having their senses degraded by the sight of Oxford bags, they have in this drama the very acme of all that will appeal

Don Juan, the Spaniard, and greatest lover of the age, who played with hearts and broke them as toys—the bitter command of a dying father who had suffered disillusionment by the unfaithfulness of his wife. What other actor than John Barrymore could better portray the character of Pon. Juan, the light-hearted, much-loved lover of Spain. And he is incomparable. One forgets the actor and sees the man, who is dominating in his artistry. John Barrymore is noted for his remarkable ability, and in Don Juan he is responsible for a truly sterling conception of a delightful role. Mary Astor, Estelle Taylor and Montague Love fill the lesser roles, with a host of other stars, and in short are a combination that cannot but please. Don Juan laughs and loves his way through intrigues of the Borgia regime in Rome —but to tell more would be to spoil everything. See it and be doubly repaid. Don Juan is a master production. The Majestic News, and a clever cartoon comedy complete the picture programme. A delightful childhood fantasy, “The Gigantic Easter Egg,” played by 15 little children, makes a most appropriate interlude. This treat is produced by Mile. Valeska, and speaks well for the work she must have put into the production. Mr. J. Tarr fills the role of the farmer with distinction, and as he dreams the “chickens” break open the huge Easter egg, set in an excellent scenic conception of a farmhouse, and dance their way into the hearts of the audience. The young children acquitted themselves well and met with deserved approbation. The Majestic orchestra, under the baton of Mr. F. G. Mumford, again delighted, and in the overture, “Poet and Peasant,” gave a truly excellent rendition. Holiday-makers may rest assured that the Majestic Theare this week has something quite out of the ordinary to offer.