THE NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 55, 27 May 1927, Page 13

THE NEW REGENT

“IT,” BY ELENOR GLYN The snappiest story screened for many a moon, a great stage presentation by the Operatic Orchestra, firstrate J. C. Williamson vaudeville, novel organ items introducing something entirely new to this Dominion, the first official film of contestants for “Miss New Zealand 1927,” and excellent supports—that is the programme being offered to patrons of the New Regent Theatre, commencing to-day, and it speaks for itself. The big film is Paramount’s “It,” which marked the return to Paramount of Elinor Glyn, noted English

novelist and author of “It,” which serves as Clara Bow’s initial starring vehicle. “It” is Madame Glyn’s film adaptation of her latest story. Through the medium of the camera lens Miss Bow reveals her in-

terpretation oi' just Antonio Moreno what consttiutes “It,” which the author declares Miss Bow possesses to an extraordinary degree. The novel, adapted expressly for Miss Bow, deals with a shop-girl who possesses that magnetic something which defies definition but attracts all others with compelling force. With a limited education, no family prestige and nothing but her fundamental sweetness of character, Clara rises to notable success by exerting the inexplicable “It” and winning the love of her employer.

The film’s locale is any big city; the time, the present. In its unfolding, Madame Glyn goes fully into her conception of the magic quality, depicting characters who believe they have, those who’d like to have, and those who possibly can never gain “It.” In the cast of this big hit are Antonio Moreno and William Austin, who, as Monty, provides a wealth of irresistible humour. On the great supporting programme music is again a predominant feature. Grieg’s famous “Peer Gynt” suite is presented on the stage by Maurice Guttridge and his Operatic Orchestra, which has earned such an enviable name, not only in Auckland but throughout New Zealand. Paddy Saunders, “that designing fellow,” is making a welcome return with fresh cartoons and a host of jokes. At the mighty Wurlitzer, Eddie Horton introduces for the first time in this country, novelty “song slides” with organ accompaniment. The first “Miss New Zealand 1927” film shows a group of contestants going through the “screen test,” which is a most important part of the big competition.