GRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 79, 24 June 1927, Page 15

GRAND

“THE GAY DECEIVER” Lew Cody has been provided with the greatest role of his career in John M. Stahl’s production, “The Gay Deceiver,” the -Gold wyn-Mayer picture which opens to-day at the Grand Theatre. The role* is a radical departure from the light comedy he has been portraying until recently—such as “An Exchange of Wives,” “His Secretary,” “Monte Carlo” and others. It provides a wide range of dramatic expression and full play for the whimsical casual style that is so distinctly his own. The work of the remainder of the cast is of distinguished merit. Carmel Myers has a part nicely adapted to her siren style. As “the lady who is bad but awfully good company,” Miss Myers offers a characterisation with a delicious under-current of humour. Roy D’Arcy, the villainous crown prince of “The Merry Widow,” is seen as a volatile count blatantly deceived by “The Gay Deceiver.” He contributes generously to the humour of the picture. Handsome Malcolm McGregor, is ca.st opposite Marceline Day, a newcomer to the screen, whose last appearance was as the feminine lead in “The Barrier.” She establishes herself as an actress who will soon be treading on the heels of the established favourites. Dorothy Phillips, returning to the screen after her retirement, gives a performance of exceptional merit.