MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 94, 12 July 1927, Page 17

MAJESTIC

“THE MAGICIAN” Of great topical interest is the film being shown at the Majestic of the historic Lindbergh New York to Paris flight. The entire journey from the take-off in Rooseveltfield, New York, to the triumphal arrival in Paris, is shown in detail on this remarkable picture. Well Worth seeing are the night crowds, brilliantly lighted with searchlights, also the arrival of Lindbergh at the American Embassy, and his speech from the Embassy balcony. An excellent supporting programme, featuring “The Magician,” is also being screened. “The Magician” is an elaborate screen adaptation of Somerset Maugham’s novel. Alice Terry is the featured player and Paul Wegener and Ivan Petrovich have leading parts. The real Monte Carlo was used by Rex Ingram for several important episodes of his production of “The Magician” for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. By special permission of the high officials of Monaco, Ingram was allowed to work with his company about the grounds of the famous Casino, and to make scenes in the gambling rooms, where thousands of pounds pass hands with every spin of the roulette wheel.

This splendid film is packed with excitement, and seething with the weird hpynotic influence of a mad magician. Replete with romance, it piles thrill on thrill. It was made by the man whose experience was gained in “The Four Horsemen,” “The Prisoner of Zenda,” “Scaramouche,” and “Mare Nostrum.” With an author of world fame, W. Somerset Maugham, it sets a feast. Ingram made “The Magician” in Europe, at his elaborate studio plant at Nice, although much was filmed in Paris, where the story starts. Beauty, as well as realism, is a feature of this production. Alice Terry heads the largest Continental cast ever. Quite a novelty in comedies is “The Battling Kangaroo,” starring two Australian kangaroos, who prove themselves to be excellent actors, as well as clever fighters and acrobats. This is quite the best comedy seen in Auckland for months. The New Zealand scenic reveals the beauties and charm of the “Anglers’ Paradise” at Tongariro, and one understands why fishermen and tourists come from all parts of the world to visit this fascinating spot. The latest pictures of the Chinese unrest, and motor racing at Florida with Major Segrave and. his famous “Sunbeam,” make the topical budget of particular interest.