MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 111, 1 August 1927, Page 13

MAJESTIC

“THE MONKEY TALKS” A splendidly directed and interesting photo drama, “The Monkey Talks,” starring Olive Borden, is now being screened at the Majestic. This latest Fox Films feature, directed by Raoul Walsh, maker of “What Price Glory?” is a screen version of a stage play that crowded the theatres of Paris, London, and New York in the spoken version. The strangely fascinating character of the talking monkey is played by Jacques Lerner, a young Frenchman, who created the original role in Paris, and who was brought by the producers to America to re-create the role in the film. Olive Borden must be seen in this picture to be fully recognised as one of the most versatile and beautiful stars of the silver sheet. In her role as a circus performer she is equally beautiful in her ballet dress and her dainty gowns. The story, too, is of unusual type. Novel, fascinating, and replete with drama, mystery, and real comedy. Dealing as it does with the members of a troupe of circus performers travelling across France, there are many interesting, not to say fascinating, scenes and situations through the picture. And above all there is that unique character, a talking monkey, to say nothing of other beasts usually associated with a circus, and a huge, sinister ape. Raymond Hitchcock, star of many Broadway successes, has a prominent role, while Don Alvarado as Sam Wick, the lover of Ollivette, Miss Borden, give a splendid performance. Malcolm White and Ted McNamara, the funrriaker, have prominent roles, while Jane Wlnton is a very intriguing siren.