STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 150, 15 September 1927, Page 16

STRAND

“HIS NATURAL LIFE” Again last night, the Strand Theatre was packed to the doors by an enthusiastic audience which waited impatiently for the famous Australian photoplay, “For the Term of His Natural Life.’ It is quite possible for two different people to form two widely varying opinions of Dunstan Webb, who plays the role of Captain Frere in “For the Term of His Natural Life.” To some he presents a front of concentrated seriousness, implying that his work is his first thought. He will discuss at great length the angles of picturemaking, explaining intricate details and the essential thoroughness of general technique. But, on the other hand, one could form the impression that he couldn’t be serious, no matter how much he wanted. “Joe” is like that. He is two very nice people in one, his tall handsomeness assisting him to get away very nicely with anything. Joe Webb gives a splendid characterisation of Captain Frere, whose harsh disciplinary measures bring fear to the heart of the hardened convicts. Preceding: this great human epic is an atmospheric prologue by the renowned Lyric Quart€ i tte. The Strand Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Eve Bentley, renders a sparkling overture of English Airs, entitled “Rose of England.” A special orchestral score has been arranged and musical numbers included are Tchaikowsky’s “Meditation,” Schubert’s “Unfinished Symphony,” Massenet’s “Elegie,” Wicnaiawski’s “Romance,” and Gladsanowski’s “Meditation.” The supporting programme is composed of a very interesting Strand Magazine, showing the latest world news, and a screamingly funny Aesop Fable, “The Organ Grinder.”