“MR. WU”

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 155, 21 September 1927, Page 15

“MR. WU”

MAJESTIC ON FRIDAY Thrills of a new kind; the haunting mystery of the mysterious Orient, with codes and philosophies that almost pass Occidental belief; these, garnishing a romance delicate as the lotus flower, mark Lon Chaney's new triumph on the screen. “Mr. Wu,” which will be shown at the Majestic Theatre on Friday, displays Lon Chaney in a new angle to his old arts. As is usually the case in his outstanding plays, Chaney uses intricate makeup for an intricate character; but this time he goes beyond his usual portrayal. He invades another race for his character, as the silent subtle and sinister Chinese mandarin, versed in the knowledge of ages; almost uncanny in his insight into human character and his enormous power, pursuing his relentless programme of revenge against a family who wronged him. The dramatic climax in which

woman’s intuition is pitted against the wisdom of the Orient, in a desperate duel of wits between Chaney and Louise Dresser, with the life of her son at stake, is one of the most astounding pieces of dramatic action ever given to the screen.

. n The new Metro - Louise Dresser Goldwyn - Meyer feature is a lavish picturisation of the play made famous on the speaking stage, directed by William Nigh, creator of “The Fire Brigade.” It is laid in spectacular surroundings, depicting the mysterious Orient. Pagodas, gardens and strange temples of old China are the background for the gripping drama of life, love and revenge. The cast is a notable one. Louise Dresser plays the English* mother, battling mysterious Orient for the life of her son; Renee Adoree the Chinese daughter, whose wrong precipitates the dramatic situation. Ralph Forbes, the English son, Claude King as Muir, the old Scottish governor, Anna. May Wong, Gertrude Olmsed, Holmes Herbert and Mrs. Wong Wing, and other well-known players appear in a great cast in the production.