MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 158, 24 September 1927, Page 15

MAJESTIC

“MR. WU” There is a never-failing appeal associated with the Orient and anything appertaining thereto. There is something fascinating about the mysterious East which grips one all unwillingly. Possibly because we cannot understand the Oriental mind that this subtle spell is cast. Whatever it is there is just that which attracts, and the management of the Majestic Theatre in presenting “Mr. Wu,” has secured a production that will prove a big attraction. From the story by the master of Oriental tales, Sax Romer, “Mr. Wu” is a powerful drama set in the court of a mandarin of China. No one better than Lon Chaney, the greatest character artist of the screen, could have been chosen for the part of the Chinese potentate. He gives a masterly interpretation of Wu almost convincing one that he is a Chinese. Miss Renee Adoree as Nang Ping, his daughter, plays her part with consummate grace and success, while Louise Dresser and Ralph Forbes are capable supports. Little Nang Ping, a rose of China, taught by her father never to fear love, meets an Englishman. ’Neath the blossoms of an enchanting garden these two forget their respective caste in love. She was guilty of love, and the unwritten code of the East demanded retribution. Wu wreaks his vengeance and fulfils his sacred duty, but how? That is where one must be present. This picture is magnificently produced, and the settings are a feature. The atmosphere of the East is brought right home, and there can be no one who will not enjoy “Mr. Wu.” The remainder of the picture programme is of an exceptionally high standard, and consists of a New Zealand scenic, “The Milky Way,” dealing with the dairy farms of the Dominion. The Majestic News, “Eve’s Review,” and a juvenile comedy, “Grandpa’s Boy,” provide unlimited entertainment. A good reception was given Mr. Jack Lumsdaine, known as Australia’s “Whispering Baritone,” who entered upon his final week. Selecting a number of new and popular airs and a recitation, he won ingtant recognition. He also sang his own composition, “East of Shanghai,” as a prelude to “Mr. Wu.” The settings were appropriate and attractive. A finished and truly excellent interpretation of “Second Hungarin Rhapsody” (Liszt) was given by the Majestic Orchestra under Mr. J. Whiteford-Waugh. The remainder of the musical numbers were chosen w'ith taste and covered a wide range of haunting Oriental airs.