NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 208, 22 November 1927, Page 17

NEW REGENT

“FAUST” When two years ago the Continental film production, “Variety,” was shown in America, producers and directors thought the last word in film production had been reached. Later the same company, the U.F.A., brought out that masterpiece, “Faust,” which is now being screened at the Regent Theatre. Film directors were astounded that “Faust” was as far ahead of “Variety” as “Variety” was of anything seen previously. Press critics in England and America were amazed at the almost miraculous photography and the superb direction of this masterful photodrama. Notv in Auckland, "where “Faust” has received its Australasian premiere, Press and public are again amazed. “Faust” is so amazing in its technique that it is unquestionably a triumph for producer, photographer and actor. Emil Jannings, who has certainly proved himself to be the greatest dramatic actor in the world to-day, gives a portrayal of Mephisto that is simply masterly in its delineations. At all times powerful, diabolical, hypocritical, he yet gives to the part just that sense ■

of humour that relieves the terrible character. If Emil Jannings had never created any other screen character his name would at least go down in immortal fame for Jr is magnificent portrayal of Mephisto. Certainly the screen has never seen a greater dramatic actor. Almost equally splendid is the characterisation of “Faust 5 * played by the great Swedish actor, Gosta Ekmann. As the old man, “Dr. Faust,” his characterisation is perfect, while as the youth seeking love, pleasures and adventures he carries one along with his ardour and selfishness. Probably no better choice could have been made throughout the world for the part of Marguerite than director Murnau has made in selecting Camilla Horn, a newcomer to the screen; young, pretty, winsome, a good actress and yet such innocent and naive qualities, ethereal and dove-like in her charm. Crowded houses at the Regent during the week have testified to the enormity and wonders of this magnificent screen spectacle which will no doubt continue to draw big audiencfes during the last three days of its screening. On the same programme there is appearing from the J. C. Williamson Vaudeville the famous English comedian, Fred Curran, whose parodies on various songs, especially his amusing cricketing sketch, “England versus New Zealand,” receive terrific applause at every performance. A strong supporting programme includes an interesting Regent Review on topical events. Pathe Colour Review, an Aesop Fable cartoon and new numbers by Eddie Horton at the organ, whose latest series of novelty songslides are being encored at every session. A magnificent musical programme has been specially arranged by Mr. Maurice Guttridge. Box plans are available at the Theatre, 46-888. “Two Girls Wanted,” the John Golden stage success of last season by Gladys Unger, is now a motion picture. Word from the William Fox West Coast Studios in Hollywood reports ‘that Director Alfred E. Green has “shot” the final scene and is now in the cutting room with the negative bringing it down to presentation length. “Two Girls Wanted” is a starring vehicle for Janet Gaynor, the youngster who achieved cinematic | fame as the result of her interpretaI tion of the role of Diane in the screen | version of Austin Strong’s dramatic [sjiccess, “Seventh Heaven.'*