“THE UNKNOWN”

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 221, 7 December 1927, Page 14

“THE UNKNOWN”

MAJESne’S NEW FEATURE In Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s latest special production, “The Unknown,” which comes to the Majestic Theatre on Friday, Lon Chaney plays the role of the "Armless Wonder” in a circus troupe. It is on this circus personality that the remarkable picture is based No more comprehensive background for Chaney’s astonishing character gifts could be provided than circus life. His ability to twist his supple body into weird shapes is as wonderful as his power to alter his facial expression so that his own features are unrecognisable. In “The Unknown,” he gives the title to the picture by the fact that, while he is an armless wonder by day he becomes a sinister prowling figure by night. He Is the star turn of the troupe, performing wonderful feats of armless strength and ingenuity. The way he secures a cigarette for himself, lights up and smokes, and pours out tea and wine, throws knives and fires a rifle, all with his toes, leaves one fairly gasping with wonderment. There is no doubt Chaney is a most extraordinarily gifted player. The usual interesting supporting programme will be shown, and will include the ever-popuiar Majestic Magazine, the Eve’s Review, a comedy, and a New Zealand scenic. A bright musical programme will be rendered by the Majestic Orchestra under the direction of Mr. Whiteford-Waugh. As their orchestral interlude, the Majestic Orchestra will play “The Barber of Seville,” Rossini.