PRINCESS

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 243, 4 January 1928, Page 15

PRINCESS

“ROSE OF THE GOLDEN WEST” A pulse-stirring romance that rocked three nations and played a dramatic part in the winning ol California to the United States 70 years ago is the theme of “Rose of the Golden West,” which will be shown at the Princess Theatre to-morrow. George Fitzmaurice, who gave the screen “The Dark Angel,” “The Tender Hour” and other successes, offers the theatre-going public a thoroughly satisfying and thrilling love story in a gorgeous setting, that of the rich country by the Pacific when it was ruled by the Spanish dons. Gallant Caballeros ride at midnight to keep trysts with starry-eyed senoritas. Hot-blooded patriots battle the intrigue of nations fighting for possession of the golden western empire. Adventure, hand to hand struggles between a handsome hero and his antagonists a gorgeous moonlight fiesta beneath the cypress tree of Monterey, appealing love scenes between a handsome youth and a beautiful girl - these are some of the elements of “Roso of the Golden West.” Mary Astor reveals still further beauty and artistry as the EnglishSpanish heroine who is instrumental in endangering her lover’s life and who then makes a great sacrifice to save him. . Gilbert Roland i» amazing as the young patriot-hero. He fits into the romantic Caballero costume as if born to it and proves himself one of the screen’s greatest lovers.- This youth, who became famous with his portrayal of the role of Armand in Norma Talmadge’s “Camille,” acquits himself in this First National picture with a deep sincerity that wins his .audience immediately.