TIVOLI

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 248, 10 January 1928, Page 15

TIVOLI

“THE BLUE DANUBE” Mr. Frederic Zelnick, the producer of “The Blue Danube,” a film romance based on Johann Strauss’s famous waltz, and coming to the Tivoli Theatre on Thursday, has some very interesting views on the basis of photoplay stories. “I believe,” he said, “that every cit. has certain cahracteristics which can be expressed through the film medium. In ‘The Blue Danube/ for instance, I sought—prior to commencing my script—for some outstanding characteristics or atmosphere which would not only faithfully depict the spirit of Vienna, but, at the same time, prove of international interest. I worked myself for many years in Vienna, and it struck me that the lilting refrain of the Strauss Waltz best depicted the Viennese temperament. Even my few hours in London started a new train of thought in my mind, and I should dearly love to make a picture of" London in which the English spirit was suggested to the audiences of the Zelnick, although believing that every picture should be of international appeal, does not think that the transplanting of directors to a foreign eounr rv however technically proficient—can secure results. “I have had many offers to go to America, he said, the idea being that I can take European ideals and produce them over there with American studio facilities. I have constantly refused, however, as I think an artist needs the atmosphere of his own people and his own surroundings if he is to give to the people outside his country the highest part of his own."

George O'Brien probably has a soeaking acquaintance with more of Uncle Sam's gobs than any man 1^ ln ” Un . -j. nf the service.' Since the days of the war he has kept in close contact with his former buddies, and has been assisted in this respect by two pictures with a navy background.

“His Lady.” John Barrymore's latest Dicture to be released by Master Pictures is an adaptation of the famous opera. “Manon Lescaut.” Dolores Cosis featured opposite the star. It is the unanimous opinion of those who have seen it that it is more spectacular than "Don Juan.” and more gripping than “The Sea Beast.