STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 256, 19 January 1928, Page 17

STRAND

“BEN-HUR” CONTINUES “Ben-Hur,* ’the mighty Metro-Gold-wyn-Mayer spectacle, continues its triumphant way at the Strand Theatre, where large houses are the rule at every session. This wonderful photoplay, which will commence its sixth week’s screening in Auckland to-morrow, is by far the greatest screen spectacle ever presented in an Auckland theatre. Scenes which, have never before been attempted are among the outstanding features of the production, and there are so many of these mighty spectacles, and all of them on such a colossal scale that it is difficult to say which is the finest. The story offers exceptional opportunities for gorgeous settings on a lavish scale, and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studios, who were responsible for the production, obviously laid themselves out to surpass any and all of the big spectacular productions of the past. To realise just how far they have succeeded it is necessary to see “BenHur.” Of magnificent scenes there are many. For instance, there is a thrilling sea fight between a fleet of Roman triremes, and an equally large fleet of pirates. Such a sea fight has never before been screened—it is stupendous. One sees the glory and tyranny of. ancient Rome and the sufferings of the Jewish people. The great chariot race scene will live for ever in the minds of those who see the picture. All the incidents from the lifo of Christ which are reproduced on the screen are done ip natural colours, and this photography goes a long way in impressing one with the beauty of the whole film. Ramon Novarro as Ben-Hur has the best role of his career.* Francis X. Bushman as Messala is a Roman; Simonides is perfectly played by Nigel de Bruler, Esther wistfully portrayed byMay McAvoy, w-hile the Mary- of Betty Bronson is a cameo of quiet effacement and youthful dignity-. A beautiful atmospheric prologue introduces the story proper, Mr. Birrell O'Malley- singing the “Star of Bethlehem.” The Strand Sy-mphony Orchestra, augmented for the season, interprets the musical score specially written for the picture.