STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 272, 7 February 1928, Page 15

STRAND

“SEVENTH HEAVEN” “Seventh Heaven.” one of the most remarkable productions over screened, is being offered at the Strand Theatre, as the chief attraction on s. notable programflie. When the William Fox, screen version of Austin Strong’s stage play. “Seventh Heaven,” was released in Los Angeles, it met with one of the greatest ovations ever accorded a picture. Its success may be judged from the fact that it ran continuously at this theatre for six months, the same length of time that was enjoyed by tliat other triumph, “What Price Glory.” Much praise is due to Frank Borzage for his masterly direction of the film, and for the high level at which the whole production unreels. One of the most unusual scenes of this film, and one which is almost unique in a motion picture is the sequence depicting Ghico leading Diane up the winding stair to Ids attic, seven flights above the streets of Paris. The audience actually views the couple climbing each floor, and the vivid impression of height is marvellously arranged. Then there is the charmingly beautiful scene where Diane prepares to leave, and Chico, endeavouring to be casual, tells the girl that she can stay if she likes. Where before have any audiences witnessed the artistry, the sincerity and the natural emotion displayed by Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell in these' roles? Miss Gaynor’s work has been likened to that of a Duse or Bernhardt, and with the sub-titles audiences will agree that Diane, as well as her lover is a “very remarkable fellow.” Another scene which must out vividly is the dramatic finale to the production, showing the Armistice Day celebrations. Chico, blinded but unerringly finding his way back to Diane, is seen tearing his way through the dense throngs, never doubting that he will discover the girl in “Seventh Heaven,” where she has waited for four years. Preceding the film is a very artisti-cally-arranged prologue, featuring Miss Phylliss Hazel and Birrell O’Malley. The Strand Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Eve Bentley, gives a fine interpretation of the special musical score, and specially feature as their overture, "Mignon,” (Thomas.)