MAJESTIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 273, 8 February 1928, Page 15

MAJESTIC

JOHN BARRYMORE AND “HIS LADY” A programme which would compare favourably with any presented at the world's leading thteatrqs is being shown at the Majestic Theatre, Auckland’s popular rendezvous for happy people. First and foremost on the sparkling programme is -John Barrymore’s latest, photoplay, “His Lady,” one of the most lavish productions which Warner Brothers have yet given to the screen. The ‘ glitter of gold and silver brocade, the glory of tlie great halls of old Versailles, all the brilliance and beauty of the France of Louis JCy. are represented in "His Lady.” The film is a beautiful and spectacular production, in which every detail of costume, lighting, seen© and incident conforms to the originals. Indeed, so authentic is the atmosphere in which the characters portray their parts, that the spectator Is lost to the world of reality in viewing this story of the wealth and misery/the lavish beneficence and heartless cruelty of France of the 18th century. John Barrymore, as Fabian, is seen in one of the finest roles of his successful career. As a dramatic actor he has few peers, and in "His Lady” he rises to the front rank of artistry. Dolores Costello gives a delightful impersonation of the young, unsophisticated girl around whom the story is cast. Supporting th© main picture, is a special film, “New Zealand News and Views,” showing recent important events in our own Dominion, and a very amusing comedy, "Spanish Romeo.” A beautiful musical programme is rendered by the Majestic Orchestra, who feature as their overture, "The Belle of New York.” Another musical attraction is the panatrope exhibition of Mr. McKinlay's record of “Waiata Poi” (Alfred Hill). “SUNRISE” MURNAU’S TRIUMPH F. W. Murnau, the German directorial genius who was brought to Hollywood by Fox Films for the making of "Sunrise,” has been signed to a five-year contract by that firm. Murnau was the maker of the sensational productions “The Last L«augh,” and "The Cabinet of Doctor Calig&j'i,” but his work in “Sunrise” is said to exceed both these films. "Sunrise” is based on Hermann Saunderman’s "A Trip to Tilsit,” and which deals with simple people, a country peasant and his wife, whose happy lives are separated by a woman from the city, only to be united again through their mutual love. From this smiple theme, Murnau has evolved a truly magnificent production, a terrific symphony of emotions and elemental passion, for which purpose he has used entirely original effects and treatment. George O’Brien gives a remarkable characterisation as the slow-thinking, plodding fisherman, while Janet Gaynor, as his wife, and Margaret Livingston in the role of the siren, are splendidly cast.

"Adam and Evil,” a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer farce-comedy, which -will be screened shortly, introduces a new comedy team in Lew Cody and Aileen of laughs, thrills and marital complications. Lew Cody a wonderful performance, playing his first dual role.