“SUNRISE”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 451, 5 September 1928, Page 14

“SUNRISE”

COMING TO STRAND

As a result of his work in “Sunrise,” the Fred W. Murnau picture which will have its premiere on Friday next at the Strand Theatre, George O’Brien will no longer be the hero of “Pollyanna” films. Ever since O’Brien earned a place as a film star, he has been unable to get away from his own personality. In every film in which he worked prior to reporting for his part in “Sunrise,” O’Brien has been the up-and-coming hero. Whether as a featured player in a picture like “Blue Eagle” or the more pretentious “Iron Horse,” it has always been his job to be strong, handsome and heroic, almost to the extent of being too good to be true. Those who aspire to careers before the camera may think that any actor ought to be satisfied with parts of that kind. But the true artists wants to be something more than a symbol of virtue. To him the desire always comes to show his full range of powers, and O’Brien was no exception to this rule during his earlier years in Hollywood. As the husband in “Sunrise,” he gives what is for him an entirely new kind of performance. The character is a dull-witted heavy fisherman, a man with an urge to step off the path of righteousness, yet with enough conscience to be the victim of struggling emotions. Naturally, the opportunity which such a role offers to display histrionic ability is something which is welcome to any artist. “Sunrise” will be preceded by a gorgeous prologue entitled “The Angelas.” Box plans are now open at the Strand and Lewis Eady, Ltd.

“DIVINE WOMAN” AT CAPITOL

The glamour of the theatre and the human interest that underlies the spectacle of the gilded butterflies of the stage—these are the elements that make “The Divine Woman” the most dramatic and impelling story that Greta Garbo, the famous Swedish star, has yet appeared in. This M e tro - Gold wyn-Mayer production is now showing at the Capitol Theatre, and is one of the screen’s masterpieces. It is based on the life of the immortal French actress, Sarah Bernhardt, and tells of the loves, hates, successes and failures of a peasant who climbed the dizzy heights to success and became the toast of a nation, only to lose the only man she had ever loved. Lars Hanson plays the leading male role. “A Thief in the Dark,” a thrilling mystery picture' featuring Marjorie Beebie and George Meeker, will also be shown.

ST. JAMES THEATRE

REVUE FINDS FAVOUR Now in the third week of its season at St. James Theatre, the “League of Notions” revue company continues to attract large audiences which leave the theatre delighted with the entertainment provided for them. The company is one of the most happily blended of its kind that has ever come to Auckland, and the wholehearted enthusiasm that the members have in their work is communicated in a satisfying manner to the audience. Linn Smith’s Jazz Band, a collection of spirited musicians, plays the latest music in a fascinating way. The actions that accompany the music are effective and the audience is constantly amused by the diverting antics of the “effects” man. The popular numbers, such as “Breeze” and “Broken-hearted,” sung by Miss Queenie Paul and Mike Connors, are immense favourites, and the talented artists meet insistent requests for more—and they invariably oblige.

The comedy work of Syd Beck and his excellent foil, Ernie Paulasto, is a feature of the programme, both comedians having original methods. The programme is rounded off with solo dancing by Valerie Rougel, and ballet dancing by the Exquisite Six. The programme will be presented again this evening.

“MY BEST GIRL” AT GRAND

“My Best Girl,” Mary Pickford’s delightful picture, is now being shown at the Grand Theatre for the last few nights. In this story Mary plays the role of a little shop girl who falls in love with the son of the owner of the store. Their difference in social life is at first a barrier to their happiness, but finally the boy’s father gives them his permission and blessing. It is a beautiful story, charmingly told. “Wyoming,” a. thrilling action story starring Tim McCoy, will also be shown.

COMPLIMENTARY CONCERT

A professional vaudeville entertainment is promised at the Manchester Unity Hall this evening, commencing at 8 p.m. This will be a complimentary concert given to Mr. Harry Samuels by his fellow artists.

Additions to the cast of “The Devil’s Mask,” John Gilbert’s new starring production, are George Fawcett, the veteran character actor, and Ralph Forbes, who recently appeared in “The Enemy,” and “The Trail of 95,” two forthcoming pictures.