NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 491, 22 October 1928, Page 15

NEW REGENT

PICTURES AND DANCING When Esther Ralston gives herself to interpreting a part, the audience is assured of a faithful and absorbing interpretation. The large audiences at the New Regent Theatre every evening remain bound by her spell as she depicts the life, the mannerisms and emotions of the pleasure-mad girl, the heroine of her latest starring picture for Paramount, “Half a Bride.” The picture is a timely discussion of marriage and the irresponsible flights of wealthy American youth. It is filled with interest of characterisation and locale, splendidly acted and well thought out. The story deals with a girl who, at 21, has tasted all the thrills which life can hold. As a final grasp she plans a marriage with the companion of an evening, inspired by a mad impulse and a lecture on marriage. Her father breaks up the ill-advised union by kidnapping her and taking her on a long sea voyage aboard his yacht. She escapes from the yacht in a launch, but the young captain of the yacht jumps overboard after her. A storm arises aid they are cast ashore on a deserted island, where the girl learns to work and love.

The role of the young captain is admirably filled by Gary Cooper, who will be remembered for his excellent acting in “Beau Sabreur.” An excellent pictorial supporting programme is being screened and in addition an entirely new programme by the stage band presentation. The new show is entitled “Cairo Nights,” and the members of the band appear in Egyptian costume with picturesque setting and. novel lighting effects. The Regent Corps de Ballet is also clothed in Egyptian colouring, and dance as gracefully and acceptably as ever. The whole of the musical side of the programme is again in the capable hands of Mr. Maurice Guttridge.