STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 634, 10 April 1929, Page 14

STRAND

“THE SPY” The sensational story of international espionage, vividly intermingled with train smashes, murder, bombings and an intriguing love story, entitled “The Spy,” still continues to thrill the audiences at the Strand Theatre. The story tells of a lame Russian banker, Max Haghi, who is head of an international spy service. He sets a trap to crush No. 326, a member of the government’s secret service, and his loyal associates. A series of nerve shattering but futile happenings occur, and Haghi is eventually found to be a member of the secret service, who uses a clown’s garb to cloak his profession. The chief character roles are played by Rudolph Klein-Rogge, who plays with brilliant success the difficult part of Haghi; Gerda Maurus, who as Sonia rises to great heights with her dramatic abilities, and makes a clever and attractive heroine; and Willy Fritsch, the screen’s most remarkable character actor, as No. 326 of the secret service, becomes the centre of an absorbing intrigue. In this picture the famous German director, Fritz Lang, has demonstrated that a great producer with advanced technique, the latest scientific lighting and unusual camera devices, is ablo to make a sensational film of popular appeal, clever in treatment, unique in method without being bizarre. An excellent supporting programme is also shown at the Strand, and enjoyable music provided by Eve Bentley’s Orchestra..