NEXT REGENT ATTRACTION

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 654, 4 May 1929, Page 15

NEXT REGENT ATTRACTION

‘‘WHITE SHADOWS OF SOUTH SEAS”

‘‘White Shadows o£ the South Seas,” the next attraction at the New Regent Theatre, has been hailed by the critics as having set the motion picture industry on a detinite pinnacle of perfection. The absorbing topic of the invasion of the white man into the life of the natives forms the theme of the film which is sound synchronised throughout. The story opens in liikuero, and shows the enslavement of the natives by the white traders who have established a pearling centre on the island. Dr. Matthew Lloyd, who has sunk to the level of a beachcomber through drink, incurs the antagonism of Sebastian, a trader, by his defence of a disabled diver. . ... In revenge, Sebastian has Lloyd lured on board a plague ship, under the pretence that his professional services are needed. Lloyd is lashed to the wheel and set adrift- The schooner is wrecked on a reef but Llovd struggles to the shore, where he is received with the utmost friendliness and hospitality by the natives Eventually he wins a village girl for his wife by saving the life of her brother. He is regenerated, but the discovery of pearls awakens his cupidity and his desire to return to civilisation, and he lights a beacon fire on the mountain top in the hope of attracting some passing steamer. The grief of his native wife turns him from this purpose. The fire, however, brings Sebastian’s schooner to the island. Lloyd is killed in protecting his wife from Sebastian, and after his death the scenes of Hikuero are re-enacted on the island. . , . The picture is from the book by Frederick O'Brien, directed by W. S. Van Dyke, and features Monte Blue and Raquel Torres.

DANCING AT DIXIELAND Dancing will be enjoyed again this evening amid the luxurious surroundings of Dixieland by-the-sea. The famous Dixieland Dance Band will supply the latest music and dancing will be continued until midnight. An added attraction will be provided by a wonderful ballet arranged by Miss Gwen MacXaughton. of the St. Andrew’s Academv of Dancing.