NEW REGENT

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 737, 9 August 1929, Page 15

NEW REGENT

“THE BROADWAY MELODY” “The Broadway Melody,’* which may properly be called the screen’s iirst musical drama, is a heart-tugging, fascinating entertainment. Sound picture sceptics may go to see this picture, now playing at the New Regent Theatre, and be amazed. It is a revelation of what can be accomplished—a portent for the future. This Metro - G old wyn - Mayer all-talk-ing film has all the accoutrements of a Broadway musical show, grouped about a gripping story of back-stage life, filled with comedy touches. Throughout the story are interspersed (as a natural part of the continuity) some of the most tuneful song numbers ever written either for stage or screen. These are sung delightfully by Charles King, Broadway musical comedy star, Anita Page, and Bessie Love, with a big revue chorus. “The Brodaway Melody” first introduces us to .Eddie Kane, successful composer, who has been commissioned to write the music for Zanfield's revue. Eddie gets a job for his sweetheart, “Hank” Mahoney, and her sister, Queenie, vaudeville partners, in the new show. Then he discovers that he is no longer in love with bis fiancee, but with her younger sister. Queenie —who also loves him—tries to hide her feeling for the sake of her sister, and goes out with one of the millionaire backers of the show. Dramatic developments come thick and fast, and at the end Hank goes out to resume her former position on the vaudeville circuit, big-heartedly sacrificing herself for her sister. The song numbers, “Broadway Melody,” “You Were Meant For Me/* and “The Wedding of tlie Painted Doll/* are the high spots in a delightful score. The programme also includes a number of short talkie features, and selections on the Wurlitzer organ.