STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 797, 18 October 1929, Page 17

STRAND

“THE JAZZ SINGER” There was a time when a firm of picture producers would select a big star for a particular film it meant to exploit and fill in the cast with people of little reputation. The worth and drawing power of the star would have to cover up a lot of weaknesses. One might have forgiven Warner Bros, if they adhered to this principle in casting "The Jazz Singer," which stars Al Jolson. It was known that the sum to be

paid the celebrated black-face comedian was big enough "to choke a barn.," and that in every way the film was going to be a tremendously expensive one in the making. But the Warners felt that they had one opportunity to score a supreme triumph and they would go through with it in

way. They did not want anyone to be able to point out a blemish in the picture once it was finished. So they gathered a star cast for the support of Jolson and thus showed good, judgment and good showmanship. "The Jazz Singer" will come to the Strand Theatre this evening. A period of four months was required for the actual making of "The Jazz Singer.” May McAvoy, dainty and winsome star of the screen, was the unanimous choice for the part of Mary Dale, the tiny toe-dancer in the play, whose love and devotion were instrumental in helping Jack Robin, the jazz singer, played by Al Jolson, to achieve his success and bring happiness to both of them.

Warner Oland will be found playing the jazz singer's father, and that fine actress, Eugenie Besserer, will be seen in the role of the mother. Otto Lederer, Nat Carr, Richard Tucker and Bobbie Gordon are some of the other well-known screen favourites who have prominent roles in the film. Alan Crosland directed. The story is that of the son of a cantor who runs away from home, finds fame in the world of the stage and returns too late. The heart appeal is universal and the tenderness and mirth is carried on a stirring current of drama to a climax of tremendous power. Equally enjoyable will be the supporting talkie items. They include songs by Reinwald Werenath, the eminent baritone, a humorous sketch entitled "The Reformer," by Joe Browning. American comedian, an Eve’s Review and a new edition of the Fox Movietone News with events of the day in sight and sound. “The Mighty," the story of a warrior of the city streets whose love for fighting takes him to war to "have a good time," will be produced as an alltalking Paramount picture, starring George Bancroft. "The Mighty" will be directed by John Cromwell*