STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 809, 1 November 1929, Page 15

STRAND

“FOX MOVIETONE FOLLIES” J The William Fox Movietone Follies of 1929, first Follies of the talking- pictures, is to have its local premiere at the Strand Theatre this evening - , and it is safe to say that it is awaited with more interest by moviegoers than any of the other audible productions shown so far, because of its unusual nature. The scope of the films in recording action and voices being so much greater than that of the legitimate stage, the Fox Movietone Follies is expected to provide totally new precedent for entertainments of its nature. Pre-viewers say without reservation that for size, speed and other qualities it far exceeds the limitations of stage technique. Nine young screen and stage favourites head the list of principals and serve not only to interpret characters in the story, which concerns backstage life, but lead the many singing and dancing numbers. They are Sue Carol, Lola Lane, Sharon Lynn, John Breeden, Dixie Lee, David Percy, David Rollins, Frank Richardson and Stepin Fetchit. Miss Carol often has portrayed the role of a jazz mad flapper on the screen. When the talkies came along she was not found wanting, for she has a fetching voice and can dance as well as the most talented Broadway “hoofer.” Her chief specialty in the Fox Movietone Follies is “The Breakaway,” a new song-and-dance number of distinct originality. Miss Lane was *the girl in the Fox Movietone all-talking feature, “Speakeasy.” She came to pictures from Broadway, where she was in the Greenwich Village Follies; and later was George Jessel’s leading lady in “The War Song.” She sings the “Big City Blues” in the Follies. Miss Lynn was in the Fox Films “None But the Brave” and “Red Wine,” and in the talkie “Speakeasy.” She has a high pleasing voice and plays the piano well, having composed several pieces for the instrument. Her main number in the Follies is “That’s You, Baby.” Miss Lee is the girl who scored so tremendously on Broadway singing the “Varsity Drag” number in “Good News.” In the Follies she is heard leading the “Why Can't I Be Like You?” number. All the nine are in their ’teens or early twenties. The supporting programme will include short talkie supports, embracing the song. “Barber of Seville,” by Richard Bonelli. the eminent baritone, an all-talking comedy, a. UFA gem, and a Fox Movietone News.