“Weary River”

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 810, 2 November 1929, Page 27

“Weary River”

NEW TALKING ROMANCE Richard Barthelmess for Plaza

AS far as Auckland is concerned Rickard Barthelmess is the latest talkie recruit. He will be seen soon in “Weary River,” a magnificent talking and singing First National romance booked by the Plaza. Another popular star, Betty Compson, is put through her vocal paces in “Weary River,” the story of a convict who became a successful composer.

It is a long time since Richard Barthelmess made a picture of any kind, but those who see “Weary River,” a Vitaphone production, will agree that

the wait lias been worth while. Barthelmess discloses the possession of an excellent baritone voice that is heard with magnificent effect in the title song and another melodious number, "It’s Up To You.” He plays the part of a young

bootlegger who is betrayed by an accomplice and captured by the police. Sentenced to a prison term he becomes embittered and morose, but a kindly warden teaches and encourages him, helping him to realise the old truth that it pays to be honest. Seeing life from a new aspect, the young man starts afresh and is responsible for the organisation of a convict orchestra which becomes so

efficient that a radio engagement is secured. Over the radio, the bootlegger’s sweetheart hears her lover singing “Weary River” and other haunting numbers. When he is released the hero of the story determines to "run straight” but his old enemy bobs up once more. In a thrilling sequence one is led to fear that the young man will fall again, but the prison warden is instrumental in saving him. “Weary River” is a human little story from the American angle and Richard Barthelmess has never acted better. Betty Compson is excellent in the part of the girl who remains true to the criminal, and others in a Strong cast are William Holden, Louis Natheaux and George Stone. Directed by Frank Lloyd, “Weary River” is all that a good Vitaphone picture should be. Tile photography is excellent, the scenes carefully chosen and elaborately prepared, and the talking and singing clear and melodious.