NEW CHANCE

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 846, 14 December 1929, Page 30

NEW CHANCE

European Pictures May

Be Victorious

MR. 0. N. GILLESPIE’S VIEWS

“It will be strange if the ‘talkie’ development does not lead to victory for British and European picture producers.” says Mr. O. N. Gillespie, vice-president of the Theatre Owners’ Association of New Zealand, who is visiting Auckland.

“Talkie*' technique approximates stage technique, and imaginative and forward movements in this direction have nearly always emanated from the older countries, he told The Sun. In at least three instances of great successes from American studios, the production has been handled by outsiders. It is also obvious that London with its easy access to the great European countries should return to its leadership, now that pictures will have to

be made in three or more languages. The rapprochement between the English, French, German and Italian studios was becoming closer every day. In some pictures now in course of preparation, the three versions were being taken simultaneously. BRITISH VOICES It is found, too, in practice, that the vowels, as sounded by the Englishspeaking voice, came over better, and that the Englishman had a sharper and cleaner articulation of consonants. The foundation of the old silent picture was action, and action, and then more action. This suited the American genius, as did the mass production of enormous spectacles, etc. The “talkie” requires a close knit story, pleasing singing, and has, necessarily to consider a whole range of problems outside speed, action, and that curious thing “pep.” The much discussed picture “Blackmail” is a fine example *of the differences that are apparent in the two qualities of production. Every word is clear, natural, English sounding, and unforced. Voices are never raised. Intensity of feeling is got by the English acting method and it is very impressive. Even the American critics, though probably badly bothered by the sight of detectives without cigars, and with quick, but quietly firm voices, found in this picture nothing to criticise. So promising is the outlook for the British Internationl group, that the organisation of Cinema Art Films has been strengthened, and a properly furnished attack on this market is due to be made.