STRAND

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 975, 19 May 1930, Page 14

STRAND

“FOOTLIGHTS AND FOOLS” Auckland cinema-goers are enjoying at the Strand Theatre one of the most widely discussed talking pictures of the current season, Colleen Moore’s newest First National dialogue tilm, “Footlights and Fools.” A new Colleen Moore is revealed in this comedy-drama—a Colleen Moore whose personality is made even more delightful by the addition of a voice regarded as one of the finest yet heard in talking pictures. “Footlights and Fools” presents this popular star in a characterisation that contrasts sharply with, most of her portrayals, for in addition to frequent moments of comedy, there are scenes calling upon Miss Moore for emotional acting of a highly dramatic nature. Technicolour has been employ producer John McCormick to present more vividly a series of stage episodes, in which Miss Moore and a huge ensemble of 72 chorus-girls and dancers appear, all lavishly costumed. It is during these spectacular scenes that the song hits of “Footlights and Fools” are introduced, Miss Moore singing “If I Can’t Have You,” “Pilly Pom Pom Plee,” and “You Can’t Believe My Naughty Eyes.” Another humorous song, “Ophelia Will Fool You,” is sung by Andy Rice, jun., former musical comedy star. A number of prominent players are included in the supporting cast, Raymond Hackett, Frederic March, Virginia Lee Corbin, Edward Martindel, Mickey Bennett, Frederic Howard, and Cleve Moore playing conspicuous roles. A full programme of specially selected short talkie featurettes is also being shown.