AMUSEMENTS.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 408, 15 April 1937, Page 8

AMUSEMENTS.

Plaza Theatre. “The Big Broadcast of 1937” In “Thei Big Btroadjcas'ti of 1937,’* v’hich will screen for the firsis time at the Plaza Theatre this evening, the Paramount studios have produced a film of great entertainment, value. Bright comedy, delightful tinging and a splendid array of talented performers ranging from Leopold Stakowski and his orchestra io George Burns and Gracie Allen, made the film (thoroughly pleasing. One feature which alone would make ;he picture worth seeing is its excellent photography. The s- [aging is modern and Mitchell Leisen, the director, and his cameramen have created a number of striking studies in black and white. The treatment of an orchestral interlude, conducted by Leopold Stokow-skfi\ is exceptionally good. With the camera focussed for several seconds upon the conductor’s expressive hands as they draw the fullest measure of melody from Bach’s Fugue in G Minor, the director has succeeded in adding -a brilliant effect to a really fine piece of musical interpretation. This item thoroughly deserves 'the applause i't evokes from the large audience. Unlike previous “Big Broadcasts,” this film has a good deal of story interest. It is more a musical comedy acted in a broadcast station setting (than a revue. The moat prominent performers include Bob Burns, -who provides a series of hilarious l “additions” to serious broadcast items, Jack Benny, Martha Raye, ShA-ley Ross, George Burns and Gracie Allen. Benny gives an admirable comedy perform'ance, timing hie wi»ll‘icisms- with accomplish3d. ease. makes an excellent broadcasting manager. George Burns and Gracie Allen take full advantage of the scope they are given for their inimitable type.of humour, while Shir’ ley Ross, as a temperamental radio linger, aefts well and Signs delightfully.