THE EMPIRE.

Taranaki Daily News, 3 May 1917, Page 7

THE EMPIRE.

BLUE BIRD PLAYS. Picture fans will have an opportunity to-night at the Empire of seeing the flrsf, of the famous Blue Bird photoplay productions. This new company has suddenly leaped into prominence abroad by the sheer merit of its work, of which both press and public speak in glowing terms. Theiv first picture, which can only be screened to-night). is entitled '"The Crippled Hand" and the production is unique in that it contains two complete stories, the one touching and charming, the other concerning the darker side of nature, and the two threads are blended and mingled with consummate art. The original story was written by Calder Johnson, and i'fc lias lost nothing in the re-telling under the skilful manipulation of the directors, who, of course, had the best material to draw on. Two of the leading characters are already well known here. Both Ella Hall and Robert Leonard starred in 'The Master Key," and they are assisted in "The Crippled Hand" by a newcomer to "the screen in Miss Gladys Brockwell, who plays "the other woman" with great cleverness, her rare type of beauty contrasting splendidij; with the appealing charms of little Miss Hall. Altogether "The Crippled Hand" forms a splendid entertainment, and the management strongly recommend it to patrons. Supporting items include 'Our (3rip of the Huns in East Africa" (topical), "The Passing of Hell's Crown" (Bison drama, two reels), and "The Deacon's Waterloo 1 ' ('Neater comedy).