“SMILIN’ THROUGH” AGAIN WORKS ITS MAGIC SPELL

Wairarapa Times-Age, 22 April 1938, Page 2

“SMILIN’ THROUGH” AGAIN WORKS ITS MAGIC SPELL

Norma Shearer’s dramatic triumph, “Smilin’ Through” returns to the Regent. This beautiful story, which has stirred the hearts of countless theatregoers since Jane Cowl first presented it on the New York stage, takes on a new glow under the witchery of Norma Shearer’s acting. The delight of audiences in viewing this picture again proves it to be one of the few photoplays able to stand the test of time.' 'With such sterling actors as Fredric March and Leslie Howard supporting Miss Shearer, “Smilin’ Through” still works its spell of tears and smiles, still sways the heart by its moments of pathos which precede and follow the lighter moments of gaiety. Not even in her recent brilliant “Barretts of Wimpole Street” has Miss Shearer surpassed the stirring work she offers in her dual portrayals of the two girls in this picture. In making a departure from the sophistry of her usual modern roles she is a buoyant, radiant and refreshing spirit. Fredric March, both as the jilted lover and the youth who returns later to win her, is suave and convincing. Leslie Howard has a powerful role as the man who lives with his bitter memories from youth to old age, and invests his role with the charm for which he is distinguished.