STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 5 November 1938, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“FOUR MEN AND A PRAYER.” There was a packed house at the State Theatre last night when a thrilled audience had the startling story of “Four Men and a Prayer” screened to them. The theme is an inspiring departure from the usual movie affection. Four stalwart young men, with a grand old soldier-father, are bound by a gallant pledge to rove the world to avenge his dishonour and death. That great love pervades the entire story. Yet the beauty of Loretta Young and her love for one of the brothers, Richard Greene (a sensational new star discovery), is a joy to be-' hold. Miss Young gives a flawless performance as the American girl who covers her intense loyalty to the brothers’ cause with an “American” flippancy which amazes her British sweetheart most of all, but more than anything puts spirit and vigour into the grim quest. There are superb characterisations in the great cast. Special mention should go to George Sanders, David Niven, William Henry (the other three brotheres), C. Aubrey Smith (the/ father), J. Edward Bromberg, John Carradine, Alan Hale! Reginald Denny, Berton Churchill and Barry Fitzgerald. The impressive dramatic power of the picture holds the attention firmly from first to last. It is one of the most unique and outstanding pictures of the year.