STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 13 December 1938, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“ALEXANDER’S RAGTIME BAND.” “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” will be finally shown tonight at the State Theatre. “SWEET DEVIL.” There will be two features at the State Theatre tomorrow night, the first, “Sweet Devil,” features Jean Gillie and Bobby Howes, a splendid comedy team. It is a farce-comedy with music—a rollicking story of a love-lorn girl’s fake suicide which results in a visit to the rescuer’s house-party, and of the complications which ensue. Fast moving development readily produces laughs. This Jack Buchanan production released by G.B.D. leaves little out that could possibly beguile the popular fancy and. in the light-hearted mixture of farce, slapstick, delicate alcoholic whoopee and romantic comedy, it is certainly a considerable laughter banquet. Furthermore, the frolic has Bobby Howes and his irresistibly co-, mic features, and an infectiously gay' performance by Jean Gillie in the title-role. In addition to the hilarious abandon of Jean Gillie and the miming of Bobby Howes, the fun is excellently served by William Kendall as the pompous Edward, Glen Alyn as the scowling Sylvia, Ellis Jeffreys as the latter’s mother, and Syd Walker as the delightfully obsequious butler. Mention should also be made of the Four New Yorkers, whose agreeable crooning makes piquant narrative commentary in the climax. The second feature is “Non Stop New York.” The keynote which supplies the entertainment in “Non-Stop New York” is one of virile, blustering adventure and thrill-kneaded suspense. The picture moves off at a smart clip, which is sustained right through. In the stellar roles John Loder and the beautiful English blonde, Ann Lee, are ideally cast. Other excellent roles are in the hands of Francis L. Sullivan, Desmond Lester and Frank Cellier. “Non-Stop New York” can readily be recommended as a thrilling and adventurous piece of film fare.