STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 31 December 1938, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“ALGIERS.” The colourful activity of a Mediterranean city of Northern Africa forms the background of “Algiers,” starring Charles Boyer opposite Sigrid Gurie and Hedy Lamarr in his most exciting role as Pepe le Moko, debonair international jewel thief at the State Theatre tonight. Practically the entire action of the picture takes place in "the Casbah,” mysterious native quarter of the capital of Algeria. This district is a haven of refuge for criminals from all countries of Europe, Asia and Africa. As the story opens, Boyer and his gang, fugitives from Paris, have lived in the Casbah for two years, never venturing outside its boundaries for fear of arrest. In the district they are safe from the police in the adjoining French city, who dare not molest them owing to the ferocity of the natives; though.the local inspector, Joseph Calleia, continually watches the genial crook. Boyer, however, is content to remain in the squalid quarter with his wildly jealous native sweetheart, Sigrid Gurie, and laugh at the futile scheming of the police. But one day the Casbah is visited by a group of Parisian tourists, including the glamorous Hedy Lamarr. She happens to meet Boyer and a romance develops. Afforded the best role of his screen career in “Algiers,” Boyer delivers an engaging characterisation of the debonair jewel thief. The picture takes on added interest through the fact that it marks the first time the star’s rich bass-baritone singing voice has been heard on the screen. In addition to Boyer, Miss Gurie, Miss Lamarr and Calleia, the cast includes Allan Hale, Gene Lockhart, Mme. Nina Koshetz, Robert Greig, Claudia Dell and Bert Roach.

The supports will include popular science in colour, Andre Le Var tra-. velogue, and latest overseas news. There will be a special session commencing at 10 o’clock.