REGENT THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 25 March 1939, Page 2

REGENT THEATRE

“THE BOY FROM BARNARDOS.” . The understanding manner in which waifs, orphans, and homeless boys are fitted to take their place in life, Is feelingly portrayed in “The Boy From Barnardo’s,” which will be shown tonight at the Regent. One of the most famous charitable institutions in the world; Barnardo’s, with its ever-open door, takes in and shelters the boys, later - fitting them for a career as useful citizens. The boy wants to be a baker or a carpenter, he is trained accordingly, but this film deals with only a small section of the home, the training of the boys for the Royal Navy and merchant service. Freddy Bartholomew is cast, in typical manner, as a priggish little snob who finally emerges as a likeable fellow after having his faults knocked out of him. Used as a dupe by a gang of jewel thieves, he is brought before a Magistrate who sends him to the home rather than to a reform school. The boys are a decent crowd, but Freddy tries his sneaking tricks, and gets thoroughly disliked. Many adventures befall him before he is a sailor aboard the finest ship afloat. Mickey Rooney is cast as the good-hearted Irish friend of Bartholomew, and Herbert Mundin is excellent in the role of Mr Jelks, one of the instructors. The plot is simple, but it is fine entertainment and, skilfully handled by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, it holds the interest throughout. A small boy with an infectious smile and a broad Lancashire accent, Terry Kilburn, makes a great success of a secondary part, and even threatens to steal the show from the two leading figures. Among the supports is an excellent feature dealing. with the history and growth of Salt Lake City. An interesting "Popular Scenic” short, Robert Benchley comedy, “Our Gang,” cartoon, “ Captain and the Kids” cartoon in colour and latest newsreel.