STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 April 1939, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“PRISON WITHOUT BARS.” A young and beautiful French star is introduced to British audiences in the new London film, “Prison Without Bars,” which will be shown at the 'State Theatre tonight. The newcomer is Corinne Luchaire, 17-year-old discovery of Alexander Korda, who produced the film. Poised and assured, but with a Bergner-like impishness, Miss Luchaire is one of the most striking personalities presented on the screen in recent years. She is clearly destined for international fame. _As Suzanne, innocent inmate of a girls’ reformatory, Miss Luchaire has many dramatic opportunities. Embittered by the harsh regulations, Susanne makes many attempts to escape, but each time she is captured and brought back. Her last escapade coincides with the arrival of Yvonne, the new superintendent, played charmingly by Edna Best. Despite opposition from her staff, Yvonne introduces sweeping reforms. She wins the love and gratitude of Suzanne, for whom she is trying to get a pardon. Happy for the first time, the girl is given more congenial work assisting the institution’s doctor, George Marechai (Barry K. Barnes). She speedily falls in love with him, unaware, as is everybody else, that he is engaged to marry Yvonne. In spite of himself, Marechai reciprocates. The strain of meeting Yvonne in secret, and her conscientious attitude toward her work, proves too much for him. He breaks the engagement and leaves for an appointment in India. The film ends on a poignant note. Brilliantly acted by the entire cast, “Prison Without Bars,” is one of the most moving dramas of the year, with special honours going to the star, Corinne Luchaire, and Edna Best, Barry K. Barnes, Martita Hunt, Mary Morris, Lorraine Clewes and Sally Wisher.