STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 13 November 1939, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“THE MAN IN THE IRON MASK."

In the days when men fought with swords and there was such a thing, even in fighting, as a code of honour, imperial intrigue was rampant in the Court of France. That is the background of “The Man in the Iron Mask,” a fine romantic drama which opened its Masterton season in the State Theatre tonight. Alexander Dumas wrote the novel of this name, which fact alone, raises a motion picture above the ordinary. But this picture does not have to depend solely on the genius of a novelist. It is acted with sure touch and rare power. Louis Hayward, an accomplished actor on the English stage before going to Hollywood, plays magnificently the dual role of King Louis XIV and his brother Phillipe. Hayward, in these parts—particularly that of the cruel, vain self-centred Louis — rivals any actor on the screen. Even when he condemns his twin brother to the wearing of the iron mask, the characterisation retains convincing reality. Maria Theresa of Spain, whose marriage with Louis was arranged primarily to strengthen an alliance between her country and France, is play ed by the beautiful Joan Bennett, whose presentation of a most difficult role, has been one of the greatest triumphs of the cinema world in recent years. Her brilliant portrayal made an immediate appeal to the audience. In addition to the first rate performances turned in by the stars, credit goes to Warren William as D’Artagnan. Joseph Schildkraut as the crafty minister of State. Alan Hale and Miles Mander as the other Musketeers. James Whale, who megaphoned the production, gave it swift and speedy direction, impressive characterisations, splendid timing' and breathless suspense. Added to the excellent acting were beautiful photography, lavish settings, beautiful costumes and unusual lighting effects, and the story itself revolves around the fears which are awakened in Louis brain when he learns that he has a twin brother who was brought up secretly in the province of Gascony by his father’s faithful Musketeers. Fearing that he will be dethroned, because already the people are grumbling and muttering about the excessive taxes. Louis decides to silence his brother forever by imprisoning him in the Bastille after his head is encased in th’ iron mask to which he alone in all France holds the key.