STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 June 1940, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“RAFFLES." The large audience at the State Theatre on Saturday thoroughly appreciated the all-round excellent proI gramme presented to them. In addiI lion to splendid supports, which inclu-; I ded particularly interesting views of I the progress of gliding in the air, which should be appreciated by local gliders,'there was shown that brilliant picture, “Raffles,” full of excitement and comedy, and in which David Niven. now a captain in the British Army, scores a distinct triumph. If there is one thing Hollywood has learned in its study of public tastes, it is that many stories are evergreen. “Raffles” is one of them. It is many years since an avid reading public warmed to the adventures of the celebrated “Amateur Cracksman,” yet the story today comes up as fresh as ever, an exhilarating tale of adventure and romance. Samuel Goldwyn chose an ideal “Raffles” in David Niven. a no less ideal

Inspector Mackenzie in Dudley Digges, and reinforced them with the best technical talent at the disposal of his studios. The result is a genuinely first-rate film. “Raffles,” which will again be screened at the State Theatre tonight, recounts graphically the intriguing experiences of that celebrated character. It invests him with I new fame, representing him as a famous athlete and cricketer, widely and 1 favourably known in society, yet indulging a perfect genius for burglaryall for the benefit of someone who needs it. To assist a friend overtaken by unsuccessful gambling, he lifts a priceless necklace from a country home at which he is a weekend guest. That, really, is the beginning of the battle of wits between Raffles and Mackenzie. Olivia de Havilland supplies with David Niven a charming romantic element. “SHIPYARD SALLY.” “Shipyard Sally,” featuring Grade Fields, was in such favour when shown in Masterton some weeks ago, that the management of the State Theatre has acceded to a request from a number of patrons and will show the picture again at the State Theatre for two nights commencing on Wednesday. In

"Shipyard Sally,” Grade Fields sings many of the song hits which have become favourites with the British troops. On the same programme will be a new thrilling feature, “Missing People.”