REGENT THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 29 June 1940, Page 2

REGENT THEATRE

“NINOTCHKA.” “Ninotchka,” which will be shown tonight at the Regent Theatre is a very clever and amusing satire on the pre-war condition of Europe, with a final reference to Russia. The action takes place in Paris, with occasional excursions to Moscow and Constantinople, so the cosmopolitan atmosphere is very well maintained. The importance of dialogue in a film of this kind is such as to make or break the picture. “Ninotchka” in this respect is one of the brightest films to be released in recent years. The modern Russia, with its numerous and sudden liquidations and its heavy seriousness, is well parodied, and there are some brilliant patches where the long arm of the Soviet reaches out to its erring envoys in Paris. In the leading role, Greta Garbo emerges from her characteristic shell of reserve to produce a really first-rate comedy role. For one short minute her unsmiling appearance as the envoy plenipotentiary of the Soviet leads one to expect a performance of an entirely different kind. She is well supported by Melvyn Douglas, who continues to impress in any role he happens to play, comic or serious. Other first-rate characterisations are those of the three envoys and the Grand Duchess. The whole picture is a treat from beginning to encl, and cannot help but be appreciated. Among the supporting subjects are an excellent Air Mail News showing inspiring scenes of , New Zealand’s troops training in Egypt, the mobilisation of the U.S. Navy, and Mr Churchill upon his becoming Prime Minister. The inimitable Pete Smith is seen at his best in his latest specialty “Stuffie.” The plans are at Nimmos and the theatre.