STATE THEATRE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 August 1940, Page 2

STATE THEATRE

“VIGIL IN THE NIGHT.” “Vigil in the Night,” which is to be shown tonight at the State Theatre, is notable for the superb work 'of its stars —Carole Lombard, Brian Aherne and Anne Shirley—and the heart-gripping human drama contained in this vivid picturisation of the A. J. Cronin story< Distinctive also is the unusual realism that marks behind-the-scenes sequences in hospitals, and in this respect this R.K.O. Radio film has the virtue of serving as a glowing tribute to the nursing sister-hood as well as being absorbing and profoundly moving screen fare. The story follows in intensely dramatic fashion the exploits of Carole Lombard as a courageous, altruistic nurse whose life is devoted to her noble work and to her younger, less sacrificing sister, played by Anne Shirley. Brian Aherne is ideally cast as a clever surgeon whose romance with Miss Lombard counterpoints the more starkly dramatic episodes and culminates in the fusing of the twain’s high ideals, ambitions and destinies. A striking departure from her well-remembered comedy characterisations, Miss Lombard's portrayal of the self-sacrificing angel of mercy ranks as one of the most compelling dramatic interpretations ever offered on the screen. The dramatic scope of the role reveals new facets of the star’s versatility. Anne Shirley as the younger nurse who allows her sister to take the blame for a criminal carelessness only to redeem herself heroically in the end, called upon emotional reserve and gave an outstanding performance. Also adding conviction to this powerful drama by A. J. Cronin, whose “The Citadel” will be remembered by many, are the fine characterisations of Julien Mitchell, Robert Coote, Brenda Forbes, Rita Page and Peter Cushing.