MAJESTIC THEATRE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 37, 14 February 1939, Page 9

MAJESTIC THEATRE

"MARIE ANTOINETTE.” Completely absorbing the vivacious character of that unhappy figure of the French Revolution, the daughter of Maria Theresa, Norma Shearer probably plays the most perfect dramatic role of her career in “Marie Antoinette,” which is screening at the Majestic Theatre. Unlike most historical films, the general details of this tumultuous section of history have not been distorted. Married to Louis XVI before he was King, to form an alliance between two countries, Marie Antoinette is first shown as a lonely figure, disregarded by her husband and the object of sneering abuse and insult from the exceedingly jealous Madame du Barry. Her Austrian origin is a disaster for herself and her husband, as although she comes to lead a fast and frivolous set at Court she fails to secure the confidence of the Third Estate, which sullenly watches her extravagant expenditure. Meeting by chance the Swedish Count de Fersen (Tyrone Power), who bluntly and pointedly tells her of her reckless and lighthearted behaviour, she falls in love with him, only to be reminded of her duty to her throne and family. After living in America for some years the Count returns to France as the clouds of discontent begin to gather, to lend his aid to the Queen, but he is too late, the deluge of blood and massacre begins, and the Royal Family is imprisoned. Risking his life to organise the famous flight to Varennos, he is faced with failure, and the picture proceeds to its tragic climax.