ENTERTAINMENTS

Waikato Times, Volume 119, Issue 19887, 16 May 1936, Page 10

ENTERTAINMENTS

CURRENT PROGRAMMES. “ROBE OF THE RANCHO.” AT THE REGENT THEATRE. “Rose of the Rancho’’ brings a new personality to the screen—Gladys Swarthout, star of the New York Metropolitan opera. It is a lighthearted musical film, set principally about a picturesque ranch in California. Gladys Swartnout reveals a glorious voice, an attractive appearance, and acting ability. Her songs include operatic excerpts and popular numbers, and all are sung very charmingly. John Boles is her leading man, and he, too, contributes to the delightful musical score. The early scenes depict Monterey at the .time when the Spanish landowners were striving to hold their ranches and property against the attacks of invading American land-grabbers. Endeavouring to combat this menace is a band of faithful vigilantes led by a mysterious person known as Don Carlos. A price is laid on Don Carlos’ head, and a Federal agent from Washington (John Boles) is summoned to Monterey to investigate the situation. Charles Bickford as domineering leader of the raiders plays excellently; . and Herbert Williams as an insurance agent and Willie Howard as the insured, about to die, are responsible for many funny episodes. The supporting programme includes “Musical Memories,’’ in colour; “Vim, Vigo-ur and Vitality,” a Popeye the Sailor cartoon: '“What’s the Answer?” some Sportlight impressions; “Moscow Moods,” varieties; the Ginesound Review and the Paramount World News. “SHOW THEM NO MERCY.” AT TIIE CIVIC THEATRE“Show Them No Mercy” is the last of the films based on the exploits of the G men. As its name implies, it is full of action and the interest is gripped from the start and sustained until the last dramatic scene. Rochelle Hudson and Edward Norris give splendid performances in the leading roles, and their teamwork is some' of the finest seen for some time. The story tells how the young pair and their infant fall into the hands of an unscrupulous band of criminals, who reason that their only means of keeping their actiivties secret is to kill the prisoners. Through a series of tense scenes the film reveals how the welllaid plans of the police gradually force the band into submission. In a thrilling climax Cesar Romero and Bruce Cabot, as the ringleaders of the gang, agree to shoot Miss Hudson and Norris. The foiling of the criminals provides plenty of excitement, and the tense interest of the audience is held throughout. The acting of the whole cast rates the picture well above the average, and to those who enjoy action and smart dialogue “Show Them No Mercy" may be readily recommended.

There is an entertaining supporting programme, including a comedy, a cartoon and the latest news reels.

“CRIME AND PUNISHMENT.” AT THE STATE THEATRE. A novel that achieved real greatness because it portrayed living people comes to the screen in “Crime and Punishment.” Based on Fyodor Dostoievsky’s book of the same title, exceptionally fine Judgment has been shown in the casting. Those familiar with the novel will regard Edward Arnold as a perfect choice for the role of the canny and subtle, although Peter Lorre gives a striking performance as the murderer, Raskolnikov. The plot deals with the story of a brilliant young man, a student of the criminal mind, who, out of pure desperation, attempts to commit the perfect crime. Po-ssessed of a rather extraordinary mentality, he believes he can outwit the blundering police. The tale of his fight against the law makes stirring drama. Marian Marsh and Tala Birrel also are in the cast. “Champagne for Breakfast” concerns a young lawyer (Hardie Albright) who, without clientele, gives up his offices to pursue romance and adventure. He finds both immediately In the being of lovely Joan Marsh, who learns that crooked interests are trying to secure her property for a race track site. “Barney Google,” an amusing coloured cartoon, “Sports Thrills,” and interesting news reels complete the programme. “GINGER.” AT THE ROXY THEATRE. To-day’s programme includes “Ginger,” featuring clever little Jane Withers; “Guard That Girl,” a thrilling mystery story; and “Memories and Melodies,” a spectacular and tuneful production in colour. There will be the usual news session at 7-30 p.m. With Jane Withers and Jackie Searl, “Ginger" is splendid entertainment. There is a big clash with a world of comedy when these youngsters get together. When Jane, little, independent, self-reliant product of Ninth Avenue, is taken into the Park Avenue home of the pampered Jackie Searl, trouble and lots of fun follow. Who hurled the knife at the milliondollar heiress?. Who plunged the mansion into murderous darkness? These questions are answered in “ Guard That Girl.” The plot has to do with a threatened heiress, a bevy of suspicious-looking relatives, and two young men who risk their lives. “PAYMENT DEFERRED.” AT THE THEATRE ROYAL. There will be no pictures at the Theatre Royal to-nighf, owing to the theatre being otherwise engaged. On Monday "Payment Deferred.’' featuring Charles Laughton, will be screened. In this film Mr Laughton, as a sinister killer, gives one of those vivid performances lor which he has become famous. The strong supporting cast includes Maureen O'Sullivan, Dorothy Peterson and Veree Teasdale.