ENTERTAINMENTS

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21208, 3 September 1940, Page 8

ENTERTAINMENTS

TO=NIQHT , S PROGRAMMES STATE THEATRE “Slight Case of Murder,” featuring Edward G. Robinson and “Wine, Women and Horses,” with Ann Sheridan and Barton Maclane, will be screened today. “Slight Case of Murder” is an intriguing title, and the film lives up to it. It is an exciting drama, with mystery, thrills and romance, and holds the interest of the audience throughout. There is a strong vein of humour to lighten the tension. Edward, G. Robinson gives one of his strong character studies, and he is supported by an excellent cast. “Wine, Women and Horses” make an exciting combination, and the film is one of the most entertaining seen for a long time. With its diverting situations and dialogue it keeps an audience amused throughout. Ann Sheridan and Barton Maclane do splendid work in the leading roles. THEATRE ROYAL Hazel Ascot, who, at the age of nine years, is the champion dancer of England, heads the cast of “Talking Feet,” one of the most entertaining films seen in Hamilton for a long time. Hazel not only dances perfectly but also is able to sing and act. Mark Hambourg is the famous pianist who toured New Zealand some years ago. He presents a unique mini-piano ensemble featuring himself and 14 clever juveniles. William Heughan, the famous Scottish baritone, is also well known to New Zealanders, and his number, “The Meeting of the Clan,” in which he is supported by the Seaforth Highland Band, is magnificent in music and voice and picture perfect. The Three Cockney Comedians are responsible for much comedy. Novelty is added by the clever work of the Band of the Royal Marines, who led the procession of sailor heroes of H.M.S. Ajax and H.M.S. Exeter in London recently. REGENT THEATRE “Mr Smith Goes to Washington” is a very entertaining film, with an appealing story of sentiment and romance. James Stewart plays the title role, and invests it with charm, earnestness and idealism. Young Jeff Smith is head of the State’s Boy Rangers, and when a vacancy in the j United States Senate has to be filled his name comes to the attention of the ruling political forces who want the appointee to be a harmless and inexperienced tool. Jeff goes to Washington unconscious of the fact that he is helping to betray the ideals he holds so dear. Little by little Jeff learns that he is being victimised, and what he does to assert himself brings the story to an exciting climax. “YOUNG TOM EDISON” “Young Tom Edison,” featuring Mickey Rooney, will be screened shortly. It deals with the youth of the famous inventor and is said to be intensely Interesting. ROXY THEATRE “Sixty Glorious Years,” featuring Anna Neagle and Anton Walbrook, will head the new programme today. “Blondie Meets the Boss,” a very amusing comedy, is also screened. “Sixty Glorious Years” has been produced on a scale in keeping with its striking personal value. The romance of Victoria’s love match and marriage, the alternately tragic and triumphant political affairs which darkened and brightened her reign, her fortitude under distressing conditions, are all enacted in dramatic detail. Said to be even funnier than its predecessor, “Blondie Meets the Boss” opens a note characteristic with Dagwood: he is in difficulty with his boss. Blondie’s efforts to save his job for him results only in her taking his place at the office, with exciting and amusing results. CIVIC THEATRE The season of “Swanee River” has been extended. The very heart of America is embodied in the familiar melodies of Stephen Collins Foster, expressed in such songs as “The Old Folks at Home” (Swanee River), “Old Black Joe.” “My Old Kentucky Home,” “Oh! Susanna!” “De Camptown Races,” “Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair” and “Ring, Ring de Banjo,” to mention but a few. “Swanee River” is screened in vivid technicolour against a fascinating background, while the music of the famous composer adds the finishing touch to a splendid film. Don Ameche, Andrea Leeds and A 1 Jolson have the leading roles. The well-known Hall Johnson choir is heard at its best in the negro songs. “IRENE” “Irene,” with Anna Neagle and Ray Milland, will be screened on Friday. Some of the scenes are in technicolour.