Motion Picture Reviews (1931)

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MOTION PICTUPET REVIEWS

WOMEN'S UNIVEPSITV CLUB

LOS ANGELES. CALIF.

- Vo l. ii mi

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

JANUARY 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 84S SOUTH HOOVER STREET

Telephone DRexel 2177

Webbcraft Printers, 1851 Arlington Ave., Los Angeles Motion Picture Reviews Three MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OP UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell Mrs. Margaret Argo

Vol. II. No. 1 JANUARY, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per year.

A RESPONSIBILITY

A recent number of “The Outlook” publishes a letter from Carl Laemmle, President of Universal Pictures, to Mr. Creighton Peet, the distinguished critic whose reviews appear in the periodical. Mr. Laemmle says that public taste is changing and asks Mr. Peet to help in “the solution of our readjustment to the rapidly changing standards of the American nation”. In other words, to learn the secret of how to please the public all the time. 1 Mr. Peet’s reply is interesting. He frankly states that it is too big a job to please all the people all the time, and suggests that no formula can meet the “public taste” as though it were a unit “whose members are of a single mind at any one time.” He agrees that the motion picture audience is changing and that the talking picture has brought new pa- trons and discouraged others. The “movie habit”, thoughtless, time killing, uncritical, is disappearing. Discrimination has begun. This has always been the objective of organized women’s motion picture interest. Through years of criticism and ridicule women’s groups have actually had two ideals only in view: encouragement of a greater production of maturely intelligent films, and secondly more pictures presenting life so simply, honestly and decently that children may not be entirely deprived of this great form of entertainment, and not be confused by a sophisticated outlook until they are firmly oriented. It is exactly what Mr. Peet suggests—to “make movies to fit people.” There are a number of reasons undoubtedly why the taste of Ameri- can audiences is changing. The article in the Outlook gives suggestions, and they may be the only reasons for the more critical attitude notice- able toward motion pictures. But we believe that the leaven of women’s interest is also contributing. The five groups of women previewing thru the courtesy of the Association of Motion Picture Producers and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, are members of national organizations whose members are undoubtedly interested in the reviews sent out. Thousands of copies of the reports made by the repre- sentative committees are sent to chairmen and in turn copied for individual members. Many are listed in newspapers and at least one magazine Four Motion Picture Reviews with a large national circulation carries the reviews of one group. It is impossible to know how many persons these reach, or what the influence, but at least we feel justified in believing that the work is a contributing factor to this evidence of changing taste. Mr. Peet does not offer “mother’s clubs” any bouquets. A caustic article published a year ago was entitled “Our Lady Censors”. He blam- ed women’s groups for all the banality of motion pictures. He claimed that we sat with producers in Hollywood over script and production, and cut from lines and action all wit, sophistication and robust vitality. He congratulates the industry for “slipping a few intelligent films by the women’s clubs”. Farthest from the truth is the impression that we have any censorial privileges—or desire to have any! The pictures reviewed at the Academy are always finished products and often are already released. Our comments are useful only to our readers in guiding their own attendance at neighborhood theatres. If our comments seem the more enthusiastic, are more loudly expressed over a delightfully portrayed story which school boys and girls may also enjoy, it is only because it seems more important to us that these films are recognized. The talking pictures have greatly limited the number which interest and entertain youngsters. The “roads to childhood” in motion pictures have been closing gradually but surely. As Mrs. Winter says, “sound makes good things better, and bad things worse” and dialogue has definitely lessened the number of pictures suitable for children. Mrs. Gladys Case Miller, formerly Principal of Work With Children in the Los Angeles Public Library, recently read a paper before the National Librarian’s Association, in which she urged greater cooperation from the producers of motion pictures in making pictures which children could safely see and appreciate, which would open vistas of truth and beauty and joy to them. The cry has come from all over the country. Mrs. Miller says, “The work of women’s organizations creating a public demand and arousing and awakening the individual sense of responsibility has blazed the trail.” In response to this need Paramount has made “Tom Sawyer”. Those who have seen it realize how completely the picture delights children (and adults). Praise, congratulations, thanks to Paramount is appreciated we feel sure, but only the box office can give practical assurance that the “public—American taste” approves the effort. It is important that we as individuals, feel the responsibility by visiting the neighborhood theatre, taking children and the neighbor’s children. There will be other films too. “Abraham Lincoln” will teach more history in a delightful hour and a half, than school will in six months. Watch the lists ! —not only for children’s entertainment but for our own evening’s pleasure, and let us convince the Producers, by discriminating attendance, that the “changing standards” of the American public, to which Mr. Laemmle refers, are going higher! Motion Picture Reviews Five

FEATURE FILMS

ALOHA. Ben Lyon, Raquel Torres. Di- THE BLUE ANGEL. Emil Jannings, rection by Albert Rogell. Tiffany. Seen Marlene Dietrich. From a novel by in Preview. Heinrich Mann. Direction by Joseph Von This is the sordid story of an Ameri- Sternberg. Ufa of Berlin. Paramount. can’s marriage to a half caste South Mr. Jannings impersonates an un- Sea girl and of her unsuccessful adjust- worldly middle aged German professor ment among her husband’s unnatural and of English literature in a boys’ school cruel family. Miss Torres gives a sym- which makes plausible his decided ac- pathetic interpretation of the girl but cent. It is the tragic story of a man’s the unpleasant theme is sentimentally moral breakdown, somewhat similar to exaggerated in its treatment until it is the familiar type of theme he played in an ugly emotional orgy for anyone will- the American productions, “The Way of ing to sit through it. All Flesh” and “Sins of The Fathers”. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 12. The finished artistry of Mr. Jannings Absolutely not. No. and Miss Dietrich is notable in their splendid portrayals, and the direction is of course admirable. Painstaking attention to detail is noteworthy, although THE BAT WHISPERS. Chester Roberts. American audiences may consider it at From the Play “The Bat” by Mary times too frank. The photography is Roberts Rinehart and Avery Hopwood. characteristic of Ufa productions. Pan- tomime is emphasized and the picture Direction by Roland West. United seems very deliberate but not less dra- Artists. matic. The return of Mr. Jannings to our Here is an exceptionally good mystery screen will be welcomed and the vehicle film packed with suspense and blood deserves to attract discriminating at- curdling thrills to the very end. With tention. a well chosen cast, who play most satis- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. factorily, and a liberal sprinkling of No, too sordid. No. humor to relieve the tenseness, this picture cannot fail to please the lover of this type of entertainment. COLLEGE LOVERS. Jack Whiting, Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Marion Nixon. Direction by John C. Yes, if not too exciting Too terrifying, Adolfi. First National. for pleasure. Light, amusing, innocuous comedy with an imaginary and exaggerated atmosphere of school life. The heroine is the BEAU IDEAL. Ralph Forbes, Loretta cause of bitter rivalry between two foot- Young. Direction by Wm. Le Baron and ball players whose game suffers in consequence, until her impartial attitude Harold Brennen. A sequel to “Beau toward both is recognized. Geste” by Percival Wrenn. R.K.O. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Seen in preview. Lightly entertaining. Entertaining. The further adventures of John Geste in the French Foreign Legion, are full of action and thrills, providing robust entertainment which will interest and CHARLEY’S AUNT. Charles Ruggles, entertain. The love interest is of less Flora Sheffield, June Collyer. Direction importance than a theme of loyalty be- by A1 Christie. Columbia. tween childhood playmates. This long familiar farce has been re- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. vamped for the talking films with a dash Recommended. Probably very more of slap-stick, a trifle more of vul- entertaining. garity, and a tinge less of comedy. Given — ——

Six Motion Picture Reviews

a little good will and indulgence, prob- EX FLAME. Neil Hamilton, Marion Nix- ably all the family will enjoy it. on. Direction by Victor Halperin. Liber- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. ty. Yes. Yes. A highly sentimental story of domestic misunderstanding. The action includes sudden death, unmerited scandal, divorce, THE DEVIL TO PAY. Ronald Colman. kidnapped child — melodramatic to the Play by Frederick Lonsdale. Direction final expected reconciliation. by George Fitzmaurice. Samuel Gold- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. wyn Productions. United Artists. No. No.

This is the very human story of a o wholly charming, irresponsible man, — gifted with the joy of living and with a FAIR WARNING. George O’Brien. Di- delicious sense of humor, who suddenly and quite unexpectedly finds himself in rection by Alfred Werker. Fox. love with another man’s fiancee. The A Western melodrama in which plot is amusingly clever, the dialogue familiar plot material is redressed in an is sophisticated and witty, the direction entertaining manner and set in beauti- smooth and deft and the acting very ful out-of-door scenery. The hero is a satisfying. It should prove delightful likable person whose love of nature and entertainment for those enjoying good wild animals endears him to his audi- comedy. ences. The thrilling action is typical of Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. hard-riding, quick-drawing “Westerns”, but on the whole it has much to recom- Rather mature. Too mature mend it, especially to youthful audi- to interest. ences. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. DOORWAY TO HELL. Lew Ayers. Yes. Very exciting. From story by Roland Brown. Direction by Archie Mayo. Warner Brothers. “The Doorway To Hell” is a startling, FIGHTING THRU. Ken Maynard. Di- exciting but apparently truthful picture rection by William Nye. Tiffany. of the beer racket as we hear of it to- Western action film in which youthful day. It is excellently done and it is un- mine owners are cheated until the villain usual in its ruthless portrayal of this is overpowered in a sound fist fight. It menace to society. Lewis Ayers is the is exciting and as far from reality as self-made leader who tries to get out. possible, but, boys especially, will enjoy His character is real and understandable the constant action and the hero’s re- but not admirable. The others in the markably intelligent horse. cast also give strong interpretations so that one receives a vivid impression of Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. the vicious character of this underworld Yes. Yes. warfare and cannot fail to appreciate its stem and miserable lesson. Many adults —o will think it worth seeing. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. FREE LOVE or MODERN WIVES. Cannot harm. Hardly necessary: Genevieve Tobin, Conrad Nagel. Di- too terrible. rected by Hobart Henley. Universal. clever portrayal of the woes and o A — vicissitudes of married life make intrigu- THE EASIEST WAY. Constance Ben- i n g and delightful entertainment, abounding in keen wit, humor, and nett, Adolph Menjou, Robert Mont- satire. Though there will undoubtedly be gomery. M.G.M. Seen in Preview. some who will take issue with the A successful presentation of the well outcome of the play, nevertheless as a known stage production: a melodramatic whole the picture will be very amusing. story of a girl whose early choice later Excellently directed and well-cast, it wrecks her life. The theme is suitable preaches without being preachy and is and intelligible to adults only. very direct. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. No. No. Questionable. No. —

Motion Picture Reviews Seven

FOLLOW THE LEADER. Ed Wynn, HOOK, LINE AND SINKER. Wheeler Ginger Rogers. From George White’s and Woolsey. Direction by Edward production “Manhattan Mary”. Direct- Cline. R.K.O. ion by Norman Taurog. Paramount. Through the efforts of the comedy Against a background of gangster and team in the guise of promoters, the thug society, Ed Wynn, as a waiter, heroine’s ramshackle old hotel becomes clowns through an inconsequential story unbelievably popular. It is then robbed of his efforts to obtain theatrical fame and wrecked, but happiness is assured for his employer's daughter. Despite oc- when a reward is given for the capture casional moments of hilarity, the hour of the robbers. Enjoyment of this type and a half seem long for even the most of farcial comedy is entirely a matter absurd dialogue, unrelieved by action, of taste for the nonsensical humor, al- bores. Certainly children would find it though never to be taken seriously, is more dull than less critical adults and frequently touched by actual vulgarity. in addition, and more seriously, the con- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 6 to 12. stant emphasis on the criminal motif and Not recommended. Not recommended. consequent confusion of moral values, makes farces of this type undesirable for junior audiences. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. LADY OF THE LAKE. Percy Marmont, Confused moral values. No. Benita Hume. Direction by James Fitz- patrick. English Production. SILENT. The story of Sir Walter Scott’s poem told simply, directly, and pleasantly. The exquisite scenery and classical sig- THE GREAT MEADOW. From novel b- nificance recommend it. Elizabeth Roberts. Madox John Mack Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Brown, Eleanor Boardman, Lucile La- Recommended. Of doubtful Verne. Direction by Charles Brabin. interest. M.G.M. —o The Great Meadow is a strong historical drama, covering an interesting and THE MAN WHO CAME BACK. Janet seldom portrayed period, that of the Gaynor and Charles Farrell. Based on settlement of Kentucky by settlers from Virginia who were inspired by Daniel the play and story by Goodman and Wil- Boone’s enthusiastic stories of the mar- son. Direction by Raoul Walsh. Fox. vellous meadow country “across the This is a stereotyped, melodramatic mountains”. It is a realistic and thrill- tale of the spoiled young son of wealth, ingly dramatic portrayal of the pioneer’s who falls to the degradation of life in a struggle with the elements and natural Shanghai opium den, where he meets obstacles, and the constant terrifying again the little cabaret singer, whom he menace of hostile Indians. It particular- had loved previously. To save one another, ly emphasizes the tragic and courageous they struggle heroically to conquer their part played by women in pioneering. The depraved desires, and finally “come general effect is inspir- of the picture back” to an ordered life and happy film ational because of the of charac- beauty ending. The acting is adequate for an ter portrayed, the sympathy, helpfulness unconvincing and unpleasant picture, and unselfishness early by which the which is so theatrical and exaggerated settlers strengthen other. sought to each in its presentation as to smack of the story, The charming love reminiscent of old time “melerdramer” at its height. Enoch Arden, is presented with rare Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. delicacy and the acting is on the whole excellent. It is well worth seeing. Unsuitable. No. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Excellent. Possibly too strong. MEN ON CALL. Edmund Lowe. Di- (Note—This film’ has been recut and rection by John Blystone. Fox. changed materially since our “preview” A romantic drama showing the restor- review appearing in the December, ’30 ation of a man’s faith in the woman he bulletin and the changes make it much loves, uses the Coast Guard for an enter- more interesting. It is now highly taining if somewhat melodramatic back- recommended.) ground. The plot is a bit trite and the — —

Eight Motion Picture Reviews

picture not particularly convincing, comedy moves gayly to a family recon- nevertheless it is fair entertainment of ciliation and a happy ending. Barring a clean and wholesome type. the unbelievably silly chasing scene, an Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. evening’s pleasant unimportant diversion Yes. Harmless but is afforded. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, to 12. rather mature. 8 Yes. Probably passable. —O' NEW MOON. Lawrence Tibbett, Grace —o Moore. Directed by Jack Conway. M.G. M. RANGO. Ernest Schoedack Production, A sophisticated musical romance, uti- synchronized with sound and music. lizing once more the “princess-com* Paramount. Seen in preview. moner” theme, is admirably produced Rango is the name of the giant ape and enacted and serves as excellent back- found in the jungles of Sumatra. Two ground for the gorgeous voices of Mr. Rangoes, a father and son, and two hu- Tibbett and Miss Moore. It might have man beings, an old man and a boy, are been treated more subtly and one re- the central characters of this unusual grets that it must stoop at times to vul- story of the struggle for existence amid gar burlesque totally out of keeping the most primitive surroundings, and with the rest of the picture. However, against their common foe, the tiger. Mr. because of its value musically, artistic- Schoedack, with Merian Cooper produc- ally, and dramatically, it will provide e d “Chang”, “Gras s” and “Four splendid entertainment for the adult Feathers” and the present production is audience. another to be highly recommended for Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. all audiences. Hardly. No. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. —o Recommended. Yes.

ONE HEAVENLY NIGHT. John Boles, Evalyn La ye. Direction by George Fitz- maurice. United Artists. REACHING FOR THE MOON. Douglas A pleasantly amusing musical play Fairbanks, Edward Everett Horton, which is too mature in theme for youth- Claude McAllister, Bebe Daniels. Di- ful audiences. A cabaret singer is exiled rection United Artists. Seen in pre- for indiscreet behavior and persuades by the cafe flower girl to impersonate her. view. In living up to the other’s reputation this Fairbanks is happily cast as a Wall girl finds herself in embarassing situ- street “dynamo” with no time for ro- ations. The cast is effectively chosen. mance, who is startled to find his ab- Miss Laye, making her screen debut, is sorption in business shattered when a girl talented and charming, with a splendid- sails for Europe. He follows, and the ly trained voice and she has ability as a crossing is the setting for uproarious comedian. It is an entertaining film for fun. It is an entertaining farce, spon- adults. taneous, and sophisticated, but good fun. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. No. No. Entertaining. Mature.

—o PART TIME WIFE. Edmund Lowe, Leila Hyams, Tommy Clifford. Direction REDUCING. Marie Dressier, Polly Mo- by Leo McCarey. Fox. ran. Direction by Charles Reisner The family physician advises a young M.G.M. husband to take up golf as a cure for Comedy predominates but there are uncontrolled temper and irritable nerves tears also in the simple story of two which have brought him to the verge of sisters whose deep love for another is a divorce. To a running accompaniment severely strained by family irritabilities, of current golf jokes, and greatly en- jealousies, and real trouble. The humor hanced by the heart-touching portrayal descends to slap stick but it is really of the little caddy and his dog, the amusing and never boring and Miss — —

Motion Picture Reviews Nine

Dresslar’s fine characterization gives a Flint, as portrayed by George Bancroft, very human touch throughout. is admirably consistent and believable. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. It is an intelligent production, dramatic and interesting — the final ending only Yes. Not entirely suitable seeming, in a way, an anti-climax after but parts will entertain. so moving a story. —o Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Of probable interest. Too mature. THE RIGHT TO LOVE. Ruth Chatter- o ton, Paul Lukas. From the story “Brook — Evans” by Susan Glaspell. Directed by SIN TAKES A HOLIDAY. Kenneth Mc- Richard Wallace. Paramount. Kenna, Basil Rathbone, Constance Ben- A painstaking and interesting effort nett. Directed by Paul Stein. Pathe. has been made to film Susan Glaspell’s clever treats story of woman’s right to live. Miss A but improbable story Chatterton gives a memorable perform- a ‘marriage de convenience’ which ance in the two roles of the mother who evolves into one of real love. It is not pays dearly through many weary years sufficiently lightly done for farce and for her youthful love affair, and then of not convincing enough to be taken seri- will its adult the daughter who is unable to under- ously. It have appeal to stand the mother’s suffering and sacri- audiences in that it is smart, sophisti- fice until she herself has loved not wise- cated, beautifully staged, and in general ly, but too well. As presented, the story well acted. is confused, at moments even weak, and Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. except for the brilliant acting leaves a Not recommended. No. somewhat disappointing general impression. The theme is unsuitable and uninteresting to junior audiences. WHITE THUNDER. Charles Starrett, Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Captain Bob Bartlett, Louise Huntington. No interest. No. Direction by George Melford. Seen in Preview. This is a genuinely interesting film SCANDAL SHEET. George Bancroft, of an expedition into Canadian ice fields Clive Brook, Kay Francis. Direction by in search of seal skins. Interest never John Cromwell. Paramount. lags, for in addition to the educational qualities of the picture, there is a nicely This is the story of the managing developed plot unfolding the story of a editor of a “yellow” daily whose policy man whose bad luck is finally overcome was “If it’s news, print it!” irrespective in a dramatic climax. It is different, of what it was or whom it might destroy. entertaining, highly recommended. The atmosphere of a metropolitan newspaper office seems to have been present- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. ed sincerely, and the character of Motly Excellent. Exciting. ——

Ten Motion Picture Reviews

SHORT SUBJECTS

BURTON HOLMES TRAVELOGUE EX-PLUMBER. Lloyd Hamilton. Di- SERIES. Producer, Burton Holmes. rection by William Goodrich. Education- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. al Pictures. This series of travelogues is by far the Comedy based on jealousy, deceit, and most interesting that we have reviewed. family quarrels. Not cleverly portrayed The scenes are decidedly out of the ordi- and not worth seeing. nary tourist paths and yet chosen with such rare discrimination that the spec- —o tator leaves with a vivid, unified im- HIGH STEPPERS. A Grantland Rice pression of the far country or strange customs which have been shown. Despite Sportlight. Van Beuren Corp. Pathe. an occasional blur in the photography, An exhibition of various track activi- everyone will enjoy these pictures, to ties selected from different athletic which added charm is given by the perti- meets. The slow motion should prove nent comments and subtle humor of the highly instructive to beginners in these lecturer. sports. Good. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. —o Yes, highly. Yes. KNIGHTS IN KHAKI. Produced under the auspices of the Boy Scouts of Ameri- No. 1. “SULTAN’S CAMP OF VIC- ca. Direction by Donovan Miller. TORY.” A cast of Boy Scouts demonstrates in The Sultan of Morocco reviews his a simple story, the daily life and train- tribesmen, who give a magnificent dis- ing advocated by their organization, and play of Arab horsemanship. illustrates by their precepts for the development of character, good citizenship No. 2. “TALE OF THE ALHAMBRA.” and resourcefulness, as well as many The architectural beauty of a famous interesting facts of scout lore. Although it is replete with palace is further illuminated by histori- somewhat amateurish, cal commentary. the charm and vitality of youth and will be good entertainment for the whole No. 3. “PEEPS AT PEKIN.” family. Glimpses of the Forbidden City and —o scenes of native life. MARRIAGE ROWS. Educational Pic- No. 4. “DUBLIN AND NEARBY.” tures. Ireland, its army and humorous com- slapstick comedy which treats ments thereon. This is a family relations lightly and witlessly. No. 5. “IN MOROCCO.” The theme is what might be expected title. Not recommended. Scenes of native life in Rabat and from the Casa Blanca, with the contrasts of mod- —o em and age-old customs. MONARCHS OF THE FIELD. Grant- No. 6. “THRU THE YANTZE GORGES” land Rice Sportlight. Pathe. A two thousand mile trip up the in which intelligent Yantze and the interior of China, with A presentation are shown in action in the the perils of such a voyage safely seen hunting dogs entertaining. from one’s comfortable chair. field. Very

No. 7. “CHINA’S OLDMAN RIVER.” River life and customs in China. MYSTIC ISLES. A Vagabond Adventure with Tom Terriss, the Director. Van No. 8. “SPAIN’S MADDEST FIESTA.” Pathe. A hilarious four day fiesta in Nor- Beuren Corp. thern Spain, which culminates in an A trip to the Dutch East Indies de- amusing and bloodless bull-fight. picting the scenic beauty of the Islands’ — —

Motion Picture Reviews Eleven

native life and art with accompanying THREE HOLLYWOOD GIRLS. Eddie description. Good for all audiences. Nugent. Direction by William Goodrich. —o Educational Pictures. A light comedy about three aspiring THE SPELL OF THE CIRCUS. Francis movie stars who help each other with X. Bushman, Jr., Alberta Vaughn. Bobby their meager resources until success is Nelson. Direction by Robert Hill. Uni- reached by one at least. It is above the average for this type of production. versal Serial. (Chapters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, o 10 .) — A mystery romance told in chapter WIZARD LAND. Tom Terriss Adven- form, which because of its circus atmosphere will have general appeal to chil- ture. Pathe. dren. The story is simple and the circus A visit among head hunters in which scenes interesting and varied. The sus- a bit of “majic” saved the adventurers’ iense is less exaggerated than common- lives. Interesting and instructive for all fy found in serials and the action is audiences. logically developed in the chapters previewed. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Probably entertaining. Passable but exciting. t MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS A’jN G'E L E S , CALIFORNIA

FEBRUARY 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

9 4 S SOUTH HOOVER STREET

Telephone DRexel 2177

Webbcraft Printers, 1861 Arlington Ave., Los Angeles Motion Picture Reviews Three MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall

Vol. II. No. 2 FEBRUARY, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per year.

FEATURE FILMS

BACHELOR FATHER. C. Audrey THE CRIMINAL CODE. Walter Hus- Smith, Ralph Forbes, Marion Davies. ton, Phillip Holmes. From the play by From the play by Edward Childs Car- Martin Flavin. Direction by Howard penter. Direction by Robert Z. Leonard. Hawks. Columbia. M.G.M. The picture closely follows the original A deliciously naughty comedy concern- story of the play: of a boy who is sen- ing a man whose self-indulgence has tenced to the penitentiary for an acci- left him with gout and three illegitimate dental killing. There he loses his morale children and who, when old age creeps and is saved only through the sympa- upon him, gathers his children to him, thetic efforts of the warden. It is a con- and through them discovers new happi- vincing and dramatic portrayal of the criminal ness. In spite of a definite effort to re- code and our prison system, main as closely within the bounds of unsentimental, and intensely interesting, propriety as could possibly be done with but depressing. Walter Huston gives a masterly performance. is a play of this nature, it remains entire- The direction ly too sophisticated for youthful audi- admirable. ences. However it can be heartily recoim- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. mended as light entertainment for adults. Possibly interesting; Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. depends on individual. No. No. DANCE FOOLS, DANCE. Joan Craw- ford. Direction, Harry Beaumont. M.G. BEHIND OFFICE DOORS. Mary Astor, M. Robert Ames. From an original story by Joan Crawford’s brilliant acting, a good cast, satisfactory direction plus the Alan Brener Schultz. Direction by Mel- suspense and thrills of melodrama are ville Brown. R.K.O. not enough to reconcile us to the sordid, Though we see in the picture a pleas- tawdry, unwholesome atmosphere which ing cast and attractive settings, the plot, pervades this too often repeated story of which concerns a private secretary who racketeering and gangland society. When wins the love of her young employer, is the girl reporter discovers that her unconvincing, mediocre, and shop-worn. brother is the murderer the only way out The bright spot in the whole is the work of the plot’s complications is three mur- of Miss Astor whose characterization is ders! It is entertaining for adults who intelligent and sincere. like their melodrama in strong doses. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. No. Unsuitable. Undesirable. No. — —

Four Motion Picture Reviews

DESERT VENGEANCE. Buck Jones, FIGHTING CARAVANS. Gary Cooper, Barbara Bedford. Direction by Lew King. Lily Damita, Ernest Torrence, Tally Columbia. Marshall. Direction by Otto Brower and A highly melodramatic and unreal David Burton. Paramount. western in which our noble hero is de- A simple love story unfolds against ceived by a winsome “lady crook”. Our the historical background of the west- sympathy for him: is divided when we ward trail, a period filmed so frequently learn that he also is a desperado—the of late that the test of novelty is quite leader of a gang of bandits with a desert lacking. The two hard drinking old hide-out. A final gun battle kills off scouts and their amusing dialogue are everyone but the reunited pair. It is 1 so entertaining that one excuses them pretty poor entertainment for anyone. for slowing up the action of the picture. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. It provides agreeable diversion for all No! No. the family. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. —o Yes. Yes. DIVORCE AMONG FRIENDS. James THE GANG BUSTER. Jack Oakie. Di- Hall, Lew Cody, Natalie Moorehead, rection by Edward Sutherland. Para- Irene Delroy. Direction by Roy Del mount. Ruth. Warner Bros. Another farce built upon the gang ac- disruptive Jealousy is the cause for tivities in our cities. The inimitable divorce contemplated between two young comedy of Jack Oakie is shown to ad- people. The plot is trite, and the action vantage as a naive country boy who and dialogue exceedingly vulgar, the captures two rival gangs in one short quarrelsome dialogue being particularly day. Although undeniably entertaining, offensive type generally at- and of a the burlesque is overshadowed by in- tributed to “fish-wives” rather than to tensely realistic scenes of gun play and cultured people. murder, and the gangster element ap- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. pears in rather romantic light. By no means. No! Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Not recommended. No.

GENTLEMAN’S FATE. John Gilbert, DRACULA. Bela Lugosi, Helen Chand- Louis Wolheim. Direction by Mervyn Le ler. novel by Stoker and From the Bram Roy. M.G.M. (Seen in Preview.) the stage play by Hamilton Deana and A wealthy young bachelor, about to be John Bladerstone. Direction by Tod married, learns that he is in reality the Browning. Photography by Karl Freund. son of an Italian bootlegger. Filial Universal. kindness causes him to assume suspicion of theft to save his dying father, This concerns the nocturnal ad- play and his name and character then gone, ventures of Count Dracula, a vampire in he joins the game with his brother. As his quest for human blood — the only adult fare, it is entertaining, due to thing which will sustain his “undead” smooth direction, excellent cast, and his ultimate extermina- existence—and clever character parts with very amus- tion by a famous scientist. Those familiar ing lines. The ending is consistent al- with the book or stage production will though directing false sentiment to the find that this famous tale of horror loses hero. It is adult fare only. none of its eerie qualities in its adap- 16. Children, 12. tation to the screen, which is remark- Adolescents, 12 to 8 to ably successful. It is unique in plot, and No. No. is especially well cast. The settings and —o photography produce a weird background admirably suited to further establish an GIRLS DEMAND EXCITEMENT. John unreal atmosphere. But the succession Wayne, Virginia Cherrill, Marguerite of horrors make its entertainment value Churchill, William Janney. Direction by of taste. entirely a matter Seymore Felix. Fox. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. The theme roughly summarized is, No. Decidedly not. “What happens at a small college when Motion Picture Reviews Five boys try to rid the school of coeds.” Un- LITTLE CAESAR. Edward R. Robinson, fortunately (unless past graduates are Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. Direction by not sufficiently up to date to appreciate Mervyn Le Roy. First National. a modem setting) the college spirit, life, is the rise of one and students depicted seem very shallow, This the story of Caesar Rico from a small town bandit a little silly, and thoroughly untrue to to assistant ruler of the underworld. college traditions. It is not recommend- Caesar, as interpreted with start- ed as being entertaining fare. Little ling realism by Mr. Robinson, is an ex- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. ceedingly vain and ruthless individual, No. No. who finally loses his battle against society through injured ego. Like most- plays of gangland, this includes the plot- WILD. Joe E. Brown. Direction GOING tings, the robberies, the killings and the by Wm. Seiter. First National. argot common to the type. It is a clever This is another version of “The Avi- interpretation of gangster activities and ator” the story concerning the mis- the miserable lesson to be recognized, adventures of a young and brash re- but it isn’t entertainment. porter who is mistaken for a retiring Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. and reticent world famous writer and No: of no value. No. aviator. He continues the impersonation, only to find himself forced to fly and the resulting absurdities form hilarious nonsense. LONELY WIVES. Edward Everett Hor- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. ton, Laura La Plante, Patsy Ruth Miller. Probably very Funny and Direction by Russel Mack. Pathe. amusing. harmless. A graceless farce with Mr. Horton as a roving husband who hires a vaudeville INSPIRATION. Greta Garbo, Robert impersonator to substitute for him in eluding his mother-in-law. A “bed-room Montgomery, Lewis Stone. Direction, comedy” of this type undoubtedly appeals Clarence Brown. M.G.M. to some audiences, but the dialogue is The forced and over-worked story of so incredibly coarse that it will be ac- the woman with a past (in this case an tually offensive to many persons, and we artist’s model), who falls deeply in love warn our readers that Mr. Horton has with an innocent young art student, allowed his talent to be used in one of serves as the latest vehicle to exploit the the most vulgar farces to be released in alluring and subtle charm of Greta months. Garbo. Even the noteworthy cast and Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. excellent direction cannot wholly redeem Absolutely not. No. the weakly moving play, an echo of many and better predecessors, as it toils on its way to the silent, final scene of renunciation, raised far beyond its dramatic merits by the heart breaking poig- MAN TO MAN. Phillip Holmes. Lucille nancy of the star’s acting. The theme Powers. Direction by Allan Dwan. War- is unsuitable for junior audiences. ner Brothers. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. This simple unpretentious comedy No. No interest. achieves distinction because of the manner of its presentation. It is the story of a really lovable small town boy who THE LASH. Richard Barthelmess, Mary cannot rise above the disgrace of his Astor. Adapted from the novel “Adios” father’s prison term, although the father is respected in his community and by Lanier and Virginia Bartlett. Direc- the crime was more or less excusable. tion by Frank Lloyd. First National. The father is finally redeemed in the A romance of early California, in son’s eyes, (but it seems almost as which a young Spanish Don turns ban- essential that the son should be equally dit to avenge the wrongs of his people. redeemed in the father’s.) The charac- It is full of action, good riding and gun ter types are excellently portrayed and play, and is fair entertainment. it is very human in its appeal. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 1 2to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Probably entertaining. Fair. Good. If it interests. — —

Six Motion Picture Reviews

MANY A SLIP. Joan Bennett, Lew OUTWARD BOUND. Douglas Fair- Ayres. Direction by Vin Moore. Uni- banks, Jr., Helen Chandler, Leslie How- versal. ard — and all star support. From the This worthless attempt at farce limps play by Sutton Lane. Direction by Rob- painfully along by way of stupid in- ert Milton. Warner Brothers. nuendo and incredible transgressions of “Outward Bound” is unique portray- good taste on the subject of expected a al of the beginning of life after death. motherhood. It is unsuitable in theme Deftness in acting and direction cre- for junior audiences and too hopelessly delicate in no dull for adults. ates a atmosphere which way offends your beliefs or your sensi- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, to 12. 8 bilities. The play concerns the passage No. No. of a number of recently deceased persons to their ultimate destination. Each, MOTHER’S CRY. Dorothy Peterson, though he does not realize it, creates his own Heaven or hell. The delineation Helen Chandler, David Manners. Adapt- of character is so successful that you ed from Helen Grace Carliale’s novel of agree with the judgments rendered by the same name. Direction by Allan the “Examiner”. Interest centers about Dwan. First National. two attempted suicides who share the experience with the others, realizing the Here is a story of a mother’s love mistake they have made, but who are and sacrifice in rearing four children. saved for this life, knowing that suicide The tragedy which envelops two of them is not the solution of their problems. It is mitigated by the joy, comfort and is preeminently a play for a discrimi- peace which the other give her. two The nating audience of adults and mature ad- theme is well developed and directed and olescents. Even those who are inclined while suitable and interesting for adults toward religious dogmas will find it is heavy farce for adolescents because of thought provoking. its pathos. “Who seeks for heaven alone to Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. save his soul Too tragic. No. May keep the path, but still not reach the goal; While he who walks in love NO LIMIT. Clara Bow, Stuart Irwin, may wander far, Harry Green. Direction by Frank Tuttle. Yet God will lead him Paramount. where the blessed are.” Except for those who will be dis- Henry Van Dyke. appointed because the title promises Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. more than the picture gives, adult audi- A matter of taste. Too mature. ences will generally enjoy “No Limit”. Clara Buw is suitably cast as a movie uslwrette who unknowingly marries a THE PAINTED DESERT. William Far- crook and the unassuming story is enter- num, J. Farrell MacDonald, Helen It is smoothly directed, well taining. Twelvetrees, William Boyd. Direction by photographed, and has amusing comedy. Howard Higgen. Photography, Ed Sny- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. der. Pathe. Passable. Theme unsuitable: This has an interesting story of the Little interest. men, who have been o way in which two — enemies for years, are reunited in friend- ONCE A SINNER. Dorothy Mackaill, ship. It is a gorgeous western, presented John Holliday. Direction by Guthrie with the natural beauty of the Painted McClintic. Fox. Desert as background, novel in plot, and with well developed suspense and action. Badly directed and poorly acted, we It is very entertaining. must again review a picture based on 12. the much used theme, “Is a woman’s Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to past her own?” Certainly, neither enter- Excellent in interest. Good. tainment nor convincing proof either pro —o or con, is offered by this dull, stupid film. RESURRECTION. Lupe Velez, John Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Boles. Adapted from the novel by Count Unsuitable. No interest. Leo Tolstoy. Direction by Edwin Car- Motion Picture Reviews Seven ewe. Photography by Bob Kurrle. Uni- the eminent cast and satisfactory direc- versal. tion. This is a fairly interesting revival of Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Tolstoy’s well known and tragic story, Yes, if interested. No interest. its theme—love, suffering, and spiritual resurrection. It is sincerely presented and is well acted. The subject is for THE SPY. Kay Johnson, Neil Hamilton, adult appreciation only. Direction by Berthold Viertel. Fox. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. This is a serio-comedy of great human No, too sophisticated. No. interest though probably more imagin- ative than realistic. It concerns the activities of the “Tcheka”, a Soviet secret service system, in apprehending those THE ROYAL BED. Lowell Sherman, who threaten the existence of the State. The case with which the picture inter- Nance O’Neill, Mary Astor. From the ests us, is that of an exiled Czarist Robt. play “The Queen’s Husband” by whose wife and son remain in Russia. Lowell Sher- E. Sherwood. Direction by Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. man. R.K.O. Of probable interest. Too mature orginal and The Queen’s husband (the and exciting. far more appropriate title of the play) belies appearances and proves himself very much a King. He adroitly solves TRADER HORN. Harry Carey, Duncan the political crisis by installing the Renaldo, Edwina Booth. Based on the leader of the rebels as his Prime Minis- book by Ethelreda Lewis. Direction by ter and flounts domestic traditions by marrying his daughter to the secretary, W. S. Van Dyke. M.G.M. instead of to the dissolute Prince, who Every writer of adventure seems is left waiting for his bride on the eclipsed by this thrilling production, for Cathedral steps. Mildly satirical in tone, few imaginations are vigorous enough it is a pleasant comedy with excellent to visualize equatorial Africa as “Trader direction and a capable cast. Horn” pictures it. It is different, as- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. tounding, entertaining! The scenic backgrounds are breath taking; the Possible. Not interesting unusual and often frightful scenes of wild jungle animals are caught with superb photo- graphic effect; the native savage witch- THE ROYAL FAMILY OF BROAD- craft, or ju-ju, seems entirely in har- country. WAY. Ina Claire, Fredric March, Mary mony with the wildness of the Sound is an unforgettable adjunct. The Brian, Henrietta Crossman. From the elements of drama which are introduced play by E. Ferber and G. S. Kaufman. in the story, incredible as it may seem, Direction by G. Cukor and C. Gardner. contrive only to increase the impression Paramount. of reality. The casting is excellent and the direction and assembling of the ma- A clever comedy, full of wit, humor terial are uniquely satisfying. It is a and more than a touch of pathos, por- great picture for the timid who take trays the dominating urge to act, which their adventure second-hand, or for the is innate with members of the Cavendish daring who appreciate it the more be- family, famous actors for three gener- cause of their own experience. The edu- ations. They colour every off-stage situ- cational value must not be overlooked in ation with the glow of the foot-lights, recommending it for older school children each plays his life as a role, and when who cannot fail to get an enduring family pride or the theatre says “On visual impression of this amazing and with the play”, no sacrifice of health, yet real environment. affairs of the heart or personal inclin- ations can outweight their loyalty to the Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. trouper’s instinct. Praiseworthy also are Excellent. Very exciting.

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

MARCH 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 SOUTH HOOVER STREET

Telephone DRexel 2177

Webbcraft Printers, 1851 Arlington Ave., Los Angeles —

Motion Picture Reviews Three MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall

Vol. II. No. 3 MARCH, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per year.

FEATURE FILMS

CHARLIE CHAN CARRIES ON. War- ably less enjoyable than his earlier ner Oland, Marguerite Churchill. From films; but still Chaplin is the great master of pantomimic art. the story by E. D. Biggers. Direction Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. by Hamilton McFadden. Fox. Yes. Possible. This mystery story of “Saturday Evening Post” renown, proves itself almost as good as a screen thriller. Ex- CIMMARRON. Richard Dix, Irene cellent contrast to the tense action and Dunne. From the novel by Edna Ferber. many moments of suspense is afforded Direction by Wesley Ruggles. R.K.O. by that lovable fount of quaintly garb- A sincere and colorful transcription to led proverbs, the very intelligent Mr. the screen of Edna Ferber’s novel of the Charlie Chan, pride of the Honolulu Oklahoma land rush days. The theme police force. Mr. Oland’s interesting traces the lives of Yancey Cravat and characterization of the part is name his wife, Sabra, from their early experi- heightened a good supporting cast by ences as pioneers to their lives of the and capable direction. We recommend it present day, and along with them the highly for lovers of this type. growth and development of a modem Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. city from a rough pioneer frontier town. Yes. Too exciting. Mr. Dix and Miss Dunne give splendid performances. Their characterizations, o — with others in the cast, through the CITY LIGHTS. Charlie Chaplin. United forty-one years of the period, are un- Artists. usually satisfying. The scenic effects, especially that of the lineup for the rush, In the full flood of “talkies” Mr. Chap- are sweeping and stupendous. Based for lin reappears in his long awaited new, the most part on historical fact, and silent film. So consummate is his art, skillfully executed, the picture makes an that with the lack him of speech passes interesting entity which can be highly unnoticed, and sound is used effectively recommended for the entertainment of provoke even to laughter at the expense the family. of the “talkies”. As for the story, all the elements of the Chaplin formula are Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. present, humor, pathos in his self-sacri- Excellent. Too long, and too mature ficing devotion to the blind flower girl, to hold interest through-out. the hearty vulgarity of clowning — in short, that alternation between hilarity A CONNECTICUT YANKEE. Will and tears which is the essence of his Rogers. Direction by David Butler. Fox. genius. For junior audiences, it is prob- A delightfully fantastic tale in which — ——

Four Motion Picture Reviews a Connecticut Yankee, tinkering with a FINN AND HATTIE. Leon Erroll, Zazu radio set, finds himself in the court of Pitts, Mitzi Green. Direction by Norman King Arthur. This new picture featur- Taurog, and Norman McCloud. Adapted ing Will Rogers, supported by a talented cast, is a magnificent comedy based on from story “Mr. and Mrs. Haddock Mark Twain’s well known story. Its Abroad,” by Donald Ogden Stewart. splendor of production and perfection of Paramount-Publix. detail, together with the rich humor This is a comedy treated in farcical which the comedian never fails to supply, manner relating the troubles which a make it a film which undoubtedly will be man experiences when he travels with outstanding in entertainment value for his family to Paris. On the whole it is all audiences. fairly amusing, tho considering the Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, ,8 to 12. talented cast, many opportunities for Excellent. Yes. really humorous comedy have been overlooked. Its value as wholesome enter- o — tainment will be largely a matter of THE CONQUERING HORDE. Richard taste. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Arlen, Fay Wray. From the story by Not recommended. Not recommended. Emerson Hough. Direction by Edward Sloman. Paramount-Publix. —o Just after the civil war, the Texas EAST LYNNE. Ann Harding, Clive cattle owners, harassed by corrupt Brook, Conrad Nagel. Direction by State officers, were in carpet-bagger Frank Lloyd. Fox. hard straits for a market for their first nearly cattle, until they hit upon the courageous “East Lynne” appeared solution of driving them north to Abi- seventy years ago but still holds appeal in its tearfully sentimental story of the lene, Kansas, the then farthest outpost tradition of social order. of the Union Pacific railroad. The story a man-made Miss Harding’s beauty and great charm of that first northward driven herd is are doubt largely responsible for the here presented in adventurous and ro- no mantic fashion with the owner in the success of its revival. role of the heroine, and the government Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. secret agent as the hero and guide of Of doubtful interest. Too mature. expedition. The director makes the the o most of the opportunities of the story, — and the result is excellent entertainment ILLICIT. Barbara Stanwyck. Direction for all the family. by Archie Mayo. Warner Bros. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. This is a daring but entertaining 1931 Excellent. Excellent. edition of an “ultra-modem” young woman’s ideas of and about marriage. She believes that marriage kills love, but finally bows to the accepted social order. Harlan, FINGER PRINTS. Kenneth The beautiful and magnetic Miss Stan- Edna Murphy. Henry MacRae Produc- wyck gives an excellent performance tions, direction by Ray Taylor. (10 chap- noteworthy for its naturalness and charm. The subject is uninteresting for ters. All previewed). Universal. children and is not particularly advis- Opening with a murder, with four able for adolescents but will interest persons under suspicion because of logi- adults who enjoy “problem plays”. cal motive, the action is concerned with Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. discovery of the guilty person by means No. No. of finger prints. The production is typi- —o cal of its type but more melodramatic IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE. Norman necessary and sensational than seems Foster, Carole Lombard. Adapted from even for a serial. The theme and action the play by Cooper McGrue and Walter for immature make it quite unsuitable Hackett. Direction by Frank Tuttle. audiences. Paramount-Publix. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. A farce-comedy, verging frequently on Not recommended and By no means, the slapstick, concerns a rich man’s son of doubtful interest. who is resolved to give his father serious — —

Motion Picture Reviews Five competition in the soap business. The Henderson Clarke. Direction by John humor is clean, the picture light, quick Francis Dillon. R.K.O. moving, and sufficiently amusing to provide mild entertainment for any audi- A drab and sordid drama about a ence. woman who cannot stand up under dis- illusionment in marriage and sinks to Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. the lowest levels of society, finally kill- Yes. Probably amusing. ing a former lover to save her daughter. —o There may be persons who will enjoy its cheapness, but its unpleasant story can- JUNE MOON. Jack Oakie, Frances Dee. not be recommended for discriminating Direction by Edward Sutherland. Para- audiences. mount-Publix. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. This comedy depicts a would-be song By no means. No. writer from Schenectady who is deceived o by the tinsel and glamour of New York — life, and who is finally reclaimed and MOTHER’S MILLIONS. May Robson. taken home by the girl he loves. The lines are rather clever, the picture for Direction by James Flood. Liberty Pro- the most part is wholesomely humorous, duction. and no doubt will furnish an hour’s The inimitable Miss Robson is a real pleasant light entertainment. delight in this revival of the “semi- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. classic” of the stage. As a kind hearted Passable. No interest. old martinet she estranges her children Spartan training, sets Wall street o by her — ajog, and storms through law suit after KISMET. Otis Skinner. Direction by law suit, but wins all hearts eventually. John Francis Dillon. First National. It is a very entertaining production, excellently cast through-out, well directed, This play, set in ancient Bagdad, con- and thoroughly amusing. cerns an eventful day in the life of Hajj, the beggar. Mr. Skinner skillfully por- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. trays Hajj as an unpardonable rogue Good. Yes. who begs, steals, loves, and kills with an o equally easy grace. He accepts the vi- — cissitudes of his life with the spirit of MR. LEMON OF ORANGE. El Brendel, the faithful Mohammedan whose religion teaches an acceptance of “Kismet” or Fifi Dorsay. Direction by John C. Bly- fate. The production is interesting and stone. Fox. sophisticated and may be recommended Another burlesque on gangster activi- for a critical adult audience. ties in which mistaken identities provide Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. the motive for the clowning and the ac- Too sophisticated. No. tion. It is not sufficiently well done to be taken seriously, nor funny enough to be considered entirely from its farcical A LADY REFUSES. Betty Compson, aspect. It provides very thin entertain- Gilbert Emery. Direction by George ment. Archainbaud. R.K.O. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Sir Gerald befriends a girl of the Not recommended. Not recommended. streets and enters into a bargain to have her win back his son from drink and another adventuress. A sordid murder and OTHER MEN’S WOMEN. Mary Astor, final sacrifice by the woman form the climax. The production skirts censor- Regis Toomey, Grant Withers. Direction ship successfully but is admittedly of the by William Wellman. Warner. “sex-drama” type, enjoyment of which A trivial story of a man who falls in must be a matter of taste. love with his best friend’s wife. It has Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. little to recommend it, although the No. No. title is possibly more suggestive than o — the story merits.

MILLIE. Helen Twelvetrees, Robert Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Ames. Adapted from novel by Donald No, of no value. Unsuitable. —— —

Six- Motion Picture Reviews

PARLOR, BEDROOM AND BATH. Good acting, the attractive personalitv Buster Keaton, Charlotte Greenwood. of the leads, and the glamorous settings unfortunately tend to obscure the trend From the play by C. W. Bell and M. of this melodramatic, unwholesome and Swan. Direction by Edward Sedgwick. rather silly story. A girl with doubtful M.G.M. morals and a boy who has stolen $20,000, This very broad slapstick grows wilder go to Palm Beach to spend the ill gotten and wilder as it reels on and on and on, wealth in one luxurious fling before they through bumping, tumbling, falling, commit suicide. Fate, in the form of a hugging and chasing scenes, which even generous millionaire, saves them from as such are better than the unsavory too cruel a punishment. We do not story. Buster Keaton seems unusually recommend this for susceptible audi- dull, in spite of the many funny gags, ences, or for that matter for too critical while Charlotte Greenwood, though in- ones. finitely more spontaneous and amusing Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. than the others, is not nearly so enter- No. No. taining as we remember her on the stage. —o The tempo is swift physically, but slow mentally. LTNFAITHFUL. Ruth Chatterton, Paul Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Lukas. Direction by John Cromwell. Waste of time. No. Paramount-Publix. —o This is an unconvincing and thoroughly unpleasant story of a woman’s sacrifice THE SEAS BENEATH. George O’Brien, of her reputation when the sacrifice Marion Lessing. From story by James seems illogical and useless. Miss Chatter- Parker, Jr. Direction by John Ford. ton’s fine acting, the charming sets and Photography by Joseph August. Fox. care in detail, and good direction cannot make the picture interesting or enter- An entertaining and romantic descrip- taining. tion of the part played in the World Children, 8 to 12. War of the so called “mystery ships” Adolescents, 12 to 16. which were secretly equipped to destroy Unsuitable. No. enemy submarines. The historical accur- —o acy of the details may be questioned but the spirit of the adventure, the ex- THE W PLAN. Brian Abeme, George cellently photographed action and novel Merritt. Directed by Victor Saville. Els- plot it make exciting and interesting for tree Productions (English). Distributed all audiences. by R.K.O. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. With war again depicted in all its Good. Yes. But exciting. splendor and its horrors, this story glorifies a British spy who succeeds in des- troying an intricate German plan of THE SOUTHERNER (or “The Prodi- campaign. It is a war picture of merit, gal”?). Lawrence Tibbett, Esther Ral- quite convincingly and sincerely done, ston. Direction by Harry Pollard. M.G.M. with great fidelity to detail, if in spots, A musical melodrama which is the unduly drawn out. story of an irresponsible son of a rich Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children 8 to 12. southern family who assumes the role of Probably of interest. Too mature and a “hobo” and later finds romance when exciting. he realizes his love for his worthless o brother’s wife. The picture is disappoint- — ing in that it is slow moving, hackneyed, Short Subjects and poorly directed, and serves as an inadequate vehicle for Mr. Tibbett’s glori- SKY PILOT. A Grantland Rice Sport- ous voice and spontaneity of action light. Pathe. which are its only justification. An interesting picture of skiers—first Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. in the Rockies in sand, then regular Passable. Too mature. winter skiing at Lake Placid, featuring —o the great Olympic jump — excellenty photographed; then the new sport of STOLEN HEAVEN. Nancy Carroll, water skiing. It will entertain all, es- Phillip Holmes. Direction by George Ab- pecially those interested in this particu- bott. Paramount-Publix. lar sport. — —

Motion Picture Reviews Seven SHORT SUBJECTS

DIXIE CHASE. Grantland Rice Sport- PLAYFUL PAN. A Silly Symphony. light. Pathe. Walter Disney Corp. Columbia. A picture depicting a famous North Pan plays and all nature dances to his Carolina hunt which will no doubt pro- music. A charming whimsicality is all voke some argument as to its recom- pervading, and both the story and pro- mendation for children as one senses the duction are wholly delightful. Recom- idea of unfair sporting tactics. mended for everyone. —o KING OF BUGS. Aesop Fable. Pathe. SHOOTING OF DAN, THE DUCK. A cartoon with musical accompani- Clyde Cooke, Education Pictures, Inc. ment, which, though rather cleverly A mediocre slapstick comedy of no drawn, is pointless and without humor. particular appeal. Totally uninteresting Children will probably enjoy it. to any critical intelligence. —o MONKEY WHOOPEE. Produced by SPIRIT OF SHOGUN. Vagabond Ad- Talking Picture Epics. venture with Tom Terris. Pathe. This is an entertaining and instructive A travelogue showing interesting bits film for anyone who enjoys a visit to of Japan, which will entertain and be the monkey cage. Mr. Ditmars of the worth while for all audiences. New York Zoo explains the various o types of monkeys as their pictures are — screened, which adds greatly to the TIGERS OF THE DEEP. A Grantland interest. Recommended for all. Rice Sportlight. Pathe. Deop sea fishing off Miami, Florida, giving one an excellent idea of the PATHE AUDIO REVIEW No. 1. sport —excellently photographed and inter- Two diversified subjects; one of the esting throughout. For all audiences. “Highways of Yesterday", a beautiful o and quaint picture of an old Pennsyl- — vania canal now to be “retired” from ac- TOY TOWN TALE. An Aesop Fable tive service; the other of modem Har- cartoon. Pathe. lem with its vulgar night club scenes. This is a charming cartoon in which The two subjects are quite unsuitable a toy shop comes to life with dancing, as companion pictures. singing and acrobatics enough to please —o everyone. PATHE AUDIO REVIEW No. 2. Three short subjects: an interesting UNDER COVER. A Grantland Rice study of fish; the Ford collection of old Sportlight. Pathe. historical buildings and accurate re- Champions of various indoor sports productions at Green Field, Michigan; are shown in exhibition games of and modern German Frauleins in inter- billiards, squash, ping-pong, badminton pretative dances. All interesting. and skating. Interesting for all lovers of —o sport. o PETE AND REPEAT. Educational. — A fairly entertaining slap-stick ZIDER ZEE. Tom Terriss Vagabond comedy. Two colored blacksmiths, un- Series. Pathe. willingly exchange clothes with two es- An interesting glimpse of Holland. caped convicts. A chase ensues which is Suitable and entertaining for all audi- lacking in art but not in humor. Family ences. film. —o WELLS OF FORTALEZA. A Tom Ter- PIONEER DAY. Mickey Mouse Car- riss Vagabond Adventure. Pathe.. toon. Walter Disney Corp. Columbia. Bits of interest in Porto Rico. This A rollicking travesty of those pioneer travelogue has the usual beauty of films, so plentiful of late. It is a little photography and spirit of adventure that vulgar but still good entertainment. typify the series. Of interest to all.

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

APRIL 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 SOUTH HOOVER STREET

Telephone DRexel 2177

Webbcraft .Printers, 1851 Arlington Ave., l/os Angeles — —

Motion Picture Reviews Three MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OP UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall

Vol. II. No. 4 APRIL, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per year.

FEATURE FILMS

BACHELOR APARTMENT. Lowell BEYOND VICTORY. William Boyd, Lew Sherman, Irene Dunne. Story by J. H. Cody. Direction by John Robertson. Lawson. Direction by Lowell Sherman. Pathe. R. K. 0. The picture deals with the experiences of four American soldiers who are This frothy bit of naughtiness is but left in a town to hold off the enemy the gay fulfillment of the title, with all while a gap in the lines is being filled. its implications of illicit situations and The plot is further developed show- suggestive repartee. Though the wealthy by ing cross sections of their lives and how and philandering bachelor is won even- they to enlist. realism the tually by the good, young stenographer, came The of war scenes and the dramatic heroism of the picture is too thoroughly risque to the men does not make up for the poor- please any but a most sophisticated ly connected story which slowly audience. Mr. Sherman directs as suave- moves and lacks the continuity essential to ly as he acts and is to be congratulated make a picture of this type convincing. on his dual capabilities. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Not recommended. No. No. No interest. —o —O— BODY AND SOUL. Elissa Landi, Charles Farrell. From the stage play BAD SISTER. Conrad Nagel, Sidney “Squadrons” by Elliott White Springs Fox. Direction by Hobart Henley. Uni- and A. E. Thomas. Direction by Alfred versal. Santell. Fox. love story This is an adaptation from Booth Tar- A human and dramatic kington’s book “The Flirt” and though against a war time background, well not as convincing, presents an interest- acted, and holding suspense and inter- ing story of a spoiled young daughter of est. It is primarily a story for adult a small town family who, in attempting appreciation because it is a study of to satisfy her own selfish whims in war hysteria and the moral standards generally believed a part of that psy- search for something out of the hum- chology, and it is doubtful what glamor- drum, nearly succeeds in disrupting the ous interpretation young people might calm, peaceful atmosphere of her home. place upon it. Frankly it would have if The picture is well done and depicts been as good a story the love affair had not been made to appear illicit and American life in a life-like, homely and if the producer had not felt it necessary familiar manner. to further emphasize it in the title. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Yes. Probably amusing. Better not. No. — —

Four Motion Picture Reviews

DISHONORED. Marlene Dietrich, Vic- FATHER’S SON. Leon Janney, Lewis tor McLaglen, Warner Oland, Lew Cody. Stone, Irene Rich, John Halliday. Adapt- Story and direction by J. von Sternberg. ed from story by Booth Tarkington. Di- Paramount-Publix. rection by William Beaudine. First This intense, harrowing story of a National. beautiful Austrian spy, X-27, moves Bill is a “regular” kid, for whom consistently and inevitably to its tragic Father’s loving but stem discipline seems end. Miss Dietrich plays superbly the too severe. It is a very human little role of a Viennese street girl, turned spy story which once appeared as a silent in war time, who serves her country film entitled “Boy o’ Mine”. It will be loyally until she has effected the capture especially thought provoking for parents of a Russian counter-spy. Only then but it is really entertaining for everyone. does she realize that her love for him The boy is delightful and John Halliday means more than other loyalties, so con- in a minor role, is outstanding. nives at his escape, even though she Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. must pay for this treason with death Good. Good. before the firing squad. The direction —o is meticulous to the last detail and much Richard Arlen, praise is due for the general impression GUN SMOKE. Mary of dramatic unity and verity. Brian. Direction by Edward Sloman. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Paramount-Publix. Too harrowing. No. This is another instance of a good cast —o being wasted on a very amateurish production which is a poor combination of DOCTORS’ WIVES. Warner Baxter, western melodrama and modem gangster Joan Bennett, Victor Varconi. Novel by realism. A group of racketeers settle in a western town where the ring leader H. and S. Lieferant. Direction by Frank learns of a chance of “making” money. Borzage. Fox. There follows the serial type of blood- From the very beginning of their shed and horror with exaggerated action, married life, Nina resents the devotion forced humor, and outrageous abuse of of her surgeon husband to his profession, good taste in order to achieve exciting more especially to his feminine patients. episodes. There is no redeeming feature For consolation of her imagined wrongs, which can make its recommendation she turns to Dr. Ruyter, her husband’s possible for any audience. assistant, who nobly sacrifices his own Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. love for her, and persuades her to be- No. No. come a student nurse. During her train- —o ing Nina is cured of her jealousy by this LOVERS. Claudette insight into the truths of doctors’ lives. HONOR AMONG A capable cast and good direction add Colbert, Frederic March. Direction by their share to the entertainment. Dorothy Arzner. Paramount-Publix. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. In spite of a talented cast “Honor Doubtful. No interest. Among Lovers” fails to live up to expectations and becomes just another tri- o — angle affair. It is the story of a girl, DON’T BET ON WOMEN. Edmund loved by two men, who is unfortunate in Lowe, Roland Young, Jeannette Mac- her choice and has an unhappy time until her life is readjusted. It is directed in Merkel. Direction by Donald, Una good taste, but does not hold great inter- William Howard. Fox. est throughout. A very amusing comedy in which a Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. wager between two men provokes un- Not recommended. Unsuitable. o expectedly embarrassing complications. — It is modern and sophisticated in its IT’S A WISE CHILD. Marion Davies, treatment, with witty dialogue and fin- Sidney Blackmer. Direction by Robert ished acting by a delightful cast. Good Z. Leonard. M.G.M. taste in direction also adds distinction This is a sophisticated romantic comedy bordering at times on the risque, to the hour’s entertainment. and yet sufficiently exaggerated to be Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. quite humorous, which is full of vivacity, Possibly amusing. Little interest. charm, and wholesome fun. A young — —

Motion Picture Reviews Five girl is freed from an undesirable en- MAN OF THE WORLD. William Powell, gagement to an elderly banker when she Carole Lombard, Wynne Gibson. Story attempts to get her brother out of diffi- by Michael Arlen. Directed by R. Wallace culties and throws a wrong supposition Paramount-Publix. upon herself. The picture moves with and E. Goodman. quick tempo, and is well acted and very Though not edifying, it is engrossing entertaining through-out. However, in to watch William Powell’s vital charac- spite of so-called “proper” situations, terization of an American ex-newspaper- the suggestiveness of the lines renders man who is gaining his livelihood in its recommendation doubtful for younger Paris by blackmailing rich Americans audiences. who have yielded indiscretely to the temp- tations of certain primrose: paths. When Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. innocent Hardly. No. he meets and loves an young —o girl, it is too late for him to undo his past career and so pathetically, logically KIKI. Mary Pickford, Reginald Denny. he continues on his pirate way. The From the play by David Belasco. Direc- supporting cast is good and the direction tion by Sam Taylor. United Artists. satisfactory. “Kiki” won success as a stage play Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. because an unusual and naturally vibrant Doubtful. Not interesting. personality presented it. Miss Pickford 0 makes a studied effort to accomplish the

1 same illusion but the result is forced. MEN CALL IT LOVE . Adolphe Menjou, The role shows her versatility but is so Leila Hyams. Direction by Edgar Sel- foreign to her type that it is unconvinc- wyn. M.G.M. ing. The theme concerns the hoydenish An unpleasantly realistic drama and risque manners of a French chorus stressing emphatically the infidelities girl to achieve romance. found in modem marriage, and utilizing Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. an excellent cast to present once more Not recommended. No. the well-worn triangle and double stan- —o dard problem with some variations but KISS ME AGAIN. Edward Everett Hor- all of their sophistications. The material and action make it absolutely unsuitable ton, Bernice Claire, Walter Pigeon. War- for immature audiences. ner Brothers. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. This picture, adapted from Victor Not recommended. No. Herbert’s “Mile. Modiste”, though ex- o quisitely photographed in color through- — out, succeeds in being only a very feeble THE MILLIONAIRE . George Arliss, attempt at a musical romance. Perhaps David Manners, Evelyn Knapp. Direc- the chief disappointment lies in the fact that Edward Everett Horton, advertised tion by John Adolphi. Warner. as the star, is merely given an incidental A charming story of a bored millionaire, retired and invalided by a doctor’s part. The scene laid in Paris, presents orders, who finds new interests and new the well-worn theme of the aristocratic joy in living. It is delightfully present- old father who refuses to give his con- ed by Mr. Arliss and an excellent cast. sent to his son’s marriage to a young Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. girl of no means but with a supposedly Recommended. Good. beautiful voice. Her meteor-like rise to —o fame is unconvincing because of her in- NOT EXACTLY GENTLEMEN. Victor adequate singing. The usual happy end- McLaglen, Lew Cody, Fay Wray. From ing obtains, of course, and all that oc- the novel “Over The Border” by Herman curs in the meantime fails to sustain the Whitaker. Direction by Benjamin Sto- is mildly interest and only occasionally loff. Fox. entertaining, for the simple reason that The opening of the free lands of the it is strangely lacking in all the ele- Dakotas in the early 70’s provides the ments that go toward “putting over” a background for thrilling melodrama in which three outlaws rescue a girl in good musical play. distress, and in spite of themselves be- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. come her protectors. The exciting situ- Harmless. No interest. ations and gripping action are relieved by —— —

Six Motion Picture Reviews good fun, providing a really entertain- Parrott. Direction by George Fitz- ing picture which will no doubt appeal maurice. M.G.M. to the whole family. Those who enjoy the ultra in scintil- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. lating sophistication will be pleased with Entertaining. Exciting. “Strangers May Kiss”. The acting, di- o rection and mechanical details may well — be extolled, but the theme, a delineation SIT TIGHT. Joe E. Brown, Winnie of the single standard, is the thing with Lightner. Direction by Lloyd Bacon. which most women will take issue. The Warner. question of impropriety is not as important as the attractive manner in A rollicking slap stick comedy in which it is presented, so attractive, in- which the comedians open a fake health deed, that the average feminine play- sanatarium and promote a wrestling goer will feel like a mud-hen by com- match between the champion and an parison. Psychologically, this is bad amateur. The plot is thin, but there are enough for one of seasoned morals; for many laughs for those who enjoy slap adolescents it is impossible. stick. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Pernicious. No. Amusing. Harmless and —o probably funny. —o SUBWAY EXPRESS. Jack Holt. Aileen Pringle. From play by Eva K. Flint and SKIPPY. Jackie Cooper. Robert Coogan. Martha Madison. Direction by Fred Direction by Norman Taurog and David Newmeyer. Columbia. Burton. Paramount-Publix. A “perfect murder” by electrocution A thoroughly delightful juvenile is foiled by a scuffle and a shot which comedy which covers an episode in the brings the law into a crowded subway lives of a small boy and his friend. The car to catch the murderer. It is not little actors natural seem and at ease in quite well enough done to hold keen their roles. The is comedy good, rising interest as a mystery thriller, and har- to hilarity at times; the pathos, stirring; rowing details, not in the best of taste, the plot true to life and of considerable prevent its recommendation for sensitive depth. juniors. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Recommended. Recommended. Not elevating. No. —o —o STEPPING OUT. Charlotte Greenwood, SVENGALI. John Barrymore, Marion Reginald Denny. From play by Elmer Marsh. Adapted from the novel “Trilby” Harris. Direction by Charles Riesner. by Du Maurier. Direction by Archie M.G.M. Mayo. Warner. Another trivial farce of the slap stick John Barrymore gives a magnificent variety as a vehicle for Miss Greenwood, interpretation of Svengali, the dirty, un- whose talents deserve something better. principled rascal whose passion for It is the usual story of wives who learn Trilby and the possibilities of her voice that their husbands are philandering and makes him exert his fearful power over who by a trick of fate discover also her. The spirit of the book has been that they hold the purse strings them- caught perfectly. The story is told in selves. This soon brings the repentant excellent taste, and the well known de- husbands to their knees. Enjoyment of tails and settings of the period are pre- this type of production for adults must sented faithfully. It moves swiftly and be a matter of taste, but as a behavior dramatically to the logical ending. It pattern of family life for children it is should delight those who recall the novel, exercrable. and be highly interesting to anyone ap- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. preciating skill in acting. No. No. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. —o Rather morbid in theme. No. STRANGERS MAY KISS. Norma Shearer, Robert Montgomery, Neil A TAILOR MADE MAN. William Hamilton. From the book by Ursula Haines, Dorothy Jordan, Joseph Caw- — —

Motion Picture Reviews Seven thome. Based on the play by Harry II and Sigmund Romberg. Photograph- James Smith. Direction by Sam Wood. ed in Technicolor. Direction by Alan M.G.M. Crosland. Warner Brothers. A pants presser with a yearning for Musical romance of real charm, set high society, borrows the evening in Austria amid pomp, ceremony, and clothes of one of the shop’s customers, social caste which parts the youthful an act which influences his life beyond lovers. The action then changes to any imagining. It is a fast moving America where years later happiness is farce, absurd, but lightly amusing and promised for the next generation. The leaving a pleasant impression of opti- color, good singing, and entertaining mism with the spectator. Mr. Haines story should have general appeal. plays his usual character of braggadocio Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. hero, but has an occasional opportunity Good. Yes, if it interests. for straight comedy which he carries effectively. WIDOW FROM! CHICAGO. Edward G. Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. Harmless nonsense. Of doubtful Robinson. Alice White. Direction by interest. Edward Cline. First National. This is the story of a young woman THREE GIRLS LOST. Loretta Young, who bluffs her way into the underworld to find the gangster who murdered her John Wayne, Joyce Compton, Joan brother. The theme is interesting in its Marsh. Story by R. D. Andrews. Di- way and contains less sentimental hys- rection by Sidney Lanfield. Fox. teria than many of its type. This is the oft-told tale of three small Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. town girls who come to Chicago—in an Not recommended. No. airplane this time—and of what befalls —o them there. One is a gold digger, who Friday night perhaps a movie for the becomes involved in a murder; another a — trusting soul who discovers her lover to family ? Have you seen “A Connecti- be a married man, and the third a pure, cut Yankee”—with hilarious laughs for noble girl who finally wins the hero from all? In this month’s reviews we especi- the clutches of the gold digger. Much ally recommend “The Millionaire”, lingerie is exhibited and sex is counted on for much of the appeal. It is an “Skippy”, “Father’s Son”, or the musical average picture in every way. romance “Viennese Nights”. There is Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. also a western melodrama “Not Exactly If they insist. No interest. Gentlemen”, and “Bad Sister” is better o — than its title. VIENNESE NIGHTS. Vivienne Segal, “Dishonored” and “Svengali” are of Walter Pidgeon. By Oscar Hammerstein special interest for adult audiences. SHORT SUBJECTS CRASHING HOLLYWOOD. Virginia IN THE SHADOW OF THE DRAGON. Brooks. Direction by William Goodrich. Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure. Educational Pictures, Inc. Pathe. A wholesome and fun provoking short An artistic travel picture giving comedy in which an attractive young glimpses of Chinese life and customs. girl from Iowa, visiting her Hollywood Especially beautiful are the scenes of cousin who is an “extra” in the pictures, the Temples in Mongolia and of the provides some excitement herself when Chinese wall in its full length. she captivates a movie magnate and then deserts him at the altar for Elmer, her WHAT A TIME. Franklin Panghom. E. Iowa sweetheart. The picture is far B. Derr Production. Pathe. more artistically done than most short Slap stick comedy in which a young subjects and is delightfully amusing man gets into unsurmountable difficulties throughout without descending to vul- in an antique shop. Falling plaster, garity. broken crockery, etc., etc., It is hilarious- Adolescents, 12 to 16. Children, 8 to 12. ly amusing for children and quite harm- Recommended. Of doubtful interest. less.

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

MAY 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

Telephone DRexel 2177

W EBBCRAFT PRINTERS, 1851 ARLINGTON AVE. , LOS ANGELES 2

Motion Picture Reviews Five

of the picture, the excellent dramatic inter- more powerful in influencing weak or ad- pretations of the three leading characters, venturous youths to follow in his trail. For the spectacular destruction of the first dirig- adults who like a gang picture especially ible, are hopelessly overshadowed by the well staged and acted, it is recommended.

too-melodramatic distress in certain epi- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children 8 to 1

sodes of the latter half, which is beyond No No reasonable ground of presumption. There- 0-0 fore, though much credit should go to the IRON MAN O

production of this picture, it is not thor- Lewis Ayres, Robert Armstrong, Jean oughly convincing. Harlow. Direction by Todd Browning.

Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 Universal. Yes—excepting impres- No A rather obvious story about a prize sionable types fighter, his faithless gold-digging wife and C'KS his manager. The theme concerns the loyal THE DUDE RANCH © friendship between the two men against a Jack Oakie, Eugene Pallette, Mitzi sordid and unpleasant background. Although Green. Direction by Frank Tuttle. limited in its appeal, its redeeming feature Paramount Publix. is the characterization portrayed by Robert A rather novel combination of western Armstrong. and burlesque with a gangster idea inserted, Adolescent's, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 in which a stranded troupe of players No No attempt to eliminate the boredom of guests on a dude ranch, and become involved with KICK IN ® racketeers. It is mildly amusing, light and From the play by Willard Mack. Clara harmless fare, and will probably appeal Bow, Regis Toomey. Paramount-Publix. especially to younger persons with its swift A young man with a criminal record ex- action and entertaining episodes. periences difficulty when he attempts to re-

Adolescents, 1 2 to 1 6 Children, 8 to 1 2 adjust his life to honest paths, but his Yes Yes determination and the sincere and sympa-

C'tvS thetic assistance of his young wife make FIFTY MILLION FRENCHMEN © him win against all odds. Tense, nerve- wracking Featuring Olsen and Johnson. From the scenes of injustice, heart-breaking musical comedy by Herbert Fields. discouragements and suffering combine to Technicolor photography. Direction by make up a story which is exciting, grim, and Lloyd Bacon. Warner Bros. depressing in turns. In its denouement the picture is a criticism of our social and police This is a fast-moving farce, which as a systems, which make it so difficult for a musical comedy seemed adequate in plot. criminal to reform. Those representing the Without the music it is very light, utterly are crazy fare, and the incidents, while amusing, law depicted as hard, cruel and dishonest to say nothing of stupid: is are often sophisticated and risque. Con- — which at direct variance with the portrayal of sidered as a whole it is disappointing. the group of law-breakers who are shown Adolescents, 8 to 1 6 Children 8 to 12 Not recommended No as lovable and genuine. Such propaganda is hardly commendable; the influence of G'KS HELL BOUND • this picture will be far-reaching as it is Leo Carillo, Lloyd Hughes, Lola Lane. exceptionally well told and has intense dra- Direction by Walter Lang. James Cruze matic and emotional appeal. Production. Tiffany Pictures. Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 Not recommended If we must concede to the deplorable pro- No duction of racketeer pictures, here is one C'to above the general average. Subtle remarks LADIES’ MAN ® and suggestions prove far more effective William Powell, Kay Francis, Carole than the usually depicted gun-play and vio- Lombard. Story by Rupert Hughes. lent action. The strength of Leo Carillo’s per- Direction by Lothar Mendes. Para- sonality as a gangster is evident, but the mount. fact that he arouses the audience’s sympathy Somehow the oldest of all trades is more from the start makes the play that much repugnant when practised by a man, and 2

Six Motion Picture Reviews

consequently, the really excellent acting of It is well enough acted to entertain, but it Powell, the well-chosen, capable supporting is scarcely edifying. cast and discreet direction can not redeem Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 the generally unpleasant and decadent trend No No of the tragedy. C-KO Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, S to 1 2 QUICK MILLIONS © Demoralizing No Spencer Tracy, Marquerite Churchill. C^b-D Direction by Rowland Brown. Fox. LAUGH AND GET RICH © The production of gangster melodramas Hugh Herbert, Edna May Oliver, Dor- seems to be so rapid that their consequent othy Lee. Direction by Gregory La inadequacy is finally obliterating any re- Cava. R.K.O. deeming feature. In this instance the doubtful moral lesson that the machine gun can- A trite and rather jumbled portrayal of not successfully replace honest effort as a life in a middle-class boarding house, its humor depending for the most part upon short-cut to millions can in no way justify family bickering, unhappiness, and unad- the incoherent mess of blackmailing and murders, and the poor to a justed unsuccessful personalities. To many, attempt form continuous out of the stupid con- the commonplace, undramatic humanness of whole glomeration of episodic material. Do we some of the picture will be sufficient enter- dare hope that the occasional complete fail- tainment, but because it is true to a life ure is a prognostication of the “fade-out” which does not call for deep emotions, or of this particular type? action of any consequence, it is certain to Adolescent's, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 be somewhat passive in effect. Absolutely not No Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 Harmless, but provides Too mature O-D little of interest SECRET SIX 9 Wallace Beery, Lewis Stone, Jean Har- MEET THE WIFE © low. Direction by George Hill. Metro- Gold wyn-Mayer. Harry Myers, Laura La Plante, Lew In an apparently unceasing stream, comes Cody. Direction by A. Leslie Pearce. another picture of the conflict between or- Columbia Pictures, Inc. ganized gang activities, in this case boot- A supposedly deceased husband noncha- legging, and the forces of good citizenship, lantly reappears, causing somewhat of a mix- as represented by the “Secret Six" commit- up as his wife has married again. A lighter tee. Even though the law triumphs in the and more farcical touch was necessary to end the emphasis throughout is on the preva- make one appreciate the absurdly amusing lence and monetary success of illegal ways situations in this picture. The result is a of life. One feels uncomfortably present rather tiresome affair, moving to slow at a struggle between a puny little David of tempo, which gives a good cast a very governmental agencies and a criminal Go- adequate chance to become wasted. Because liath of gang-land. of the way in which this picture was hand- Adolescent's, 12 to 16 Children, 6 to 1 led it is rather doubtful whether younger No Decidedly not persons would be capable of discrimination, in so far as it treats marriage most casu- SEED ® ally. We cannot recommend it. From the novel by Charles A. Norris. Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 Wil- No No Genevieve Tobin, John Boles, Lois son. Directed by John Stahl. Universal. The problem of a happily married man, MY PAST ® who, having retained his ambition to write Bebe Daniels, Ben Lyon, Lewis Stone. in spite of the practicalities imposed upon Direction by Roy Del Ruth. Warner him as father of five small and active chil- Bros. dren, is lured from his home by another The story of an ex-mistress who is rein- woman, who offers him the cherished oppor- stated in conventionality by the timely di- tunity to create his novels free from the dis- vorce of her lover’s wife and the tardy tractions and responsibilities incidental to ringing of wedding bells for the heroine. his home life. This problem, together with 2

Motion Picture Reviews Seven

of dialogue, that of the wife as the tragic sufferer, com- musical score in the absence all-native cast so skill- bine to make a realistic drama of intensely and its well-known which differs funda- fully directed that the acting deserves favor- human appeal ; one mentally from Mr. Norris’ book, but which, able comment. The picture concerns the religious customs of the nevertheless, is certain to arouse sympathetic social order and the Sea Islands, particu- understanding because it is not only full natives of South forbidden love of a maiden conse- of pathos, but is true to life in many homely larly the adolescents details. Beautifully acted and well directed, crated to the Gods. Adults and will find it interesting but due to its slow it is emotional, gripping, and vital — it never its tragic ending, it scintillates. tempo, its length and children. Its appeal will be purely to adults, more cannot be passed for

1 Children, to 1 2 particularly to women, as they are espe- Adolescents, 2 to 16 8 Probably harmless cially concerned with its problems. Interesting but tedious Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 Unsuitable No c+s> e-to THE TEXAS RANGER © SIN SHIP © Buck Jones, Carmelita Geraghty. Direc- Louis Wolheim, Mary Astor, Ian Keith. tion by Ross Lederman. Columbia. Direction by Louis Wolheim. R.K.O. In this western melodrama a feud breaks The title, which is quite misleading in out between the homesteaders of a beautiful this instance, leads one to expect pure sen- valley and a syndicate of unscrupulous sationalism in a drama which is fundamen- “land-grabbers.” The heroine becomes an tally fine and lacking in anything objection- outlaw when her home is burned and her able. It is the story of a rough sea cap- father killed, but her innocence is later tain’s love for a young girl whom he be- established by the ranger who is sent out to lieves to be a paragon among women, but capture her. The picture dramatizes the who has been tainted by the sordid environ- bigness and vigor of western life. It is ment into which she has been thrust. The good of its type, but probably of greater effect of their mutual love on both of their interest to children than to adults.

lives is strongly depicted, and serves as a Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1

basis for a picture of real interest. Pre- Entertaining Interesting , if not viously reported as “preview,” Dec., 1930. too exciting

Adolescents, 1 2 to 1 6 Children, 3 to 1 2 Not recommended, very Too mature VIRTUOUS HUSBAND © serious and mature in theme Jean Arthur, Elliot Nugent. Adapted from play “Apron Strings,” by Dorrance THE SINGLE SIN ® Davis. Direction by Vin Moore. Uni- Kay Johnson, Bert Lytell, Holmes Her- versal. bert. Direction by William Nigh. Pro- This satirical comedy is entertaining, al-

duced by Phil Goldstone. though it is overdrawn. It is the story of A woman forsakes her past life, con- the adjustment of a young husband whose nected with bootlegging, to marry a man of actions toward his bride are governed en- wealth and position who is unaware of her tirely by letters written twenty years ago by secret. Whatever success this picture may an old-fashioned and dictatorial mother. If

have will be due to the excellent acting and it were a little more subtle and probable it

admirable directing, the story itself being would be better entertainment, but it is too highly melodramatic to be very con- amusing for adults.

vincing. Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2

Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 No interest No No No OSS) YOUNG SINNERS ^ TABU ® Thomas Meighan and star cast. From All native cast. Direction by F. W. the stage play by Elmer Harris. Direc-

Murnau and R. J. Flaherty. Paramount. tion by John Blystone. Fox. Tabu is different. We say this advisedly. A theme of real importance has been so The contributing factors which make it so overshadowed by a display of so-called are its beautiful scenic effects, its pleasant “flaming youth” that the reality of the Eight Motion Picture Reviews

plea will be lost to many who see this film. than upon the violations of propriety and Two children of the wealthy class without good taste, he would have contributed a sympathy or understanding from their par- forcful argument, and a more entertaining

ents, find it very difficult to find the real picture.

values in life. Had the director placed Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 greater emphasis upon their regeneration No, unwholesome No

SHORT SUBJECTS *

AUDIO REVIEW NO. 5 © CALL OF MOHAMMED © Pathe. Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure. R. K. O. -Pathe. A good Pathe showing (1) mountain Many rites and customs in India are climbing in Mexico; (2) the various and intricate machinery of this modern age; interestingly depicted. Recommended for all. (3) a comedian and trombonist in a New c+J York Cotton Club. Entertaining enough. CAMPUS CAPERS 0 An Aesop Fable. R. K. O. A delightful burlesque on college activi- AUDIO REVIEW NO. 8 © ties—very amusing. Pathe. An entertaining and instructive presenta- c+s tion of four subjects, partaking of the nature COWBOY BLUES © of a “rehearsed” newsreel film. It includes An Aesop Fable. Pathe. an interview with the original “Lord Faunt- A burlesque on the Western which is very leroy” the various devices used in radio to ; comical. It will entertain all audiences. portray the sounds of a train wreck; a jour- C'fJ ney through the canal of Osterode and a wrestling match between elephants in India. DAYS OF SOLITUDE •

G'+-S A Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure. THE BACK PACE e Pathe. Beautiful pictures of mountain climbing in George Chandler, Wheeler Oakman, the Swiss Alps, and also portrayal of a res- Virginia Brooks. Direction by William cue by the great St. Bernard dogs of that Goodrich. Educational. country. Unusually entertaining. Puerile, dull, badly acted short comedy.

c-f-S HUNTING THRILLS ® BIRDS OF A FEATHER • A Grantland Rice Sportlight. R. K. O.- A Silly Symphony cartoon. Columbia. Pathe. A very clever cartoon comedy featuring The exciting sport of capturing live alli- various kinds of birds is not only character- gators in Florida proves thrilling but har- istic but delightfully amusing with its excel- rowing entertainment. Not recommended lent syncronization. for children.

C'fJ BIRTHDAY PARTY • HURRICANE ISLAND 0 A Mickey Mouse cartoon. Columbia. A Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure The different animals perform for the picture. R. K. O. -Pathe. benefit of Mickey’s birthday in a diverting Views of Santo Domingo Island after a and entertaining way which will appeal to terrifically destructive hurricane. Interest- any audience. ing for all audiences. Motion Picture Reviews Nine

HEROES OF THE FLAMES © Pampas grass in the Argentine, and the last, Tim McCoy, Gayne Whitman, Marion “Ford’s Tribute to Edison”—The moving in Shockley. Direction by Robert F. Hill. their entirety of many famous sites of Edi- Serial in 12 episodes— all previewed. son’s discoveries to Dearborn, Michigan. All Universal. interesting and instructive. This serial is entertaining, of its type. o-o The plot concerns the struggle of a young ROUGH AND TUMBLE © fireman to perfect an instantaneous fire ex- A Grantland Rice Sportlight. Pathe. tinguisher without the loss of the formula An entertaining picture of games typical to an unscrupulous promoter who desires to of the title: wrestling, football, ice hockey, steal it. Continuous fires in every possible water polo. situation and under all conditions provide 0-0 stimulating action, but it gives an excellent portrayal of the work of the fire department SWIM OR SINK © R. O.- and the dangers and the hazards encount- Grantland Rice Sportlight. K. ered in the work of protecting human life Pathe. Weismuller. In- and property. It holds interest and has Lessons in swimming by some educational value. structive and entertaining.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 1 2 0-0 A matter of taste Exciting SPEED LIMIT • C+-!> Grantland Rice Sportlight. R.K.O.- LAUGHING GRAVY • Pathe. Laurel and Hardy. Hal Roach Produc- The various phases of speed from turtle tion. racing to airplane records. Recommended A cleverly handled farce diverting for for all. any audience. o-o 0-0 TENNIS TOPNOTCHERS • LONE STARVED RANGER © Grantland Rice Sportlight. Van Buren R. K. O. Corp. Pathe. A stuttering tramp, mistaken for a barber, An excellent analysis of tennis as taught is unwittingly made sheriff, and quite acci- and played by Vincent Richards. Recom- dentally captures the desperado. This is a mended for all. burlesque on western melodrama, quite 0-0 cleverly handled, which possesses real com- THE V/AY OF ALL FISH © edy and is suitable for any audience. R. K. O. -Pathe. 0-0 A worthless comedy dwells upon family LAND OF EVANGELINE © bickering to a point where it is agony to Talking Picture Epics, Inc. be present. A delightful glimpse of the Evangeline 0-0 country, its quaint fishing villages, produc- THOM THE UNKNOWN © tive farms and orchards, and picturesque Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure. buildings. Recommended for all. R. K. O.-Pathe. 0-0 Some views in Southern Asia which have ONE OF THE SMITHS 9 not attained the usual Tom Terriss standards. Mildly entertaining for all audiences. Charlie Chase. Hal Roach Production. An amusing farce for all ages in which 0-0 a salesman delivering musical instruments gets into hilarious situations. TRAFFIC TROUBLES 9 A Mickey Mouse Cartoon. Produced o-o by Walter Disney Studios. Columbia. PATHS AUDIO REVIEW NO. 6 ® Mickey Mouse appears as a demon taxi Pathe, Inc. driver, who takes his sweetheart for a ride, Three interesting subjects—one concern- which ends with a totally disintegrated car ing “Pigs and Pups,” another “Plumes of in the midst of a barn yard. A clean com- the Pampas,” showing fields of beautiful edy amusing for all ages. Ten Motion Picture Reviews

THE LURE OF HOLLYWOOD • by William Goodrich. Educational Pic- Virginia Brooks, George Chandler, Bry- tures, Inc.

ant Washburn. Direction by William Windy Riley attempts to put over a pub-

Goodrich. Educational. licity “stunt” by kidnapping a motion pic- A pie-throwing short of the dullest ture director, and his efforts prove nearly variety. disastrous. This comedy is vulgar, inane,

c+J> and without humor. It has no artistic merits

WINDY RILEY COES HOLLYWOOD • and as entertainment is utterly worthless. Jack Shutta, Walter Mack. Direction

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

JUNE 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

Telephone DRexel 2177

WEBBCRAFT PRINTERS, 1851 ARLINGTON AVE, . LOS ANGELES Motion Picture Reviews Three

MOTION • PICTURE • REVI EWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell

VOL. II. No. 6 JUNE, 1931 10c per Copy. $1.00 per Year

FEATURE FILMS

» » FAMILY NIGHT PROGRAMS the suggestion that only good pictures create Women’s organizations studying motion real interest. The theatre has suffered with

pictures have always recognized one phase of all other luxuries, and he now suggests that booking as their most discouraging problem. they play their best pictures on the nights We refer to the customary policy of neigh- when most people can go to the theatre. He borhood theatres, having two or more says: changes weekly, to book their poorest pictures “One of the greatest problems before the

over the week end and on holidays, reserv- industry today is to keep the public in the ing the best pictures for other days of the habit of going to pictures, not in your house

week. This has always been considered a alone, but in houses everywhere . . It is there- sound business policy of course. Theatre fore the thought of the Management that men, exhibiting pictures to provide a living, the best pictures ought to be played on the realized that Saturdays, Sundays and holiday when most people can get to your house. days drew recreation seeking crowds any- The reputation which your theatre can earn

way. The better pictures were then used by showing its best product on the days when to lure their attention on other nights, and the whole family can pass through your

the tragedy to families who found only cheap, doors together is of extreme importance. Do

dull and often viscious entertainment on not forget that the man or woman who . . can their play nights seemed to be outweighed by get to your house only on a Saturday, Sun- the thoughtless pleasure seeking crowds who day or Holiday, judges your house entirely had no discrimination anyway. It has been by what you show on those days.”

a heartbreaking condition against which This, as far as we know, is the first gesture “Better Film” committees have struggled in toward accomplishing the ideal of “Better

vain. Film Committees”. If such a policy is sound But quite accidently we recently observed financially as well as socially so much the

in a trade paper the first recognition that better — for it will help to solve the prob- another policy may be financially sound and lem of youth and the motion picture. Of

render social service at the same time. The course it is realized that all good films are

Executive-Vice-President of Fox-West Coast not family films, but many are, and it has Theaters, a very large chain throughout the been almost impossible to get any but the middle and far West, sent to his managers most exceptional managers to book these —

Four Motion Picture Reviews

special films when family audiences could other picture attendance but adds attendance enjoy them to the best advantage. on “family nights”.

One of the objectives of the recently form- If the policy of booking does change, lists ed California Motion Picture Council has of this sort should prove helpful to managers been to present to the public and to exhibitors wishing to secure the confidence and good

a monthly list of recommended family films. will of their community. These have been selected by the joint com- Recent feature films of this type approved mute representing the previewing groups of by the California Motion Picture Council

the General Federation of Women's Clubs, are : National D.A.R., National Society of New A Connecticut Yankee Fox England Women, The International Feder- The Flirt Universal ation of Catholic Alumnae and The Women's Everything’s Rosy R.K.O.-Pathe University Club. Laugh and Get Rich R.K.O.

These lists are already in demand. In a Shipmates M.G.M. smaller California city one manager places Tabu Paramount a large A in all advertising and on the Dude Ranch Paramount marqee when pictures are approved by the Cracked Nuts R.K.O. California Motion Picture Council as “good The Texas Ranger Columbia family entertainment”. He writes enthusi- The Sky Raiders Columbia astically, “It’s great! Now they know — Daddy Long Legs Fox Young Donovan’s Kid R.K.O. whatever the title they can come and bring — Skippy Paramount the kids! I’ve had all sorts of compliments The She Wolf (Mother’s Millions) ....Liberty on my plan.” It does not detract from his The Millionaire Warner Brothers O-

ADVENTURES OF PRINCE AHMED » » to fall in love with the intended victim of the Story from the Arabian Nights, told in robbery. The film is directed with cunning deftness, photographed with an eye for silhouettes. Producer: Lotte Reiniger. beauty, and played so charmingly and con- Talking Picture Epics, Inc. vincingly by Miss Landi and Mr. Stone that This unique and unusually interesting Ger- we feel safe in recommending it whole heart- man film is at once a mechanical triumph and edly for a pleasant hour of relaxation. an artistic achievement. The two tales of Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Prince of from that Ahmed and Aladdin Yes; a drama of action Too mature treasure house of fantastic narration “The and adventure Arabian Nights”, are presented by animated 0-0 silhouettes, which in intricacy and perfection of detail, beauty of conception and execution, THE BLACK CAMEL » » and poetic enchantment of background are Warner Oland, Bela Lugosi, Dorothy no less than breath-taking. In fact one is Revier. From story by Earl Derr Big- overwhelmed by the inability to see it in the full plenitude of its details, and were the gers. Direction by Hamilton McFadden. picture half as long it would probably be Fox. as enjoyable. It is a in twice new note Warner Oland gives us another of his be- films which should be seen by every student lievable and entertaining characterizations cinematographic of development. when as Charlie Chan he unravels another Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 murder mystery. The surprise element is well Yes Yes; But possibly hard sustained, and the story is very entertaining on the eyes for lovers of this type of fiction. cW Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Yes Too mature ALWAYS GOODBYE » » 0-0 Elissa Landi, Paul Cavanaugh, Lewis DADDY LONG LEGS » » Stone. Direction: Wm. C. Menzies and Janet Gaynor, Warner Baxter, K. McKenna. Fox. Una Mer- kel. From the play by Jean Webster. This is a light quite unprobable story of an impoverished girl who unwittingly be- Direction: Alfred Santell. Fox. comes the accomplice of a diamond thief, only What a pleasure it is to see a wholesome, Motion Picture Reviews Five

sweet picture, full of laughter and tears most THE GOOD BAD GIRL » » delightfully incarnating the happy spirit of Mae Clark, James Hall. Direction by Miss Webster’s well known book and play Roy Neil. Columbia. of the same name. It comes to the reviewer suspense some good acting as its as a refreshing shower in a parched waste With and of gangland and racketeer life. Both Janet only assets, another melodrama is presented Gaynor as the orphanage child, and Warner which now glorifies the “gangster’s moll.” Baxter as the wealthy trustee who befriends We are asked to believe that the title can her and sends her to college, have roles al- be true and that no past is a handicap for most perfectly suited to their capabilities. This film is a little masterpiece of the Cinderella a girl who wishes to “settle down” after her type. fling in the underworld. Mature audiences Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 will find this dull and unconvincing. We do Yes Ycs not recommend it for any half way mentality,

C'to either under or over twenty-one. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 » » THE FINGER POINTS Absolutely not No Richard Barthelmess. Direction by John Francis Dillon. First National. e-to The logical though sordid theme of this INDISCREET » » picture concerns the gradual moral disinte- gration of a decent young reporter who sells Gloria Swanson, Munroe Owsley, Ben himself to racketeers for huge sums of money. Lyon. Direction by Leo McCarey. United finally decides to free himself from When he Artists. them, the finger of the leader points to him, The comedy has a serious underlying theme placing him “on the spot”. The picture ranks high as a vehicle for Mr. Barthelmess’ sin- of a girl’s struggles to save her younger cere acting but the gangland motif limits its sister from making a mistake which she appeal to those interested in this type. herself once made. It is difficult to comment Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 on this production because personal preju- No No dice will certainly evaluate its entertainment value for most spectators. The story is treat- G'KO ed in farcical and slapstick manner with only occasionally serious moments. It is fast mov- » » THE FRONT PAGE ing in tempo, sophisticated and witty in dia- Adolph Menjou. Direction by Lewis logue, and broadly comic at times. The act- Milestone. Adapted from play. United ing is sometimes brilliant and again so exaggerated that it is merely slapstick. Miss Artists. Swanson sings delightfully without interrup- is play The picture as entertaining as the tion to the interest in the action. On the and will be popular for the same reasons. whole we commend it to everyone’s taste, but It is a fast moving, amusing comedy of news- not for children. paper men showing their unconquerable de- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 votion to, and enthusiasm for their work. The Not recommended No- cast is excellent, the lines and situations are very funny, and the direction all that can be desired. Men, particularly, will enjoy it. c+s Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Possibly, but pretty No-; unsuitable LAUGHING SINNERS » » strong Joan Crawford, Clark Goble, Neil Hamilton. Adapted from the play “The Torch Song”. Direction by Harry GOD'S GIFT TO WOMEN » » Beaumont. M.G.M. Frank Fay, Laura LaPlant. This is a very sordid drama of a woman’s Warner Bros. moral struggle and eventual salvation A fast moving farce in which a notorious through the influence of the Salvation Army. “Don Juan” promises to give up his former It is not a pleasant story but Miss Crawford life if the attractive girl will marry him. It is sincere in her portrayal, and possibly the is light rowdy fare, suitable only for adults moral lesson may offset the grimness for some looking for very frothy amusement. spectators.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No No No Six Motion Picture Reviews

THE LAWYER'S SECRET » » A splendid cast and capable direction add to Clive Brook, Charles Rogers, Richard its merit. Arlen, Fay Wray, Jean Arthur. Direction Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 by Louis Gasnier and Max Marcin. Excellent Amusing Paramount-Publix. A lawyer works out his problem as a NEVER THE TWAIN SHALL MEET » » human being with a duty to his fellow man, Leslie Howard, Conchita Montenegro. and as a lawyer with devotion to the ethics of his profession. The story is well told, well Direction by W. S. Vandyke. From the cast and is directed with commendable re- book by Peter B. Kyne. M.G.M. it gripping entertainment. It serve, making An American boy of culture and good carries also a significant suggestion to those breeding becomes infatuated with a half- who often fail to realize that heedlessness and thoughtlessness are dangerous paths to caste girl, and comes to realize that their trouble. different worlds prevent the reconciliation of

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 their love. This age-old problem is present- Yes Too tnature ed in a very gripping and human way, and o-s is sure to provide excellent adult entertainment. It is likely, however, that adolescents THE MALTESE FALCON » » would be too much affected by its sensual Bebe Daniels, Ricardo Cortez, Dudley appeal at the expense of the moral involved. Digger. From the novel by Dashiel Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Hammett. Director, Roy Del Ruth. No No Warner Bros. The trend of the new detective fiction is » » certainly toward greater sophistication of THE PUBLIC ENEMY characters and dialogue—stories of the half James Cagney. Direction by William A. and underworld. “The Maltese Falcon” is Willman. Warner Bros. of this type. The so called “hero” is a racket- The theme traces the lives of two men from eering detective under suspicion of murder; the “heroine” a woman of more than doubtful their boyhood, where certain vicious charac- morals. But the unusual plot is very skill- teristics are already apparent, to manhood fully handled, and the cast is excellent when with the advent of prohibition they throughout. It will appeal to those for whom become bootleggers, rich, licentious and the unfolding of plot is of more interest than brutal. The picture cannot be considered characters (for there is sympathy for whom entertainment since it deals with so distaste- it is essentially a man’s none.) We believe ful a phase of our social order. However it stories. picture—those who enjoy mystery is executed with skill and does not glorify Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 the thug. No, too sophisticated. No! Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No c+J> c-to MISBEHAVING LADIES » » SHIPMATES » » Lila Lee, Louise Fazenda, Lucien Little- Robert Montgomery, Ernest Torrence, field. Direction by William Beaudine. Dorothy Jordan. Direction by Harry Pol- First National. lard. M.G.M. After an absence of fourteen years an American-born princess returns to her mid- With commendable adherence to the tra- western home town. Her unostentatious ditions and customs of our Navy, a salty, sea-going yarn is around a arrival is unnoticed, but when she learns of woven happy the elaborate preparations which are being go-lucky gob, who falls in love with the Ad- made for her, she slips away and returns miral’s daughter. Episodes, comic, grim, adventurous in succession. in royal fashion. follow quick In addition to clever lines, a good cast, and ad- The title of the picture is a wilfull mis- representation and much of the publicity on mirable direction ,an ever present atmosphere of youth and romance adds much to every- it is misleading. Suffice it to say, the film shows no misbehaving ladies but sturdily one’s enjoyment of this refreshing and vigorous comedy. bears the brunt of its misnomer in giving us an ideal, uproariously funny comedy, excep- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 tionally free from cheapness and innuendo. Decidedly Yes Motion Picture Reviews Seven

SIX CYLINDER LOVE » » UP FOR MURDER » » Edward Everett Horton, Lorin Baker, Lew Ayres, Genevieve Tobin. Direction Una Merkel, Sidney Fox. Adapted from by Monta Bell. Universal. the play “The Minute Man” by W. A. The infatuation of a “cub” reporter for the McGuire. Direction by Thorton Free- society editor of the same paper involves him in the murder of the newspaper owner. This land. Fox. is a melodramatic portrayal of a tragic and A delightful and wholesome comedy takes unwholesome situation, unconvincing because as its theme the difficulties and embarrass- of lack of sequence, unsympathetic charac- ments which beset the newly wedded Ster- terizations, and a definite staginess of the actors themselves who are worthy of better lings, after they have embarked upon a scale opportunities. of somewhat riotous living quite beyond their Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 income. Excellent direction and good acting No No embellish the simple story with so many humorous touches, that the lesson of reason- UP POPS THE DEVIL » » able economy is taught without prosiness. A pleasant evening’s pastime. Norman Foster, Carole Lombard. Direc- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 tion by A. E. Sutherland. From the Yes Little interest play by Albert Hackett and Frances Paramount-Publix. cto Goodrich. A serious problem of readjustment between » » THE SKY RAIDERS a married couple is treated as light comedy. Lloyd Hughes, Marceline Day. Direc- The man who wishes to write, stays at home tion by Christie Cabanne. Columbia Pic- while the woman become the wage earner. Domestic irritations, constant interruptions tures Corp. from bibulous friends, and more serious mis- A government pilot with a weakness for understandings contribute to create the climax. liquor loses his plane his job, reforms and but The dialogue is sophisticated and “smart”, and re-establishes himself in favor r hen he w and the cast is good, but the picture is only thwarts the plans of a band of crooks. This mildly diverting. production is startlingly on the order of Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 serials with its hairbreath parachute drops No No and dashing rescues, and though it has not sufficient merit to rank as particularly good C+3 » » entertainment for adults, yet it probably will WHITE SHOULDERS appeal to the average youthful audience as Jack Holt, Mary Astor. Adapted from Its moral effect is “keen”. negligible and book by Rex Beach. Direction by Mel- right and w'rong are clearly defined. ville Brown. R.K.O. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 A somewhat fantastic marital problem Probably entertaining Exciting but story or social serio-comedy, which compells probably harmless attention because it is dressed in such an attractive garb. The theme has possibilties TARNISHED LADY » » which are not realized and a mental review of the whole classifies it as “poor stuff”. Tallulah Bankhead, Clive Brook. Origi- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 nal story by Donald Ogden Stewart. Di- No- No rection by George Cukor. Paramount- C'fJ Publix. WOMEN OF ALL NATIONS » » The fascinating personality and excellent Victor McLaglen, Edmund Lowe, Greta acting of Miss Bankhead brings vitality to a theme which is in reality tawdry and melo- Nisson. Direction by Raoul Walsh. Fox. dramatic. It is a character study of Nancy The slight story concerns the rivalry of Courtney, impecunious aristocrat who, loving two rough, coarse, and amatory marines over sorae one else, marries for money. Later she women in every port of their travels. We leaves her husband only to find after sundry first met Quirk and Flagg in the stirring disill usionments, that she loves him. One re- war film “What Price Glory”, but their grets that .such a trifling inconsequential further adventures without the background story should have had as much talent in cast of that terrific physical and emotional ex- and direction lavished upon it. perience now seem unimportant and trivial. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 The rowdy slapstick humor is suggestive of Probably not No interest the type of comedy which we fancy was once Eight Motion Picture Reviews labled “For Men Only”. However it skirts YOUNG DONOVAN'S KID » » obvious vulgarity and becomes a matter of Richard Dix, Jackie Cooper. From the taste. story “Big Brother” by Rex Beach. Direc- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Not recommended No tion by Fred Niblo. R.K.O. A gripping if somewhat sentimental story G'KS of a gangster’s reform because of his desire » » YOUNG AS YOU FEEL to give the best chances in life to a small Will Rogers, Fifi Dorsay. Story by boy left in his care. It is plausible and George Ade. Direction: Frank Borzage. leaves an impression cf sincerity, although the officers of the law and social workers suffer Fox. somewhat in the telling. Jackie Cooper is This picture is a disappointingly inade- very winning and we feel that the boy he quate vehicle for Will Rogers. It is seldom pictures will become a splendid citizen funny, never witty, and borders frequently through the efforts of his friends. on the risque. The few telling touches of Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 satire in the story of the dyspeptic old father Yes T oo mature who suddenly shocks his sons by becoming a gay man-about-town with an irrepressible CT-KS dancer friend, do not redeem the unfulfilled NOTE » expectations of wit droll and humor which Mother’s Millions retitled “The She w'e have learned to associate with the star. Wolf”. Reviewed in March bulletin. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 (The ways of title makers are past Not very interesting No understanding.)

SHORT SUBJECTS *

ANIMAL WORLD OF MAKE BELIEVE » » CASTAWAY » » Talking Picture Epics, Inc. Mickey Mouse Cartoon. Walter Disney, Dr. Raymond Ditmars, of New York, intro- Producer. duces a number of animals whose protective The amusing experiences of Mickey Mouse coloration is their means of self-preservation. with the native animals of a desert island. for all. Recommended Recommended for all.

CK-S OKS BURTON HOLMES TRAVELOGUES » » CHILDREN OF ALL LANDS SERIES » » For M.G.M., silent with accompanying Silent; one reel each; directed by Made- description by Mr. Burton Holmes. line Brandeis. R.K.O.-Pathe.

These Burton Holmes pictures are not only Delightful little sketches of children in highly educational and interesting, but have different lands, suggesting the different cus- achieved marked distinction because of their toms, habits, clothing of the countries. They true artistic value. Mr. Holmes is a splendid are particularly suitable for younger children lecturer, giving information and entertaining and entertain while instructing. descriptions which are delightful and which 1. A Wee Scotch Piper will appeal to all audiences. 2. The Little Indian Weaver I. Busy Barcelona 3. The Little Swiss Wood Carver The views of this ancient city which 4. The Little Dutch Tulip Girl is Spain's greatest seaport are very fascinating. Of-3

II. Glories of Nikko CLEAN UP ON THE CURB » » Exquisite scenes of Japan and Japanese customs with their beauty and charms. Roscoe Ates. Direction by Lloyd French.

III. Bit of Heaven R.K.O. A charming glimpse of Ireland with its A coarse theme, most of the action of which simple and its rugged beauties. consists of people falling off a roof into a 5 - -

Motion Picture Reviews Nine vegetable cart, causing the street cleaner tre- habits, dress and diet of each people, and mendous anxiety. Not recommended. many of the innumerable scenic beauties. 0-5 They are engrossing in interest and very entertaining for all audiences. COUNTY SEAT » » 1. A Bit of Life in Java “Chic Sale.” Direction by Mark Sand- 2. The Mongols of Central Asia rich. R.K.O. 3. Wanderers of the Arabian Desert A silly farce too obviously a vehicle for 4. The Malays of Sumatra “Chic” Sale. Trivial and boresome but 5. The Battaks of Sumatra otherwise harmless. 6. The Masai (of Central Africa) O-S 7. The Forest People of Central Africa (pygmies) DIAMOND EXPERTS » » 8. The Guild Cities of Belgium Grantland Rice Sportlight. R.K.O. 9. Houses of The Artie and The Tropics Pathe. 10. Boats and Fishermen of the Arties and Tropics The technique of catching, pitching and sliding in baseball as shown by the “Old 0-5 Masters” themselves. Recommended for all. MOTHER GOOSE MELODIES » » o-s Silly Symphony Cartoon. Walter Disney, FACING THE GALLOWS » » Producer. Direction by Chester Bennett. Chester King Cole is entertained by modernized Bennett Production. characters from Mother Goose. Recommended for all. This picture, one of a series of criminal stories depicting actual experiences from the 0-5 past of Nick Harris, famous detective, goes THE MYSTERY TROUPER » » to prove that truth is stranger than fiction. Robert Fraser, Buzz Barton, Blanche The theme—a “murder mystery” turning out Mahaffey. Direction by Stuart Paton. to be an accidental death—will appeal to lovers of detective-crime stories, and will Serial in 10 chapters. All Star. serve as gruesome but gripping entertainment A young man falls heir to a lost mine. of the same variety. He has one half of a map which will lo- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 cate it. His adventures in outwitting des- Yes, excepting No, too mature peradoes who also are searching for the mine impressionable types provide the action. It is a plausible story, simple and easy to follow' with excellent o- photography of lovely scenery, but the pro- *> » THE FIGHT TO LIVE duction is amateurish and so poorly con- Talking Picture Epics, Inc. structed that interest lags. Children, however, will love the action beautiful horse A thrilling picture of marine life and the and struggle of certain forms for existence, with w'hich shares the stellar honors. an accompany talk by Dr. Ditmars. Recom- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 mended for all. Little interest, probably Exciting of its type 0-5 but morally harmless HUMAN GEOGRAPHY SERIES » » 0-5 One reel each; silent; edited at Harvard WATER BUGS » » University'. Produced and distributed by Grantland Rice Sportlight. R.K.O. R.K.O. -Pathe. Pathe. The reels are excellently photographed, A diverting as well as instructive picture well arranged and are artistically presented. showing Johnny Weismuller as a profession- In each the geographical location of the al swimming instructor with some of his country is made clear, with the customs, young pupils. Recommended for all. Ten Motion Picture Reviews

INDEX JANUARY TO JUNE, 1931

FEATURE FILMS I Illicit ... _ _ March A Indiscreet _ June Adventures of Prince Ahmed . - June Inspiration _ _ . February Aloha ..... January Iron man _ - . May Always Goodbye - - - June It Pays To Advertize . . _ March It’s A Wise Child - - - April B Bachelor Apartment April J Bachelor Father - . February June Moon _ _ March Bad Sister - . April Bat Whispers, The - January K Beau Ideal ... - January Kick In . - _ May Behind Office Doors - _ February Kiki . . April Beyond Victory - - April Kismet - - - - March Black Camel, The _ June Kiss Me Again _ _ . - April Blue Angel, The _ January Body and Soul ... - April L Born to Love - _ May Ladies Man - . . May Lady of The Lake _ . . January C Lady Refuses, A _ _ . March Charlie Chan Carries On - - March Lash, The _ . - February Charley's Aunt ... . January Laugh and Get Rich _ . . May Cimarron .... . March Laughing Sinners . - . June City Lights ... - . March Lawyer Secret, The . . - - June City Streets - - May Little Caesar . - - February Clearing The Range - - May Lonely Wives - - . February College Lovers ... - January Connecticut Yankee, A . - March M Conquering Horde, The - March Maltese Falcon, The . - - June Cracked Nuts - . May Man To Man . - . February Criminal Code, The - . February Man Who Came Back, The . - - Januar y Man of The World . - - April D Many A Slip . - - February Daddy Long Legs - June Meet The Wife - - - May Dance Fools Dance - - February Men Call It Love _ . - - April Daybreak - - - May Men On Call - - - January Desert Vengeance . February Millie _ - - - March Devil To Pay, The - January Millionaire, The . . - April Dirigible - - May Misbehaving Ladies - - - June Dishonored - - - April Mr. Lemon of Orange _ - - March Divorce Among Friends - February Mother’s Cry _ - - February Doctors’ Wives - . April Mother’s Millions . - March Don’t Bet On Women . April My Past - - - May Doorway To Hell, The - January N _ February Shall - - June Dude Ranch, The . May Never The Twain Meet New Moon - - - January E No Limit - - - - February - April Easiest Way, The _ January Not Exactly Gentlemen East Lynne - - March O Ex-Flame - January - .... One Heavenly Night - - - January F Once A Sinner - - - February Other Men’s Women “ March Fair Warning - - - January Outward Bound - - - February Father’s Son ... April Fifty Million Frenchmen - May P Fighting Caravans - February Painted Desert. The - . - - February Fighting Thru ... - January Parlor. Bedroom and Bath . - March Finger Points, The - June Part Time Wife . - - January Finger Prints ... - March Prodigal. The (Reported as “The Southerner”) Finn and Hattie - - - - March March Follow The Leader - January Public Enemy, The - . - - June Free Love - - January Q _ - June Quick Millions “ " May G B February Gang Buster, The - - - January February Rango - Gentleman’s Fate Reaching For The Moon January Girls Demand Excitement February - - - January June Reducing - God’s Gift To Women Resurrection - - - February - February Going Wild Right To Love, The - January - June Good Bad Girl, The The February Meadow, The January Royal Bed, Great Royal Family of Broadway, The February Gun Smoke - - April S H Scandal Sheet _ . January Hell Bound - May Seas Beneath, The - - . March - - - - May Honor Among Lovers . - April Secret Six, The Hook, Line and Sinker - January Seed ... “ “ - May Motion Picture Reviews Eleven

She Wolf, The (Mother’s Millions) March County Seat ..... June Shipmates _ June Crashing Hollywood .... April Sin Ship - - May Sin Takes A Holiday January Ditmar, Dr. Raymond — Animal Series Single Sin, The May Animal World of Make Believe - - June Sit Tight _ _ The Fight To Live .... June April Six Cylinder Love _ . June Monkey Whoopee .... March Skippy ... - - April Ex Plumber ..... January Sky - _ Raiders, The June Facing The Gallows .... June Spy, The - - _ February Stepping Out - _ April Grantland Rice Sportlights Stolen Heaven . _ March Diamond Experts ... . June Strangers May Kiss - _ - Dixie Chase ..... March April Subway Express - _ Hunting Thrills .... May April Svengali - - April Monarchs of The Field ... January Rough and Tumble .... May T Sink or Swim - - ... May Tabu ... May Speed Limit ..... May Tailor Made Man, A _ _ March Tennis Topnotchers .... May Tarnished Lady _ June Tigers of The Deep .... March Texas Ranger, The - - May Under Cover ..... March Three Girls Lost - - April Water Bugs ..... June Trader Horn - - February High Steppers ..... January U Human Geography Series ... June The Battachs of Sumatra Unfaithful March Bit of Life In Java, A Up For Murder - - June Boats and Fishermen of The Arctic and The Pops The Devil - - - Up June Tropics V Forest People of Central Africa, The Guild Cities of Belgium, The Viennese Nights - April Houses of The Arctic and The Tropics Virtuous Husbands - - - - May Malays of Sumatra, The w Masai, The Mongols of Central Asia, The W Plan, The - March Wanderers of The Arabian Desert White Shoulders - . - June White Thunder - January Knights in Khaki January Widow From Chicago - April Land of Evangeline May Women of All Nations _ - June Laughing Gravy May Y Lone Starved Ranger May Young As You Feel - June Lure of Hollywood, The May Young Donovan’s Kid - - June Marriage Rows January Young Sinners - - - May Mickey Mouse Cartoons Birthday Party May Castaways June Pioneer Day March SHORT SUBJECTS Traffic Troubles May Aesop Fables Mystery Trouper, The June Campus Capers - - - May One Of The Smiths May Cowboy Blues .... May Pete and Repeat March Toy Town Tale ... March Serials King of Bugs .... - March Finger Prints March Audio Reviews, Pathe Heroes of The Flames May No. 1 March Mystery Trouper, The June No. 2 - March Spell of The Circus January No. 5 May Shooting of Dan, The Duck - - March No. 6 - May No. 8 - May Silly Symphony Cartoons Back Page, The .... May Birds of a Feather .... May Mother Goose Melodies ... June Burton Holmes Travelogues Playful Pan - ... March Busy Barcelona .... - June China’s Oldman River - January Three Hollywood Girls ... January Dublin and Nearby ... January Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure Series Glories of Nikko ... - June In Morrocco - January Call of Mohammed .... May Days of Solitude - May Little Bit of Heaven ... June .... - Hurrican Island ..... May Peeps at Pekin January Spain’s Maddest Fiesta January In The Shadow of The Dragon - April Mystic Isles ----- January Sultan’s Camp of Victory January - Tale of Alhambra - January Spirits of Shogun ... March Through The Yantze Gorges - January Thom The Unknown .... May Wells of Fortaleza .... March Children of All Land Series - June Wizard Land .... January The Little Tulip Girl Dutch Zider Zee ----- March The Little Indian Weaver Way of All Fish, The .... May The Little Swiss Wood Carver The Wee Scotch Piper What a Time ..... April Clean Up On The Curb June Windy Riley Goes Hollywood - - May

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

JULY 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

Telephone DRexel 2177

WEBBCRAFT PRINTERS, 1051 ARLINGTON AVE.. LOS ANGELES Motion Picture Reviews Three

MOTION • PICTURE • REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell

VOL. II. No. 7 JULY, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per Year

FEATURE FILMS * *ALEXANDER HAMILTON » » ^BRANDED » » George Arliss, Doris Kenyon. Direction Buck Jones. Direction by Ross Lederman. by John Adolfi. Warner Bros. Columbia. Against antagonisms, political jealousies, Cattle-rustling, a stage-coach robbery, good intrigues and personal embarassments, Alex- riding, a fight and a love-interest, in brief a ander Hamilton stands in his indomitable will Western melodrama. for that the better- which will work toward Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ment of his country, the passage of the As- Thrilling Exciting but sumption Bill. A most stupendous and power- otherwise harmless ful drama such as only Mr. Arliss can create, it so towers above the average picture that one is awed by its paramount effect. From THE CONFESSION OF A CO-ED » » the first when Washington gives his farew7 ell address to the soldiers, to the dignified ending, Sylvia Sidney, Phillips Holmes, Norman it is full of interesting well constructed detail, Foster. Direction by David Burton and beautiful in scenes, personalities and costumes, Dudley Murphy. Paramount-Publix. and valuable in moral and education quali- The movies interpret co-education in their ties. own way. Consequently the glaring unreality Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 of this picture is not obscured by the sincerity Highly recommended Too mature which the actors bring to it. The story concerns itself with a conglomeration of standards in a series of episodes in the life of a ANNABELLE'S » » AFFAIRS co-ed. Victor McLaglen, Jeannette MacDonald, Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Roland Young. Adapted from the stage No value No interest comedy “Good Gracious Annabelle” by C'tO Claire Kummer. Miss Kummer’s place in the screen version DRUMS OF JEOPARDY » » is even more ephemeral than it was on the Warner Oakland, June Collyer, Lloyd stage. The story is trivial and complicated Hughes. From the novel by H. McGrath. beyond belief. Even Mr. Roland Young’s talent for being amusing does not shine in Tiffany Production. his several drunken scenes nor make of the To avenge the shameful death of his picture anything but very flat meagre enter- daughter, the half-mad Dr. Karlin set himself tainment. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ^Approved for family audiences by the Cali- Undesirable No interest fornia Motion Picture Council. Four Motion Picture Reviews the horrible task of annihilating every male A FREE SOUL » » member of the princely Petroff family. The Norma Shearer, Lionel Barrymore, Leslie grewsome situations and diabolical murders Howard, Clark Gable. From a story by are melodramatic fare, fit only for the most avid followers of mystery thrillers. The cast Adela Rogers St. John. Direction by and the direction are both good. Clarence Brown. M.G.M. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Gripping, amazingly powerful, dramatical- Too harrowing No ly intense, yet definitely unpleasant, this study of the degeneration of a brilliant C-+-0 criminal lawyer through drink and of the EVERYTHING'S ROSIE » » effect of it upon the upbringing of his Robert Woolsey, Anita Louise, John Dar- daughter will be of interest only to mature row. Direction by Clyde Bruckman. audiences. The code of freedom by which R.K.O. both father and daughter live causes an unfortunate development of their weaknesses, A carnival fakir adopts a neglected little with disastrous results. Mr. Barrymore does waif, whom he tenderly raises to charming the outstanding work of the film. Miss womanhood, through all the tribulations of a Shearer is adequate while Mr. Howard’s precarious fortune-telling, helter skelter life. talents are not displayed to advantage in his This is typical Woolsey material, and for small part. those who enjoy his wise-cracking mono- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, logues, the picture will prove lightly divert- 8 to 12 ing. Too tragic Too mature Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 c+*s> Yes Little interest GOLD DUST GERTIE » » C'KS Winnie Lightner, Oleson and Johnson. FIVE AND TEN » » Direction by Lloyd Bacon. Warner Bros. Marion Davies, Leslie Howard. From a A much married young lady becomes the story by Fanny Hurst. Direction by designer for an old fashioned concern of Robert Leonard. M.G.M. bathing suit manufacturers. She modernizes The story centers around a New York both the head of the firm and the design of family whose father is the wealthy owner of the bathing suits with startling and amusing a “Five and Ten”. He becomes so absorbed success. The humor is rather forced and in amassing millions that he nearly causes the repetitious but perhaps will be acceptable to disruption of his family. This picture is ex- those who like the three comedian headliners. cast this excellent ceptionally well and from Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 material the director has made an absorbing, Yes Little interest fast moving and very real picture. Its emotional scenes are treated with great c-+s it rank high strength and delicacy, and will GOLDIE » » in entertainment value for audiences of ma- Spencer Tracy, Warren Hymer, ture understanding. Jean Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Harlow. Direction by Benjamin Stoloff. Perhaps—depending No Fox. on the individual This picture defies constructive criticism. G-+-0 From the point of view of taste or morals it is inexcusable. It is in no way amusing, and FORBIDDEN ADVENTURE » » is so grossly offensive that one feels grubby Mitzi Green, Edna Oliver, Louise May after seeing it. as Fazenda. Sometimes released “Newly Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Rich”. From the story “Let’s Play King” Viscious No! by Sinclair Lewis. Direction by Norman C+-9 Taurog. Paramount-Publix. HUSH MONEY » » Two aggressive mothers of juvenile stars, Direction upon the advice of their press agents go to Joan Bennett, Owen Moore. by London with their children to meet the boy Sidney Lanfield. Fox. King of a small European Kingdom. This The theme concerns an unfortunate young picture is thoroughly wholesome. Though girl who finds herself in the midst of a life simple fare for a sophisticated audience, it is that she resents and despises—among a gang recommended for all others. of crooks. After a prison sentence she is con- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 vinced that right living is the only road to Yes Excellent happiness which she attains and holds against Motion Picture Reviews Five menacing odds. Though the story is reminis- theme would appeal would probably demand cent of others of its type, it is especially well more wit and finesse in the telling than the directed and acted. Good discrimination is film offers. used where the moral effect is concerned. Con- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 trasted with the ugly and discontented lives No No of gangsters and criminals are those more desirable which are the result of cleanness and cW refinement of living. Its emotional appeal is LOVER COME BACK » » good and not overdone. Jack Mulhall. Direction by Erie C. Ken- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ton. Columbia. Yes Too mature A flashy, shallow story of weak characters whose unconventional lives are far from admirable. Because of a sudden infatuation, a » » *A HOLY TERROR man nearly loses the girl he really loves. His George O’Brien, Sally Eilers. Direction marriage and the girl’s illicit affair are con- by Irving Cummings. Fox. sidered negligible obstacles toward a happy reunion. Somehow the title suggests some- A melodramatic but pleasantly entertaining thing more pleasantly romantic but don’t be Western which follows the accepted formula mislead. for pictures of this type. It includes a stal- wart hero, a beautiful heroine, plotting vil- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 lains, bucking horses, well-chosen scenic back- Not recommended No grounds and a happy ending. c+s> Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 THE MAN IN POSSESSION » » Yes Yes Robert Montgomery, Charlotte Green- c*~o wood, Irene Purcell, Beryl Mercer. » » *1 TAKE THIS WOMAN Cast-off by a socially ambitious father be- Gary Cooper, Carole Lombard. Direction cause of a short term in debtor’s prison, Ray- by Slavko Vorkapich and Marion Gering. mond becomes a bailiffs assistant. He is placed “in possession” of the home owned by From the story “Lost Extasy” by Mary his brothers fiancee, likewise a debtor (un- Roberts Rinehart. Paramount-Publix. suspected by the world), but socially impec- This is an absorbing and simply told story cable. Needless to say, Raymond wins the of a spoiled society girl, who, carelessly fiancee. It is extremely clever, light farce, flirting with a handsome ranch hand, is delightfully absurd, and excellently produced. caught in her own trap. Married, she tries While deftly handled the moral situations in- for long heart breaking months to live his volving the charming heroine require more life of hardships and privations. The sin- sophisticated appreciation than we care to cerity of their love triumphs over her tempo- expect from our adolescents. to life. rary desertion her former The picture Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 is distinguished by splendid acting, directing No No and beautiful photography. It is rather serious in tone, but thoroughly wholesome cto entertainment. ^MONSTERS OF THE DEEP » » Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 (5 reels). Talking Picture Epics, Inc. Possibly too mature Harmless but of no interest A thrilling, educational film showing a fishing trip in Magdalena Bay, off the west coast of Mexico. Many varities of fish are caught, exciting catch being that of huge JUST A GIGOLO » » the most a manta or devil fish. William Haines. Adapted from the Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 stage play “Princess and Dancer” by A. Interesting Yes, possibly hard Engel and A. Greenwold. Direction by on the eyes Jack Conway. M.G.M. cto This comedy is perfectly in keeping with its name. It tells a shoddy story in a medi- PARTY HUSBAND » » ocre way. William Haines in the role of Dorothy Mackaill, James Rennie. Direc- philanderer meets with his usual success. In reviving the controversy of the double stan- tion by Clarence Badger. Vitaphone. dard the story is sophisticated in intent This is the story of a young, married though not in treatment. Those to whom the couple who are not going to be hampered Six Motion Picture Reviews

by old marriage customs—but alas in due melodramatic story of a gambler’s life, course they find their theories need readjust- vicious in its effect because of its dramatic ing. There are scenes of drinking and un- force and skillful execution. Our entire conventionality which are totally uninterest- sympathy is held by the law breaker who is ing except to lovers of the sensational. given a fascinating personality. It is top Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 notch entertainment, but ethically dangerous Inadvisable No interest as a fire brand, especially to adolescents. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Absolutely not No REBOUND » » C'KO Ina Claire, Robert Ames. From the play by Donald Ogden Stewart. Direction by *SWEEPSTAKES » » Edward Griffith. R. K. O. Pathe. James Gleason, Eddie Quillan, Marian Two young people, thwarted in their own Nixon. Direction by A1 Rogell. R.K.O. loves, marry each other on the rebound. The Pathe. husband has an affair with his former sweet- This pleasant, refreshing melodrama of heart but when his wife leaves him, he re- race track life should prove enjoyable for alizes that she is the finer of the two women all the family. Eddie Quillan plays delight- and wins her again. The picture Ina shows fully the role of a jockey who, in trying to Claire, always a delightful fascinating and frustrate the dishonest plans of his employer, personality, to decided advantage. The is temporarily involved in great difficulties. settings clothes are and exquisite. The dia- After many vicissitudes he rides a thrilling logue sparkles clever, subtle with humor. race to a happy conclusion. There is a loss of tempo due to the amount Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 of conversation and this, coupled with the Excellent Yes sophistication of the theme, excludes the picture as entertainment for those under sixteen. c^9 For mature audiences it is well above average. TOO YOUNG TO MARRY » » Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 O. P. Heggie, Emma Dunn, Loretta No No Young, Grant Withers. Direction by

c-to Mervyn Le Roy. First National. The title has no bearing on the subject » » THE SMILING LIEUTENANT matter, being a substitute for the original Maurice Chevalier, Claudette Colbert though probably less intriguing one of and Miriam Hopkins. Music by Oscar “Broken Dishes”. The theme concerns a dominating mother who has tried to intimi- Strauss. Direction by Ernst Lubitsh. date everyone in her family but is unsuccess- Paramount-Publix. ful in preventing her youngest daughter from For those who enjoy a frothy, titillating marrying the boy she loves. The final re- farce, we recommend this version of an old lease of the husband from his henpecked life operetta by Oscar Strauss. The engaging is a satisfactory ending. Chevalier, in the uniform of a dashing Vien- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 nese lieutenant proves equally irresistible to Yes Yes Franzi, the violinist, and to the Princess Anne (both roles are charmingly played). In the course of the struggle to win the hero’s affec- TRANSGRESSION » » tions, sparkling dialogue, gay innuendo and romantic melodies add their share to the Kay Francis, Paul Cavanagh. From the entertainment. The direction of Lubitsh is so story “The Next Corner” by Kate Jordan. distinguished that we wish for more of like Direction by Herbert Brenn. R. K. O. calibre. A beautiful young English wife is intrigued Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 with the attentions of a fascinating Spaniard, Too sophisticated No interest and narrowly escapes bringing disaster upon her own marital affairs. This is good melodrama, done with admirable restraint and SMART MONEY » » excellent reserve. The finished acting, smooth direction and charming setting combine to Edward Robinson, James Cagney, Evelyn make a well-knit and consistent drama which Knapp. Direction by Alfred E. Green. will make good adult entertainment. Warner Bros. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Entirely too convincing is this glamorous Too mature No Motion Picture Reviews Seven

WOMEN LOVE ONCE » » squad suggested this story by Oliver Gar- Paul Lukas, Eleanor Boardman. Direc- rett. In it a respectable man turns stool pigeon and is asked to “frame” an innocent tion by Edward Goodman. Paramount- woman. The theme offered opportunity for Publix. relentless, realistic drama which might have “Daddy’s gone a hunting” on the screen had some social value as portraying actual is a slightly uneven, only fairly convincing conditions. But the picture lapses into senti- picture, in spite of many scenes of great mental melodrama and is “just another emotional beauty. The story is of an artist movie” — unpleasant, unsavory, and really of mediocre talent whose wife believes in offensive. him, and sacrifices for him, only to have him Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 return to her after a year in Paris, demand- ing freedom to experiment in life and art No! Absolutely not! alike. The tragic death of their little girl brings them together again to continue what can only be a compromise with life. It is VIKING » » not a happy picture, and while not harmful, Already reviewed in the January issue it has no outstanding value for adolescents. under the title “White Thunder”. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Well worth seeing—recommended for the No No whole family.

THE VICE SQUAD » » Paul Lukas, Kay Francis. Direction by John Cromwell. Paramount. The recent exposures of the unjust and disreputable methods of the New York vice

SHORT SUBJECTS * *BLUE GRASS KINGS » » *HEART OF A NATION » » Grantland Rice Sportlight. R. K. O. Talking Picture Epics, Inc. Pathe. Interesting views of Washington, D. C., The raising and training of horses for the including many of the governmental build- famous Kentucky Derby with many scenes ings as seen from land and air. from the Witney farm and stables. Recommended for all. Recommended for all.

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

AUGUST 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 9+3 South Hoover Street

<*xS>

Telephone DRexel 2177

<8*$>

W E BBC R A FT PRINTERS. 18bt ARLINGTON AVE , LOS ANGELES Motion Picture Reviews Three

• MOTION • PICTURE REVIEWS

Published, monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell

VOL. II. No. 8 AUGUST, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per Year

FEATURE FILMS % ARIZONA » » ence out of love, marriage, and parenthood. Laura LaPlante, John Wayne. Directed The characterizations are splendid, and great credit must go to the director who has por- by George Seitz. Columbia Pictures Corp. trayed sentiment without falling into senti- Ever romantic army life forms the back- mentality. ground for this picture. Beautiful West Point, Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 glimpses of the Army-Navy game, with later Very mature No. Too mature action shifting to an Arizona army post are interesting but give the picture a slightly be- wildering effect. It is directed with the best of taste, with nothing in the least offensive. BIG BUSINESS GIRL » » The story presents Laura LaPlante (who Loretta Young. Direction by William A. gives a splendid performance) as a thorough- Seiter. Warner Bros. ly charming and “sweet” heroine, a girl who This is a casual, sketchy and improbable has deliberately lived in free love with a comedy which does not leave a good taste young man who later falls sincerely in love because it has not a truly wholesome back- with her sister. The heroine, married to ground and because it is often purposely sug- someone else in the meantime, compromises gestive. It concerns the experiences of a re- her former lover in an attempt to “save” hei cent college graduate who makes surprising sister. With complete explanations all around, advances in business through the picture ends happily. Apparently the a discrete display of ankles and knees. youthful indiscretions are cheerfully condon- A cheapened love- interest is not mitigated by the satisfactory ed. The confused ethics involved in an adjustment at the end of the picture. apparently innocent girl’s choosing to live in Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 free love would seem to make it entirely unsuitable for adolescents. No. Stresses the 'wrong No values Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No

CAUGHT » » BAD GIRL » » Richard Arlen, Louise Dresser, Frances Sally Eilers, James Dunn. From the Dee. Directed by Edward Sloman. Para- novel by Vina Delmar. Direction by mount Publix. Frank Borzage. Fox. Fairly interesting, semi-historical picture This is a very human, poignant story of a based on the later life of “Calamity Jane”, boy and girl who, though seemingly inarticu- saloon and dance hall proprietress, with cattle late and crude, yet because of fine instincts and stealing as a side line. Deserted in her youth unselfish love, make a rarely beautiful experi- and deprived of her child by an army officer Four Motion Picture Reviews husband, she lives a colorful and unconven- DAUGHTER OF THE DRAGON » » tional life west. she meets her out When Anna May Wong, Sessue Hayakawa. son in the person of the law, she retreats, From the story, “The Daughter of Fu with her secret, to the great open spaces. While the background is probably true to the Manchu”, by Sax Rohmer. Direction by life of those days, it is not an especially pleas- Lloyd Corrigan. ing story. It is almost totally lacking in At the death of her father, Fu Manchu, humor, and has nothing particularly to Ming Toy swears to finish his unfulfilled it for junior audiences. recommend mission, that of doing away with the remain- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ing member of the Petri family. She is Questionable No thwarted in this by a young Chinese detective from Scotland Yard. The picture is cW characteristic of the type in its gruesomeness and horror and will appeal CAUGHT PLASTERED » » to those who rate excitement and suspense high as elements Bert Wheeler, Robert Woolsey. Direction of entertainment. Seiter. Story by Douglas by William Adoiescerils, 12 fo 16 Children, 8 to 12 MacLean. R.K.O. Too exciting Not recommended Two ex-vaudeville artists drift into a small town and, to aid a little old lad)' in distress, CHILDREN OF DREAMS » » agree to run her drug store. Startling develop- ments ensue, and eventual success. The story Margaret Schilling, Paul Gregor". Di- is consistent and moves with such speed that rection by Alan Crosland. Warner Bros. it is an excellent vehicle for the stars. The A girl, who has an unusually good voice, direction is in good taste, the humor really is sent to Rome to study. She returns, a funny. It is fine “hot weather” entertainment, famous diva, to the scene of her youthful matter of taste of course, but good entirely a happiness, meets her lover who has remained of its kind. a fruit-picker and departs with him for a Adolescents, 12 fo 16 Children, 8 fo 12 gypsy life. Good Yes The picture is done in musical comedy style and portrays fruit-picking as one of life’s c+-s> most idyllic enterprises. Adolescents. 12 CHANCES » » to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Entertaining Innocuous Douglas Fairbanks, Rose Hobart. Jr., c-to Two brothers, devoted to each other, fall *7HE GIRL HABIT » » in love with the same girl. War intervenes, and one is killed. The other, who has super- Charles Ruggles. Direction by Edward ceded him in the girl’s affections, returns Cline. Paramount-Publix. severely wounded. Though the picture is well An absurd story of the difficulties encoun- done it is too reminiscent of other and better tered by a flirtatious man and his fiancee. war pictures to justify itself. FI is entanglement with a Russian shop girl Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 and her pugnacious husband, Charles Ruggles, No No is very amusing, but in attempting to carry to feature length a picture which is composed chiefly of gags and silly situations, the s-ennrist undertakes too hard a task. The DANGER ISLAND » > humor is slightly vulgar at times, though not Kenneth Harlan, Lucile Brown. Di- at all demoralizing, and its entertainment value is entirely a matter of personal taste. rection by Henry MacRae. Serial. Pre- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 viewed in full. Universal. Harmless No The plot concerns the rediscovery of a deposit of radium on an unknown and un- civilized island off the African Coast. It » » is a wholesome, thrilling story full of action THE GREAT LOVER and with a wealth of interesting detail, Adolph Menjou, Irene Dunn, Ernest worthy of the imagination and intelligence of Torrance. Directed by Arthur Robinson. children. For those who enjoy pictures in M.G.M. serial form, it can be recommended as excell- This is a sophisticated sparkling ent of its type. and

Adolescents, 1 2 to 16 Children, 8 fo !2 *Passed by the California Motion Picture A matter of taste Yes Council as suitable for family audiences. Motion Picture Reviews Five comedy, set against the background of cent discharge has killed him, upbraids the glamour and temperament popularly associ- congregation for its hypocrisy. A promoter ated with opera singers. It is full of humor recognizes the power in her speech and in- and pathos and is colored with charming duces her to become an evangelist. She fragments of musical interpolation. As the realizes what a fraud she is when the man “Great Lover” Menjou is at his best, and she loves does not recover his sight through Ernest Torrance as the confidential valet is her pseudo-healing. The acting and direction perfect. The part of the story dealing with are unusually good. Many of us will recog- the young singer who is willing, even anxious, nize a familiar note in tbe type of evange- to offer herself in exchange for a possible lism portrayed. career is so skilfully and delicately handled Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 that it cannot fail to please adult audiences. Doubtful—depends on No interest However it is very doubtful morality for the religious scruples those whose principles are still in the form- of the parent. ing. c'KS Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No MURDER BY THE CLOCK » » William Boyd, Lilyan Tashman, Regis Toomey. Directed by Edward Sloman, HONEYMOON LANE » » Ira Hards. Paramount-Publix. Eddie Dowling, Raymond Hatton, June Though it is excellently acted and cast, there Coilyer. Direction by William J. Craft. is nothing subtle or mysteriously elusive about Paramount-Publix. this picture. It is obvious from beginning to With a wealth cf light comedy material at end, just a succession of gruesome murders, hand in story and cast, “Honeymoon Lane” all suggested by a clever and beautiful is a disappointing production. It is the story woman without any doubt a monomaniac.

of r. gambler who is led to change his pro- The murder being solved for the audience fession through the influence of a pious old at the outset, there is left not even the thrill lady, but the direction is so mawkishly senti- of prolonged suspense. This picture misses mental that it all becomes a travesty. The fire. few amusing sequences are overbalanced by Adolsscsnh, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 vulgarity and the delightful characterization No No of Armond Kaliz, as the King who succumbs to the lure of cherry pie, is wasted in the trite banality of the whole. THE NIGHT ANGEL » » Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Nancy Carroll, Frederic March. Story No. Vulgar humor No and direction by Edmund Goulding. C'tO Paramount. A public prosecutor befriends the pretty THEIR MAD MOMENT » » young daughter of a disreputable old lady Dorothy Mackaill, Warner Baxter. Di- whom he has sent to jail. In protecting the rection by Hamilton MacFadden and girl for whom his interest has turned to love, Chandler Sprague. First National. he murders her attacker, and is saved at the trial only by her testimony. This is not a Again the poor young girl is urged to picture for young audiences, as its problems marry the rich old man to save the financial are mature and its atmosphere a bit cheap strain, but in true Cindrella style the young at times. It is only fair entertainment for lover, disguised as a peasant, proves the adults. richer of the two. It is not unfair to divulge

Adolescents, 1 the plot because it is perfectly apparent in 2 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 the first reel. The title is misleading, Too sensational Totally uninteresting and intriguingly suggests more than is re- c-*v9 alized in the picture. » Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 PUBLIC DEFENDER » Dull Little interest Richard Dix, Shirley Grey. Directed by

J. Walter Ruben. R.K.O. CShJ) Richard Dix as hero-lover in the lighter » » THE MIRACLE WOMAN variety of mystery thrillers. The story is Barbara Stanwyck. Adapted from the written, directed and played with great flair. A combination of exciting and play “Bless You Sister”. Direction by quite un- believable situations is handled with such a Frank Capra. Columbia. human touch that it is really most enjoyable. The daughter of an old pastor, whose re- The picture can be whole-heartedly recom- Six Motion Picture Reviews

mended for junior audiences. It is possibly quality of gratitude and renunciation. Though a little exciting for the younger children. the dirt and squalor of India are largely Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 omitted, the color and atmosphere of life in Yes Exciting the East are well maintained. The story gains in strength by a consistent ending.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 SALVATION NELL * » Passable Too mature Ralph Graves, Helen Chandler. Tiffany. 0-9 Melodramatic in theme like its name, this picture yet lacks the necessary punch to make THREE WHO LOVED » » it excel. Even the fine sincerity of the acting cannot make the whole the kind of enter- Betty Compson, Conrad Nagel, Robert tainment that is thoroughly satisfactory. The Ames. Directed by George Archainbaud. sordidness of the theme makes it unsuitable R.K.O. for children, and the spectacle of the down- social of the triangle type, well trodden woman clinging to her brute lover is A drama too much like the “He’s My Man” type of acted, and well told, but rather sombre in song to appeal to sophisticated audiences. general tone. The hero allows his innocent, if unprincipled, friend to go to prison for Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 his own theft of money. He confesses five No No years later and is ready to return the money. e-*-9 The impression conveyed is that he can atone for having sent an innocent man to prison by THE SECRET CALL » » making good the theft — and also that the Peggy Shannon, Richard Arlen, Wm. B. innocent man really deserved to go to jail Davidson. Direction by Stuart Walker. anyway, because he tried to steal the love Paramount. of his friend’s fiancee. Here are certainly debatable ethical points for children to This political melodrama manages to hold struggle with. the interest though there are long periods Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, when boredom seems imminent. The story is 8 to 12 that of a girl who swears revenge on a crook- No No ed politician who was indirectly responsible for her father’s suicide. When her chance 0-9 comes, she hesitates, and bv quite super- TRANSATLANTIC » » natural circumstances, the wicked man repents and retires from politics. Even an adequate Edmund Lowe, Lois Moran, John Holli- cast and good direction cannot overcome the day. Direction by William K. Howard. deadening fact that most of the play’s action Fox. takes place over the telephone. Transatlantic is an excellent tale of adven- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ture and mystery, exciting and entertaining. Too sensational Uninteresting In the novel and picturesque setting aboard 0-9 an ocean liner, one crook fails another and *SON OF INDIA » » solves the difficulties involving several innocent persons. Splendid photography adds Ramon Navarro, Madge Evans. Direction much to the dramatic atmosphere and thrill- by Jacques Snyder. M.G.M. First ing action, excellent cast and good direction National. combine to make an entertaining picture. In this romantic story of the life of a Hindu Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Prince and a white girl, we find the highest Very sophisticated Unsuitable Motion Picture Reviews Seven

SHORT SUBJECTS * THE CHINA PLATE » » DELIVERY BOY » » A Silly Symphony. Produced by Walter A Mickey Mouse Cartoon. Columbia Disney, Inc. Distributors: Columbia. Pictures. This is an entirely delightful animated Mickey Mouse stops by Minnie’s house cartoon, with charming musical accompani- while delivering a wagon load of musical ment, of the adventures which befall the instruments. A musical flirtation ensues. characters on a “Willow Tree” Chinese plate. Very amusing. A pleasure for the whole family. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 16 Children, to 12 to 8 Yes Yes Yes Delightful

C-K9

BUSY BEAVERS » » THE MOOSE HUNT » » A Silly Symphony Cartoon. Columbia Mickey Mouse Cartoon. Columbia.

Pictures. This is an amusing take off on big hunt- A parody on the busy building of beavers, ing. The wide open spaces and moose hunt- and full of delightfully surprising clever ing, with the same surprising and entertain- twists by the Mickey Mouse Crew. ing figures. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Yes Yes Yes Yes

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

SEPTEMBER 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

<$xS>

Telephone DRexel 2177

WEBBCRAFT PRINTERS, 1851 ARLINGTON AVE., LOS ANGELES Motion Picture Reviews Three

MOTION • PICTURE • REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. John Vruwink, General Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook, Subscription Chairman Mrs. Walter Van Dyke, Vice Chairman Mrs. George Ryall, Preview Chairman

Editors Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. George Ryall Mrs. H. Sutherland Campbell

VOL. II. No. 9 SEPTEMBER, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per Year

EDITORIAL "Waterloo Bridge"

A difficult subject is presented artistical- In recommending films for special attention, ly- so much depends on the tastes, interests and mood of the spectator that with each recom- "Street Scene" mendation some explanation is necessary. A faithful translation to the screen of a The following, which are separately re- well known play. viewed in this issue, will appeal to various "Huckleberry Finn", "Merely Mary Ann", audiences for various reasons and are worthy "Sporting Blood", of patronage. Are clean, wholesome entertaining films to "The Star Witness" which the family may go together. A socially constructive attempt to crusade against gangsters is presented in a most Note: “Danger Island” (A Serial) reviewed interesting and entertaining drama. in the August issue, was mistakenly reported as having been seen throughout. Later "Twenty-Four Hours" reviews report it as very thrilling for Deserves note because the idea is differ- children but still above the general level ent and the handling is sincere. of serial production. FEATURE FILMS *

» » AN AMERICAN TRAGEDY The story is written around the episodes in the life of a weak young man, who, run- Phillip Holmes, Sylvia Sidney. Direction ning away from his first minor problem, be- by Josef Von Sternberg. Paramount- comes increasingly incapable of meeting life. Publix. He seduces a factory worker, Roberta Alden. Dreiser condemns in his novel a social Later, to rid himself of his obligation, he back-ground and heritage which bewilders tips over the boat in which he and Roberta and warps its youth. A tremendous volume are rowing and swims to shore leaving her

ill adapted to a pruning which strips it of to drown. The crime discovered, he is all its original meditation and psychology, brought to trial, and around this trial, to it has become in Von Sternberg’s hands a Drieser’s fury, the film largely centers. Sylvia morbid melodrama, uneven, episodic, a Sidney does singularly fine piece of acting. courtroom scandal rather than a social prob- a

lem, provoking false excitement and sen- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 sationalism. No No Four Motion Picture Reviews

BIG GAMBLE » » “The Plutocrat” by Booth Tarkington. Fox. (Seen in Preview). Bill Boyd, Dorothy Sebastian, Warner The well known novel gives Mr. Rogers Oland, James Gleason and Zasu Pitts. opportunity to present an eccentric and amus- Directed by Fred Niblo. R.K.O. Pathe. ing character, and his presence “makes” the The pivot about which the whole plot of picture. this picture revolves, cheating an insurance Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 company, is an unusual though not an admir- ]Vholeso-me and Yes able theme. The treatment is melodramatic entertaining in a style reminiscent of the old ten-twenty- thirty serials. A good cast and a satisfactory c+s> ending alleviate the faults of the picture but do not make the whole worth while. THE COMMON LAV/ » »

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Constance Bennett, Joel McCrea. From Perhaps No the novel by Robert W. Chambers. Di- g+3 rection by Paul Stein. Pathe.

BOUGHT » » This picture will prove boresome to most audiences because it is trite and hackneyed Constance Bennett, Ben Lyon, Richard in theme and treatment. The compensations Bennett. Direction by Archie Mayo. in beautiful settings and costumes are not great enough to recommend the nict're Warner Bros. to anyone. It concerns a girl whose past Again the beautiful clothes model is false- threatens to ruin her future happiness, but ly lured by riches and then returns to the her moral lapse is forgiven by her lover, and straight and narrow path in the arms of the all ends happily. poor but honest lover. If you are attracted Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, by Miss Bennett’s way of wearing luxurious 8 to 12 No No gowns, if you yearn for lurid melodrama held within the censor’s limits, see “Bought” by c+s> all means, but leave impressionable and also critical members of the family at home. GUILTY HANDS » »

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Lionel Barrymore, Madge Evans, Kay No! No Francis, Polly Moran. Direction by c-to W. S. Van Dyke and Lionel Barrymore. THE BRAT » » M.G.M. Incensed, when he discovers the intention Sally O’Neil, Allan Rinehart, Frank of a dissolute client to marry his daughter, Albertson, J. Farrell MacDonald. From an eminent lawyer murders the scoundrel. the play by Maude Fulton. Direction by There follows a vivid and absorbing development of gripping situations, dramatic John Ford. Fox. pauses and competing desires. Honor is due Lionel A little waif, brought home from a night Barrymore for his splendid acting and skill- court by a famous author in order that he ful co-direction, as well as to the unusually may study her as “atmosphere” for his new good supporting cast. This type of story is novel, proves the salvation of the misunder- suitable only for persons of mature judgment. stood and unhappy younger brother. It is an Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 amusing and romantic comedy, with a mature Cinderella ending, beautifully photographed, Too No well cast and directed, and with an hilarious C-f-9 characterization of the butler by Farrell Mac- Donald. HIGH STAKES » »

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Lowell Sherman, Mae Murray, Edward Yes Too mature Martindel, Karen Morley. Direction by Lowell Sherman. R.K.O.

This drama, as trivial as it is unpleasant, BUSINESS AND PLEASURE » » concerns itself with that hackneyed theme of

Will Rogers, Jetta Goudal. Direction by an elderly widower who is inveigled into a David Butler. Adapted from the novel second marriage by a coy, baby-talking, Motion Picture Reviews Five young gold-digger. His ultimate rescue from LOST VALLEY » » her toils by his younger brother is of the of same banality as the rest of the film. Produced by Boy Scouts America. Presented by Donovan Miller. Distribut- Adolescents, !2 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No ed by Educational Pictures, Inc.

This is a picture of a group of Boy Scouts GSO on a hiking trip in the mountains. For those HUCKLEBERRY FINN » » interested in this movement, and as an ex- ample of the activities and life of the Scouts, Junior Durkin, Jackie Coogan. From this film will prove entertaining, but it is far amateurish to the story by Mark Twain. Direction by too be considered on its own merits as a dramatic production. Norman Taurog. Paramount-Publix. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, Huckleberry Finn, Tom Sawyer and a 8 to 12 interested negro slave decide to leave troublesome If Yes civilization behind and gypsy down the river c+~s> on a raft. The charm of a girl who has befriended them and whom they have saved THE MAGNIFICENT LIE » » from scheming gamblers changes Huck’s opinion of girls, and he decides to return From “Laurels And The Lady” by and be the man she wants him to be. Leonard Merrick. Ruth Chatterton, As a picture, “Huckleberry Finn’ main- Ralph Bellamy. Direction by Berthold tains the same fresh vivid charm of youth Viertel. Paramount-Publix. which characterized the story. The atmosphere and background of the times are re- A rather unconvincing and disappointing alistically reproduced. The characters are adaptation of Leonard Merrick’s “Laurels so real that one wonders whether the children And The Lady”, this picture totally lacks are acting or just being themselves; a tribute any of the whimsical and subtle charm which not only to the juvenile players but to the characterizes the author’s stories. The result director whose skill achieved this result. A is a somewhat incredible narrative with smooth development, a spirited tempo and a forced situations, which even Miss Chatterton cleanness of feeling are wholly gratifying. (who over-indulges in hoydenism) and a The picture is recommended for all. good cast do not make real. The story involves a shell-shocked American who is de- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ceived into thinking that a young cabaret Excellent Excellent girl is the French actress with whom he fell in love thirteen years previously. C-tvS It is sufficiently entertaining not to be boring. THE IMMORTAL VAGABOND » » Perhaps we anticipate too much.

Liane Haid, Gustave Frohlich. Directed Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 T oo mature to be of No by Gustave Ucicky. Talking Picture interest Epics.

A somewhat old-fashioned and distinctly C-'t-S foreign flavor pervades this German picture, MERELY MARY ANN » » which was filmed in the midst of the magnificent beauty of the Tyrolean mountains. Janet Gaynor, Charles Farrell, Beryl The stereotyped characters of melodramatic Mercer. Direction by Henry King. Fox. romance are all present; the lovely maiden and the poor schoolmaster, unable to marry Mary Ann, an orphan, is a modern Cinder- her until he wins fame and riches from the ella slaving in a London boarding house. operetta, which he has written; then the She adores the music and the person of a scheming father of the heroine, and the rich, struggling young composer (the Fairy but stolid farmer, whom he forces his Prince). With one stroke of the magic wand, daughter to wr ed during the absence of the Cinderella is suddenly possessed of wealth. hero. By a fortunate quirk of the plot, young This upsetting of tradition on Cinderella’s love eventually triumphs and everyone is re- part changes the Prince’s role completely. Her warded according to his merits. The cos- wealth causes a breach between them. It is not until tumes and foreign customs give an added Cinderella becomes a social success and the Prince a composer of the operetta charm for an American audience. “Mary Ann” that the magic wand makes its Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 final gesture and reunites them. Yes If interested If “Pollyanna” casts her shadow across the Six Motion Picture Reviews plot, the romantic charm of story, enchant- vulgar interpretations totally unnecessary to ment of English seaside, beauty of photo- the plot and its intrinsic humor, the picture graphy, to say nothing of some delicious cock- is light and wholesome entertainment, full of ney humor offset any suspicion of the sickly clean, laughter-provoking incidents. sweet. Beryl Mercer is outstanding in her Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 portrayal of the cockney landlady. Yes Too mature Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Desirable Too adult 0-9

C-f-3 THE RECKLESS HOUR » »

MONKEY BUSINESS » » Dorothy MacKaill, Conrad Nagel, H. B. Warner. Direction by John Francis The four Marx Brothers. Direction by Dillon. First National. Norman McLeod. Paramount-Publix. The story concerns the misadventures of a Here is more clowning and wise-cracking beautiful model. It is trite, dull, and medi- in the typical Marx Brothers style. It is a ocre in production in spite of valiant efforts riot of slap-stick nonsense. “fans” will The of the cast. rock with laughter and others may wonder why they laugh. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 By no means No Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Amusing Amusing but a 0-9 matter of taste THE RUN AROUND » » 0-9 Geoffrey Kerr, Mary Brian, Johnny » » PENROD AND SAM Hines. Direction by W. J. Craft. R.K.O.

First National. From the story by Booth The theme of outwitting a non-marrying man into marriage is here treated in execrable Tarkington. Direction by William Beau- taste. A rich young club man wants Evelyn, dine. Leon Janney, Matt Moore, Zasu a chorus girl, as his mistress, whereas she Pitts. and her chum plot to frame him into a trip to the altar. Though he discovers this plot, The “Penrod Stories” are offered in a new at the insistence of his friends he continues and refreshing form on the screen in a version the in order to have the triumph of which retains the humor and flavor of the game saying instead of in original product. Booth Tarkington, noted “No” “Yes” the marriage ceremony at St. Thomas’. insult to the for his amazingly exact observation of the The clergyman and to the wedding guests seems American family, has given to the screen to been overlooked both by the charac- the material for a thoroughly wholesome have ters in the play and by those in authority entertainment wherein the best ideals of over the making of the film. Color photo- American life are the background on which graphy is used throughout. are woven the fun and pathos of American boyhood. Good acting and good direction Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 combine to make this picture a gratifying No No achievement.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 0-9 Yes Depends on the » » child. The pathos SECRETS OF A SECRETARY is very tense and Claudette Colbert, George Metaxa, Her- emotional. bert Marshall. Direction by George Ab- 0-9 bott. Paramount-Publix. Another society melodrama bursting with POLITICS » » suspense and thrills. The ingredients, a well- groomed and perfumed gigolo, a modern Marie Dresslar, Polly Moran. Direction Venus, wealthy, supercilious, rising from a Chuck Reisner. M.G.M. by Parisian band-box, the inevitable British Miss Dresslar again leads one to laugh or title and a shallow superficial plot. The ill- crv as she will —and it is her charm and advised daughter of wealth marries hastily, cleverness which makes real entertainment loses her money and her husband, finds a out of a rather simple vehicle. Except for job as secretary, meets the British title, is a few interpolations, which tend to illicit implicated in a murder, and cleared. It is Motion Picture Reviews Seven well cast and directed but rather poor in is the connecting thread among the various synchronization. Mary Boland is outstand- incidents of this drama of the race tracks. ing in her characterization. The races are good exciting entertainment,

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 the story is well told, and the sordid atmos- Not recommended Unsuitable phere of the gambling element is not unduly emphasized. However, the particular merit C+3 of the picture is derived from the earlier SILENCE » » sequences wherein one sees, intimately, life on an old plantation, whimsical negro stable Clive Brook, Peggy Shannon, Julia boys, pickaninnies, frisky colts and beautiful Wray, Marjorie Rambeau. Direction by horses against a background of lovely Ken-

L. Gasnier and D. Burton. Paramount- tucky country. The whole picture is charac-

Publix. terized by exceptional direction and photography. The old story of an innocent man’s ac- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 cepting the death penalty to protect a loved Yes Yes, for the horses one, is so well presented by the excellent cast under good direction, that in spite of obvious melodramatic symbolism one is moved » » by the sense of suspense and dramatic power. THE STAR WITNESS Clive Brook does exceptionally good work. Walter Huston, Charles “Chic” Sale, Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children 8 to 12 No No Frances Starr, Grant Mitchell, Ralph Ince, Edward Nugent, Dickie Moore. cr+s Direction by William A. Wellman. THE SPIDER » » Warner Bros.

give Edmund Lowe, Howard Phillips, Lois We this picture extra space because we believe that it is particularly deserving Moran. Direction by W. C. Menzies. of our notice. It presents a very serious prob- Fox. lem that is of vital importance to everyone

Permeated with an atmosphere of mystify- in the United States, and presents it, not as

ing unreality, this thriller is vividly inter- propoganda, but as a well directed, well esting to the end. During the performance thought out and splendidly acted photoplay of an act fn a vaudeville theatre, a murder that stands high artistically as well as moral-

is committed, the victim of which proves to ly. It is definitely anti-gangster. In all be the uncle of the assistant to the magician. other pictures showing gangster activities,

The rest of the picture is devoted to the even though criminals have been justly pun- efforts of the wizard to unmask the guilty ished in the end, there has been a romantic

man, which he finally does by novel methods. allure attached to gangster life that could Many good comedy touches and excellent not help having a bad effect on impression- photography add their share to an entertain- able youths. In showing the dire effects of ing hour and a half. organized crime on an average American

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 family, this vivid story should rouse even the Yes Too exciting most complacent and unimaginative citizen to the menace of the increasing power of c+S gangland. There is nothing sentimental in SPORTING BLOOD » » its appeal to fearless honesty and the active kind of patriotism that fights to save Ameri- Clark Gable, Ernest Torrence, Madge ca from a destructive force. Evans, Lew Cody. Direction by Charles Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Brabin. M.G.M. Yes No. Too brutal in The biography of a Kentucky thorobred parts. Too mature o

Eight Motion Picture Reviews

THE TAMALE VENDOR » » A chestnut of the first water, the traveling

salesman’s story is revived again in “Travel- Tom Patricola. Direction by William ing Husbands”. Hotel bedrooms form the Goodrich. Educational. background once more for the vulgar antics This is slapstick of the most ordinary of husbands en route. To no purpose, we variety, with the old fashioned pie slinging follow an inexperienced young salesman transformed into tamale battle. a Tom Patri- through a series of disreputable parties and cola does some remarkable tap dancing. a shooting, then finally, into the arms of a Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 disillusioned daughter of the very rich. No

If they are immature No harm amount of fair acting, of which some is present, could redeem such vulgarity and sentimentality. THIS MODERN AGE » » Adolescenls, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Metro Goldwyn Mayer. Direction by No N

Nick Grindel. From a* story by Mildred (NO Cram. Joan Crawford, Pauline Freder-

ick, Neil Hamilton. TWENTY-FOUR HOURS » »

This is one of those cheap melodramas, Kay Francis, Clive Brook. Direction by dressed up in fine trappings, in which a good Marion Gering. From novel by Louis cast is badly directed through a morbid and Bromfield. Paramount. unconvincing story. It concerns a mother and her daughter in a situation in which the Sated with New York life as they find it, mother’s extremely unconventional life two social registrants turn to “common clay” threatens the happiness of the daughter. to alleviate their discontent. The wife is the first to discover that she has allowed a Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 precious thing to pass, and shows her hus- No Unsuitable and no interest band that life may still hold happiness for them. Executed with admirable restraint in C'f-D acting and direction, this problem drama will TOO MANY COOKS » » appeal to sophisticated and intelligent audi-

ences. It is interesting as a psychological Bert Wheeler, Dorothy Lee, Robert M. study of what people do in crises in their Wade. Directed by William Seiter. lives. The behaviour of the characters is R.K.O. logical, probable, and in keeping with mod-

Too many relatives almost spoil this broth. ern life and morals. A story of a young couple who try to build Adolescenls, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 the house of their dreams, but are so over- Questionable Too mature whelmed by interfering advisors, that their

romance is almost wrecked. Full of clean, (N-3 wholesome humor and homely truisms, it can WATERLOO BRIDGE » » be heartily recommended as a family picture, though it is not the type that young children Mae Clark, Kent Douglas, Direction by most enjoy. James Whale. Universal. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 “Waterloo Bridge” maintains a fine integri- Yes Harmless ty of skill and artistry throughout. Another

war story with a too familiar theme, it manages with good dialogue, smooth acting TRAVELING HUSBANDS » » and splendid direction, to become a stirring Evelyn Brent, Frank Albertson. Direc- drama. Genuine people, brave emotions are tion by Paul Sloane. R.K.O. characterized. A young American private of Motion Picture Reviews Nine excellent family falls in love with a street ture has a loosely woven slipshod theme in walker. Completely unaware of her trade, which there seems to be little continuity. he asks her to marry him. She courageously Though it remains within the bounds of good refuses. The play’s deep appeal centers in taste, beautiful settings and interesting the young girl’s anguish as she struggles clothes hardly make up for its rather stupid, against her naive and idealistic lover’s mis- unpleasant atmosphere and slow tempo. placed faith. Kent Douglas once more cre- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ates a role with imagination and distinction. No No

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 T oo sensational No WOMEN GO ON FOREVER » » cti THE WOMAN BETWEEN » » Clara Kimball Young, Marion Nixon. Local exhibitors advertized this film as Lily Damita, O. P. Heggic. From the “life in the raw”. It takes one into the sor- play “Madame Julie” by Irving K. did atmosphere of a cheap New York board- Davis. Direction by Victor Schertzinger. ing house where gangsters gather and mur- R.K.O. ders follow in inevitable sequence. A When a wealthy widower with two grown measure of enjoyment may be derived from children marries, in spite of their resentment, the character portayal of Miss Young as the a beautiful young woman, who unknowingly matron of the house, a woman of dubious proceeds to fall in love with the son, there morals combined with a certain humanity necessarily must follow a rather W'avering and kindness of heart. morality which makes for confusion even Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 though the ending is acceptable. This pic- No No Ten Motion Picture Reviews

SHORT SUBJECTS *

BATTLING SILVER KINGS » » A comedy which is a little shorter, sillier and stupider than usual. Grantland Rice Sportlight. Produced by Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Van Beuren Corp. Pathe. No No The thrill and skill of tarpon fishing artistically photographed. cW Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ONE QUIET NIGHT » » Yes Yes Dorothy Granger, Richard Malaby. Di- C+-3 rection by William Goodrich. Education- Pictures, Inc. POiSE » » al An inconsequential picture making a banal Grantland Rice Sportlight. Produced by and feeble effort to be amusing. This un- Van Beuren Corp. Pathe. original thriller is built on the accustomed haunted house formula of clutching hands The value and beauty of poise is illustrated and looming shadows. A family and its by interesting examples from archery, golf, servants remove to a haunted house as a track and field events and casting with rod cure-all for the father’s violent and unceas- and line. ing hiccoughs. The gentleman’s terrifying Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 experiences, due no doubt to his complete Yes Yes faith in ghosts, break up the habit.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Mildly entertaining Nightmarish FUN ON ICE » » c+*s> Aesop’s Fable. Produced by Van Beuren UP POPS THE DUKE » » Corp. Pathe. George Chandler, Pauline Wagner. Di- This cartoon comedy has better music than usual and will entertain the whole family. rection by William Goodrich. Edu- cational. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Yes Yes A slap stick comedy sketched around a Russian title, false whiskers, player pianos c-to and laughing gas. However, no custard pies. The plot, with a shameless lack of ingenuity, FALLEN EMPIRE » » centers in the character of a duke and two different men who try to impersonate him for Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure. Van their own ends. A vapid and rather vulgar Beuren Production. Pathe. attempt to be funny. This travelogue of Haiti presents with Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 great interest scenes of native life, customs Harmless No and occupations. It is the more regretable that the accompanying historical data is too C'tO colored and too narrow in its interpretation. WHAT A BOZO » » Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Yes Yes Charley Chase. Direction by James Parrott. M.G.M.

Charley as an orchestra leader in a night HONEYMOON TRIO » » club is attracted by a wealthy female client until a misadventure returns him to the little Walter Catlett, Dorothy Granger and A1 girl he used to love. It amuses.

St. John. Directed by William Goodrich. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Educational Pictures, Inc. Harmless Harmless I

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

OCTOBER 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

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Telephone DRexel 2177

WEBBCFiAM FRiNlEFs 1B51 ARLINGTON AVE LOS ANGELES Motion Picture Reviews T hree

MOTION • PICTURE • REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN < » Mrs. Vruwink Mrs. Gerard A. Murray John \ . Co-Chairmen Preview Chairman Mrs. Palmer Cook j

Editors

Mrs. J. Allen Davis Mrs. F. H. Partridge Mrs. Margaret Argo Mrs. Palmer Cook Mrs. John Vruwink Mrs. Walter Van Dyke Address all communications to The Women’s University Club, 943 South Hoover Street, Los Angeles, California.

VOL. II. No. 10 OCTOBER, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per Year

FEATURE FILMS * BAD COMPANY » » production notably worth while. It is to be Helen Twelvetrees, Ricardo Cortez. Di- deplored that there is nothing in the title rection by Tay Garnet. Charles Rogers to distinguish this picture from numerous sordid productions that have born similar production. R.K.O.-Pathe. names, and also that some of the advertising To call it just one more gangster picture emphasizes altogether the wrong point of would be an easy way to dismiss this very view. attempt, since it in its poor but masquerades Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 advertising as a lesson and an earnest effort Yes T oo mature. to point the danger of gang influences, we No interest. feel that it deserves more pointed condem- nation. The righteous indignation of one THE CISCO KID » » repentent gang leader, couched in noble Warner Baxter, Edmund Lowe, Conchita language, does not offset the tremendous Montenegro, Nora Lane. Directed by Irv- glamour attached to the egregious maniac ing Cummings. Fox. who is the leading character. As entertain- Those who sufficiently enjoyed “In Old ment it contains a few thrills, but it is vicious Arizona” may welcome the opportunity of a similar stuff nevertheless. experience at “The Cisco Kid”. Here are bandits again, who rob to succor the Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, to 12 8 unfortunate and live by bold and daring No No acts. Here is red blood mixed with doubt- c^s ful altruism, but the border line bandit of the 80’s and 90's is an historical type which fails THE BARGAIN » » to touch present life and morals. When not Lewis Stone, Doris Kenyon. Direction measured by our standard yard stick the film is pure romance and adventure. by Robert Milton. First National. The scenes with the children are genuinely refreshing, This picture is the working out of a prob- the Mexican background rich, colorful. Bax- lem, the conflict between an artist’s desire ter, naturally cast in a romantic mold, is a disturbing and captivating adventurer. for self-expression and his wish to be fair If he conducted matinee symphonies, subscrip- to his family. Good acting, splendid direc- tions would permit subsidies to retire. tion and clever lines, combined with the Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 atmosphere of a delightful home make this Entertaining Too stimulating Four Motion Picture Reviews

» » r DEVOTION that w e may consider it only as a subject Ann Harding, Leslie Howard. From the for laughter. In similar vein, the hero repents for true love’s sake and, marvel of marvels, story “A Little Flat in the Temple” by the fake mine proves to be valuable and Direction Robert Pamela Wynne. by everyone makes a fortune. William Haines Milton. R.K.O.-Pathe. is most pleasing, and the capable direction A notable cast plays to the best of its adds to the light entertainment. ability this rather trivial but diverting Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 comedy. Absurdly disguised as a middle- Doubtful No interest aged governess, Ann Harding lives in the C+3 household of a young and charming lawyer, GRAFT » » Leslie Howard, and while thus escaping from Regis Toomey, Dorothy Revier, Sue a domineering mother and two selfish sisters (see “Cinderella”) she charms the fairy Carol. Direction by Christy Cabanne. prince. That the performance is both enter- Universal Pictures Corp. taining and enjoyable is a great triumph for Here is more racketeering but no gangster the art of the actors. It is a delightful heroes. Precious Victorian sentiment sweetens family film. the plot; villains are righteously defeated Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 and virtue transcends. “Graft” is the story Yes—very entertaining Amusing in parts of a cub reporter who somehow blunders his way through to a scoop for his paper, re- c-to lieves a serious political situation and wins FRIENDS AND LOVERS » » the reform candidate’s daughter. The issues Adolphe Menjou, Lily Damita, Laurence of the plot are vague and undefined. Just another thriller, it establishes a tempo which Olivier, Erich von Stroheim. Direction stimulates suspense and excitement and has by Victor Schertzinger. R.K.O.-Pathe. in spite of a mediocre cast, one or two well This film is an interesting interpretation of acted character parts. the old situation of loyal friends contend- two Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ing for the love of the same woman. It is Not recommended No dramatically and artistically presented. The men play their roles excellently, and we must e-f-s thank the director for the unusual merit of THE GUARDSMAN » » leaving something to the imagination of the Lynn Fontanne, Alfred Lunt, Roland audience. Young, Zasu Pitts. From the play by Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Molnar. Direction by Sidney Probably uninteresting No interest Franz c^o Franklin. M.G.M. clever, amusing comedy of GAY DIPLOMAT » » This subtle, Viennese life is a treatise on flirtation, writ- Genevieve Tobin, Betty Compson, Ivan ten by a skilled playwright, and exemplified Lebedeff. Direction by Richard Boleslav- with consummate art by Lynn Fontanne and sky. R.K.O.-Pathe. Alfred Lunt. To test the faithfulness of his wife, an actor-husband masquerades as a ro- A young Russian Captain is secretly sent mantic, love-making guardsman. At the into the enemies’ country to capture an moment of his success, as he accuses her of elusive woman spy. Around his efforts has infidelity, she neatly turns the joke. It wfill been woven a brilliant and subtle story of prove very entertaining for sophisticated Court intrigue, always interesting though at adults. times somewhat confused. A flight into the unreality of high-powered diplomacy should Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 prove an exciting and stimulating experience Insidious No interest for the average adult audience. c-ks Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 HEAVEN ON EARTH » » Yes Too involved Lew Ayres. Directed by Russell Mack. Universal Pictures Corp. GET RICH QUICK WALLINGFORD » » The misleading title gives no idea of this simple and primitive people along William Haines, Ernest Torrence, Leila story of the Mississippi. A feud between the men Directed by Woods. Hyams. Sam who operate the river boats and the “poor M.G.M. white trash” along its bank, forms the basis A debonair swindler and his two pals for the conflict between the captain of the launch a fraudulent stock selling campaign. “Morning Glory” and his adopted son, who his The farcical intent of the story is so obvious learning of his adoption returns to own Motion Picture Reviews Five people, the despised “River rats”. Their ly staged and skillfully directed, it is im- reconciliation is finally brought about by a pregnated with the grim details of a morbid terrific storm. The mixture of pathos, violence and demoralizing situation. The question and heroism will probably stimulate the arises whether patriotism or ardent devotion imagination of older children while the to their captain prompted the self-sacrifice emphasis on the sordid and grotesque may of the twelve men. Certainly this and simi- prove too exciting for the younger ones. lar types of production constitute effective propaganda against warfare. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Possible Better not Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No

» » I LIKE YOUR NERVE cto Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Loretta Young, THE LAST FLIGHT » » Henry Kolier. Directed by William Mc- Richard Barthelmess, Johnny Mack Gann. (Preview). First National. Brown, Helen Chandler, Elliott Nugent. Douglas Fairbanks, as the rich young Jr. From the novel “Single Lady” by John man, who through a series of exciting ad- Monk Saunders. Direction by Wilhelm ventures, learns to make his own decisions, gives a clear and interesting performance. Dieterle. First National. The story moves along at high speed and Four aviators, released from a hospital at because of its humor and spontaneity can be the end of the war, find themselves incapable recommended without reservation as a pic- of going home to face blundering pity for ture the whole family will enjoy. their injuries and the inevitable anticlimax Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 of their return. They meet “Nikki” by acci- Yes Yes dent and adopt her immediately. The story is concerned thereafter with their adventures 0-9 in various parts of Europe, their attempts to » » LASCA OF THE RIO GRANDE escape from the “spiritual death” they have Leo Carrillo, John Mack Brown, Dorothy already encountered, till in the end, of the Burgess, Slim Summerville, Frank Cam- five companions, only Nikki and one other survive to face the future with perhaps a peau. Direction by Ed Laemmle. Uni- ray of hope. A tragic formula this, but its versal. method of telling spreads over the whole a This dramatic version of Frank Destrez’s veil of illusive humor. Delicious absurdities poem, “Lasca”, lends a charming and fasci- cover despair as they play a game of life nating role to Dorothy Burgess who appears that is always serious but never to be taken as a dance hall entertainer in a Texan seriously. Perfect direction, good taste and a frontier town. The vacillations of her un- flawless performance by Helen Chandler restrained Spanish nature are characteristic, characterize this picture. To the literal mind- and her devotion to a Texas Ranger, Johnny ed it will have little meaning. There is no Mack Brown, culminates in a tragic surprise thesis to be analyzed or pigeon-holed, but if during a sensational cattle stampede. It is the spirit of it gets you, it will hold you a colorful border romance, extremely enter- captive long after you have left the theater. taining, and presenting a strong though logi- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 cal climax. Leo Carrillo’s excellent portrayal Beyond their experience No interest of the rich Portugese cattleman is outstanding. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 MAD PARADE » » Yes No Evelyn Brent, Lilyan Tashman, Louise G+3 Fazenda, Irene Rich. Direction by THE LAST COMPANY » » William Beaudine. Liberty Pictures. or (Thirteen Men and a Girl). Conrad This melodramatic picture of the adven- Veidt, Karin Evans. Originally produced tures of a girls’ canteen unit with the A. E. in German. U.F.A. Talking Pictures F. seems no less than a travesty on the work Epics. of American women in France, and in essence The German story is of a Prussian captain gives a false and ridiculous idea of the part and twelve men who hold a mill against women really took in the war. The occasion- French opponents in order that their com- al thrilling moments do not sufficiently relieve rades may safely reach an objective. The love the tedium of the constant straining for hu- of the miller’s daughter for the captain is morous effects. only incidental. A vivid and gripping por- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 trayal of self-sacrifice and heroism, excellent- No No Six Motion Picture Reviews

MOTHER AND SON » » PERSONAL MAID » » Nancy Carroll, Gene Raymond, Pat Clara Kimball Young. Direction by J. O’Brien. Direction by Monta Bell. Para- P. McCarthy. Monogram Pictures Corp. mount-Publix. As the title suggests, the theme of this pic- bit of Irish feminity from the slums, ture is one of mother love, temporarily un- A longs to a lady. As appreciated by the recipient. The plot is Nora Ryan, become personal maid in a shallow’, dissolute family trite and somewhat sordid, dealing as it to her does with the life of a professional woman of wealth she manages keep own gambler. Although she gives up this pro- sturdiness of character and eventually to fession for her child, the mother returns to exert a fine influence on the son. In spite of a mediocre plot, largely depicting the it after the sudden loss of her fortune, in sophisticated trend of high living, an effort to “recoup” for her son. It is not modern the type of story which would generally ap- the picture is fair entertainment. It has the peal to adult audiences, but the direction and virtues of good characterization, good acting assure attention. Miss Young makes sequence and especially of unusually beauti- her reappearance on the screen after a long ful photography. Karl Friend, the photo- absence, and the story takes second place in grapher, filmed “The Last Laugh”. He is interest to her interpretation of the leading recognized by his craft as premier camera role. man of the Old World. The best shots are taken on the train. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Of doubtful ’value No Too sophisticated No C'tO C'tO MY SIN » » Tallulah Bankhead, Frederic March. Di- THE PHANTOM OF PARIS » »

rection by George Abbott. Paramount- John Gilbert, Leila Hyams, Lewis Stone,

Publix. Natalie Moorhead, Jean Hersholt. From

the story, “Cheri Bibi”, by Gaston Credulity is strained to the breaking point when a young woman, who at the outset Leroux. Direction by' John Robertson. is seen as a murderess in a dive in Panama, M.G.M. and the drunken lawyer who befriends her, attain final regeneration and high success in An interesting melodramatic treatment of life. With less able and subtle direction the escapades of a “disappearing artist”, who, the play might easily become cheap and by clever impersonation, utilizes his talents tawdry, but it is worth seeing for the exotic in the uncovering of a murder. There is a personality of Tallulah Bankhead, the pleas- love story involved around which the theme ing performance of Frederic March, clear- is constructed. By clever direction, and good cut dialogue and perfection of scenic effects. photography, a fantastic and highly improbable narrative has satisfactorily Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 been developed. This Parisian story is well cast, Too emotional No though John Gilbert is not deceptive in his character role of the Marquis. C'KS Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 NIGHT LIFE IN RENO » » No No Virginia Valli, Pat O’Malley, Dorothy C'KS Christie, and Carmelita Geraghty. Di- PLEASURE » » rected by Raymond Cannon. Art Class. Conway Tearle, Carmel Myers, Frances A vulgar production depicting social life Dade, Paul Page. Supreme Pictures Ltd. among the divorcees in Reno, Nevada, in which immorality and crime are interw'oven. This is an amateurish and uninteresting The story is inherently bad, dealing almost picture in which an unhappily married entirely with gambling house situations, ob- author finds the true meaning of love and scenely intimate repartee, and ultimately succeeds in getting rid of his unloving wife. murder. The picture is ethically and edu- Its shallowness and artificiality are reminis- cationally valueless. cent of the earliest movie days.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No No No Motion Picture Reviews Seven

RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE » » developed in too many recent films. Cliff Edwards puts over his lines with a humor George O’Brien, Marguerite Churchill, and style peculiarly his own. Noah Beery. Direction by Hamilton Mac- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Fadden. Fox. Probably entertaining Too boisterous

Zane Gray’s novel and the film have little C-K9 more in common than the title. A Western, SKYLINE » » very badly directed and handicapped by dull dialogue, with miscast and stilted actors, Thomas Meighan, Hardie Albright, does well to have one “quick trick” — its Maureen O’Sullivan. Direction by Sam photography. The out of door shots show throughout a fine panorama of beautiful Taylor. Fox. country. It is a romance of pioneering days If there be those to whom the element of in Arizona with a hero from Texas and a coincidence seems invoked beyond credibility, band of pillaging men, whom he thwarts. there will be many more to enjoy the vivid A picture of action which shows hard riding, story of a barge-waif’s ambition to become cattle stampeding and shooting. a builder of New York skyscrapers. Parent- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 al and filial devotion, young love, tense situ- Harmless No. Too compli- ations relieved with humor, breath-taking cated, scenes on lofty girders, good acting and di- Cf»9 rection, all together make a film of more SIDE SHOW » » than average interest. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Winnie Lightner, Charles Butterworth, Yes If interested Evelyn Knapp, Donald Cook. Direction by Roy Del Ruth. Warner Brothers. SMART WOMAN » » Two sisters fall in love with a worthless barker of a side show. Although the Mary Astor, Robert Ames, Edward Ever- younger, proving disloyal, runs away with ett Horton. Direction by Gregory La him, an ending is effected which is satisfactory to all. The story flounders around be- Cava. R.K.O. tween comedy and drama and gives scant This rather sophisticated comedy is clever- opportunity for the ability of so true a ly handled throughout. A young wife, re- comedienne as Lightner. It is Winnie weak turning from a duty trip to Europe, outwits in dialogue, plot and general conception, and the designing blonde who has ensnared her while it is passable morally, the inexcusable husband, using the method of too close ob- emphasis of one vulgar song cheapens the servation at a house party. Spontaneous dia- whole. logue and the inimitable humor of Edward Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Everett Horton add to the many good points /Taste of time No of the play.

c-*J> Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 SIDEWALKS OF NEW YORK » » Too mature No

Buster Keaton, Anita Page, Cliff Ed- c-to wards. Direction by Zion Myers and SOB SISTER » »

Jules White. M.G.M. James Dunn, Linda Watkins. Direction

This slap stick comedy with an under- by Alfred Santell. Fox. current of serious intent is well stocked with Sob Sister is a colorful and unusual ac- amusing episodes and original gags. Har- count of newspaper life, swift in action, man, a wealthy young New Yorker, falls in clever and sarcastic in repartee, consistent love with a girl in the slums. To give a with the characters involved. Jane wholesome outlet to the street gang to which and Garry, reporters on two rival papers, she and her brother belong, he builds a are constantly pitted against each other to obtain gymnasium for them. The struggle to win the first account of every crime. them over to a real interest in the project Even love is superseded by professional jealousy, creates a series of near tragedies and a score but when Jane’s life is at stake, the of comic situations. It is indicated through- deeper emotion proves triumphant. out the comed.v how gang spirit can be turn- Adolescents, ed to good account. This is in strange con- 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 trast with the hero worshipping of gangsters, Better not No Eight Motion Picture Reviews

THE SQUAW MAN » » into the routine of shooting and slugging which marks the picture. Quil- Warner Baxter, Lupe Velez, Eleanor gang Eddie lan’s humor lightens the effect, but there are Boardman, Charles Bickford, Roland questionable if not actually demoralizing situations which Young, Paul Cavanagh. Direction by make the play impossible to recommend. C. B. DeMille. M.G.M. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Skillfully directed and perfectly cast, this No No old melodrama so well known to everyone, has a fresh and poignant appeal. The settings are beautiful and the tragically moving portrayal of the love between Jim and his THE WHITE DEVIL » » squaw wife strikes a note of sincerity and Ivan Mosjoukine, Lil Dagover. (Ufa) idealism which should appeal to all ages.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Talking Picture Epics.

Good Possibly This is an adaptation of a story by Tol- 0-0 stoi in the heroic vein. It concerns Hadschi Murat who leads his people of the Caucasus STREET SCENE » » in their fight to preserve independence from Sylvia Sydney, Estelle Taylor, William Russia. There is a certain air of unreality. It remains a story to the end, and the tempo Collier, Jr., Beulah Bordi, Matt Mc- is retarded. However to offset these faults Hugh. Direction by King Vidor. Adapt- there are many excellencies which we do not often find in American productions. ed from the stage play by Elmer Rice. There is restraint in acting, perfection of United Artists. detail in costuming, fine singing, unusually beautiful photography—a brooding loveli- This is a sincere and successful effort to ness over it all. transpose a stage play to the screen. It concerns the dramatic and moving events of Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 one day in a New York tenement, told as the Rather mature No characters meet and pass on the door step. c*-0 The tragedy of a wife, starved for affection and kindness, contrasts with the background WICKED » » of gossip and humor, and the normal every day life of a crowded tenement. It is stark Elissa Landi, Irene Rich, Victor Mc- realism, tragic and affecting. The acting of Laglen. Direction by Allen Dwan. Fox. Sylvia Sydney, Matt McHugh, and Beulah This social problem film remains indubit- Bordi is especially fine, the drama is interesting and the direction and photography ex- ably thought-provoking, in spite of exagger- ations moral issues. ceptional. The production is well worth and somewhat confused seeing. It is a harrowing, even agonizing, story of an expectant mother sent to prison by an Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 apparently unjust decision. The birth of her Questionable ; very No. Unsuitable child, her life in the prison (attractive be- mature and tragic yond the fondest hopes of the Wickersham commission), her early release through the THE TIP OFF » » efforts of an erstwhile sweetheart, and her subsequent frantic efforts to regain the child Eddie Quillan, Robert Armstrong, Gin- from its adoptive parents constitute the net- ger Rogers. Direction by A1 Rogell. work of the plot. Miss Landi’s acting makes the role vital and convincing. Paramount. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 From an unusual beginning the plot drifts Too mature No Motion Picture Reviews Nine SHORT SUBJECTS * BLUE RHYTHM » » GHOST TOWN » » Columbia Pictures Inc. (One reel). Talking Pictures Epics, This caricatures an orchestra, the animals Inc. substituting for human beings. This should Deserted gold mining towns of Nevada appeal to children and those who enjoy are shown accompanied by an interesting “blue” music. Good fun. and well expressed descriptive talk. The C+-9 photography is beautiful and effective. Inter- CALLING ON CAIRO » » esting for all audiences. (One reel). Talking Pictures Epics, » » Inc. HELL BELOW ZERO The film presents an instructive and inter- (3 reels). Talking Picture Epics, Inc. esting visit to the city of Cairo. Excellent In this unique picture we are taken to the photography and well selected subject-matter Mountains of the Moon in Equatorial Africa make the reel very entertaining for any audi- by Carveth Wells, explorer, whose explan- ence. ations are clever and clear. Strange vege- tation of prehistoric nature is shown grow- CAT'S NIGHTMARE » » ing there: natives and wild animals are photographed with unusual skill and under- Silly Symphony. Columbia. standing. The title is catch-penny and mis- cat’s adventures with A wild tale of the leading, perhaps, but this travelogue is ex- various animals he meets during a night ceptional. away from home. A Hallowe’en, spooky C+-9 atmosphere is so well done that it might frighten a sensitive child. IN A CLOCK SHOP » »

c-ks Columbia Pictures Inc. » » DUTCH TREAT A completely captivating bit of artistry, Talking Picture Epics, Inc. this picture presents clocks of many types and A good sketch of Holland, portraying the periods. They come to life, indulge in vari- quiet and peace of the quaint little country ous antics from prize-fighting to a dainty w'hich still clings to many of its centuries- minuet. old customs. THE LAND THAT TIME FORGOT » » » » EGYPTIAN MELODIES Talking Picture Epics, Inc. Silly Symphony. Produced by Walter An ancient Italian village is presented Disney Studio. Columbia Pictures. with its queer stone huts that have stood for An Egyptian frieze on the walls of an centuries, with relics of primitive customs, underground temple comes to life, and the and hand craft. Beautifully photographed mummies dance to delightful music. Un- and arranged, it possesses interest and charm usual and amusing for everyone. for all ages. C^9 FLYING HIGH » » LOVE IN A POND » » Fable. Aesop R.K.O.-Pathe. Aesop Fable. Pathe Exchange Inc. A diverting Aesop fable on the spider and A light and amusing animated cartoon in fly theme, with the most engaging popular which the musical accompaniment and rhymi- music and singing woven into the plot. The cal action are especially pleasing. Good synchronization is extraordinarly good and entertainment for all ages. the little performance ingenious and clever enough to be highly entertaining. Recom- c-fi) mended to all. MICKEY STEPS OUT » » c*-a Columbia Pictures Inc. FISHIN’ AROUND » » Moderately entertaining misadventures en- Mickey Mouse Cartoon. Columbia. sue when Mickey calls on Minnie, and his Mickey Mouse and a dog go fishing, with dog pursues her cat. A few vulgarities the fish as the victors in the battle. might be dispensed with. Ten Motion Picture Reviews

THE MYSTERY IN COMPARTMENT C » * houses and shops are taken with regard to artistic values. utensils and small Nick Harris series. Direction by Ches- Many objects from the excavations add to the gener- ter Bennett. Produced by Chester Ben- al interest.' nett. e-fJ After escaping an attempt at blackmail, Mr. Bruce is murdered in a train compart- QUEENIE OF HOLLYWOOD » » ment. A detective, by clever work, elimi- Virginia Brooks, Rita Flynn, Jean Reno. nates various suspects until at last he finds Direction by William Goodrich. Edu- the guilty man. This film is fairly well done and is comparable in intent and appeal cational Comedies, Inc. to the detective magazine short story. Adoles- Three girls, accompanied by the dog cents might enjoy it. It is too stimulating Queenie, are mistaken for royalty, whereupon for younger children. many complications ensue. Harmless, somewhat amusing. Fair entertainment for its type. NAVAJO WITCH » » cw (One reel). Talking Pictures Epics, Inc. SINGING WATERS * »

An unusually interesting and entertaining Description by F. B. Riley. Talking film showing the present home life from in- Picture Epics, Inc. fancy to old age of Navajo Indians on the Painted Desert. Even young children will A most charming illustrated presentation enjoy this delightful reel. of a trip up the Columbia river highway, in which each succeeding scene is a delight C-+-S and surprise. The description by Mr. Riley OLYMPIC TALENTS » » is beautifully appropriate to the subject. Grantland Rice Sportlight. Produced by Van Beuren Corporation. Pathe. A comparison of men and women cham- TOP THE OLD WORLD » » pions in track and field events, showing many Talking Picture Epics, Inc. promising aspirants to the Olympic Games. This bird’s eye view of Norway with its rugged, snowy mountains, fjords, and water- » » YOUNGER YEARS falls, ranks high in educational and artistic Grantland Rice Sportlight. Produced by value for all. The speaker has a very pro- Van Beuren Corporation. Pathe. nounced accent which occasionally makes the descriptions difficult to understand. Clever episodes in the athletic life of small boys. CNvO Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 TORCHY » » Yes Yes From The Torchy series of Sewall Ford. C'KS Ray Cooke, Dorothy Dix, Franklin Pang- » » PIGSKIN PROGRESS born, Harry Myers. Educational Pic- Grantland Rice Sportlight. Pathe. tures, Inc.

A Grantland Rice rather badly recorded, “Torchy” is the American business man giving a short history of football from old viewed as a striving youngster, who out- soccer days through the Princeton Rutgers wits all competitors and marries the boss’ game of 1869 (where present day students daughter. Played in rapid tempo, the crude re-enact the game) then through the 90’s, efforts of a very likeable young aspirant to and on up to present times. Rice illustrates power are diverting and lightly amusing. his talk throughout, and slow motion, oc- Recommended for the family. casionally introduced, adds considerably to the interest of the film. Of mild general G'f-S interest to a football minded public but TROPIC LURE » » largely recommended for small boys playing football. Talking Picture Epics, Inc.

C'KS Sketches of Guatemala, Jamaica and become confused, as they POMPEII » » Havana somewhat are contrasted with our modern cities. Ex- Talking Picture Epics, Inc. planations are inadequate, and while there Ever-fascinating Pompeii is shown with its are some fine views the film is disappoint- overshadowing volcano. The views of the ing. Motion Picture Reviews Eleven

UTMOST ISLE » » “great decision” to have America enter the Vagabond Adventure. Pathe. war, until his death, showing the high light

Remote and lovely Ceylon is richly photo- of events without attempting to interpret the to its graphed from its water fronts moun- policies he followed. It is a very graphic tains, exhibiting native customs and super- historical record of particular interest to sitions, recording music and dancing. The adult audiences. The pictures of course con- dancing is curiously unrythmical to our western taste. Recommended for the family. trast technically with more modern photo-

graphy, but the subject matter is valuable. WOODROW WILSON'S GREAT DECISION Children under 10 might find the picture One of a series: Floyd Gibbons “Su- tiresome. preme Thrills”. Pathe Exchange, Inc. A brief review of President Wilson’s ad- ministration from the time he made the

SERIALS *

BATTLING WITH BUFFALO BILL » » tures is the African jungle. A man accused Tom Tyler, Lucille Brown, William of murder escapes, and is hunted through amazing perils on land and water, surround- Desmond. Direction by Ray Taylor. ed by every wild animal known, and every from Great West That Adapted “The type of savage. It is an unlovely presen- Was” by William Cody. Universal tation of exciting experiences unrelated to Serial. 12 episodes. (Reported by the probability. Its enjoyment must be entirely a matter of taste. Though passable of its California Motion Picture Council.) type such a presentation is not the best Based on episodes in the life of William children’s entertainment in spite of the evi- Cody, best known as “Buffalo Bill”, beloved dent appreciation of certain youthful movie hero of romantic adventure, this story con- habitues. cerns chiefly the attempt of a greedy town Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 marshall to prevent the arrival of a wagon Hardly Not recommended train carrying a stamp mill into a gold rush C'KS community. The Indians are incited to warfare and Buffalo Bill brings order and har- THE VANISHING LEGION » » mony again. The serial is reported as one Harry Carey, Edwina Booth, Frankie of the best to date. There is variety of inci- Darrow. “Sex”. Direction by Reaves dent, clarity and plausibility to the story, Eason. All Star serial. 12 episodes. (Re- and real beauty and interest in the scenes of the life of the settlers and Indians. The ported by the California Motion Picture action is stirring, a characteristic of this type Council.) of picture, but it is generally not harrowing The story, confusing in detail and action, and the cast is well chosen. It should prove portrays the activities of a band of riders very entertaining for older children and is who prevent unjust exploitation of an oil approved as suitable for Junior Matinees. field, while the original owner’s name is being cleared of a charge of murder. The film is magnificently photographed and open- KING OF THE WILD » » ing chapters are interesting both scenically, Serial. Walter Miller, Tom Sanchi, and in well directed action. Unfortunately, Dorothy Christy. Direction by Nat it then degenerates into a jumble of repeated scenes, viscious ethics, and cruelty Levine. 12 chapters complete. which cannot interest adults and is demoralizing Suggested apparently by the vogue for for children. It is too exciting and Trader Horn”, terrify- the setting of these adven- ing for Junior Matinees.

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

NOVEMBER 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

Telephone DRexel 2177

<$*»

WB8BL RAFT hR'NTERS, 1 «5 1 ARLINGTON AVE., LOS ANGELES 1

Motion Picture Reviews T hree

MOTION • PICTURE • REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

Mrs. Palmer Cook Mrs. Gerard A. Murray Chairman Preview Chairman

Editors

Mrs. J. Allen Davis Mrs. Arthur Jones Mrs. Walter Van Dyke Mrs. Palmer Cook Mrs. F. H. Partridge

Address all communications to The Women’s University Club, 943 South Hoover Street, Los Angeles, California.

VOL. II. No. 1 NOVEMBER, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per Year

FEATURE FILMS *

AMBASSADOR BILL » » ARE THESE OUR CHILDREN? » » Will Rogers, Marguerite Churchill, Greta Eric Lindon, Arline Judge, Beryl Mercer. Nissen, Tad Alexander, Ray Milland, Direction by Wesley Ruggles. R.K.O. Seyfertitz, Arnold Korff, Gustav von The story of a high school boy who allows Ferdinand Munier, Edwin Maxwell, his disappointment over losing the oratorical Ernest Wood, Tom Ricketts. Fox. contest so to embitter him that he turns to vicious companionship and finally wrecks his Will Rogers as Ambassador to a small life. The picture is a sordid story of crime, principality of the Graustark order (suggest- too harrowing to be entertaining and not ing Roumania and its royal family) proceeds sufficiently balanced morally to be con- in the uncouth western which his other way structive. There may be spectators who will films have made familiar, to hob nob with think it a strong object lesson warning royalty while straightening domestic out and parents against the modern dangers which political tangles. He teaches the serious boy surround and tempt boys and girls. But it king to play baseball and other games like a is our opinion that the “hero” is a patha- regular American lad, and in so doing has logical case. No hint of the deep underly- an opportunity of displaying his marvelous ing influences responsible for his complete skill with a lariat There is plenty of humor moral breakdown is given, and the absolute though not the subtle and hilarious fun we change in his character is too radical to seem have learned to expect. Nevertheless it is believable or possible. His experiences are good wholesome entertainment for everybody, therefore to be classed among the inevitable appealing especially to adolescents and chil- “cases” which come eventually into the hands dren. While it is not in any sense great of the law. There is no suggestion for parents drama, there is plenty of action including a dealing with normal children, and no hope revolution with plots and counter plots. The that character building in the home will help excellent cast does good work but is limited a child exposed to disappointment and temp- in opportunity. Direction is eminently satis- tation. Thus the picture means little to the factory. You will be sorry if you miss it. average adult. Young people of the type Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 who enjoy sensational and morbid fare will Yes Yes feel that the final penalty in this case was Four Motion Picture Reviews exceptional and reject any application of a CUBAN LOVE SONG » » “lesson”. Mechanically the production is ex- Lawrence Tibbitt, Lupe Velez, Ernest cellent but its basic artificiality takes from Torrence, Karen Morley. Direction W. interest, the story certainly is not the and S. Van Dyke. M.G.M. entertaining. “Marine” Tibbitt’s excellent vocal qualities Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 bring a beautiful Cuban lady vendor of pea- Not advised! No nuts into his arms. But alas, not to stay!

G+S) He is called to war. After nine years, the strains of the “Peanut Vendor Song” THE BELOVED BACHELOR * » romantic lead him once more to Cuba only to find the Lukas, Paul Dorothy Jordan. Adapted grave of his sweetheart and the nine year from the play, by Edward Peple. Di- old son she has left him. This romantic tale rection by Lloyd Corrigan. Paramount- of love and adventure is splendidly acted. Tibbitt sings well while Lupez Velez’s fire Publix. and pathos make the romantic scenes under- A theme which is not especially original standable. But, all considered it is a little is treated in a fresh and sprightly manner too vivid and robust for the best interests of our children. and becomes pleasant entertainment. Paul, Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 a charming bachelor artist, adopts the small No No daughter of his model, who has been killed, and in order to circumvent a city regulation 0-0 claims her as his own offspring. He thereby COUGAR, OR CALIFORNIA MOUNTAIN loses his fiancee, who never learns the truth LION » » until twelve years later, when the foster child Jay C. Bruce, State hunter; Ranger and has acquired sufficient age and graee to offer pack of trained hunting dogs. Produced real competition. The interpolation of drink- by Sidney A. Stone. Silent film with ac- ing seems unnecessary, as Charlie Ruggles, companying descriptive talk. who plays one of the artist’s friends, can be This picture deserves special recommend- funny without stimulants. As a whole, the ation for its interest and instructive value. play is in good taste. There are charming It tells the story of the state fight against the scenic effects, the direction is smooth, the deadly mountain lion, showing incidental story is plausible. It is recommended as a scenes of other wild animal life with the natural beauties of California as background. family picture. It will appeal to all audiences. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Good Very little interest Excellent Excellent but unobjectionable

DREYFUS CASE » »

CONSOLATION MARRIAGE » » Cedric Hardwicke, Beatrix Thomson, Sam Livesay. Directed by F. W. Irene Dunne, Pat O’Brien, John Halli- Kramer. Columbia. day, Mat Moore, Lester Vail, Myrna Loy. Direction by Paul Sloane. R.K.O. Any happening that created a world wide sensation as did the Dreyfus case carries This is a social comedy with a pleasing special interest for those who remember the cast and unusually good dialogue. With the bitter discussion that echoed through our own exception a superfluous drinking of scene near country. The picture purports to be the true the beginning, the tone is wholesome. The story of Captain Dreyfus and his family. story moves smoothly and logically to its con- Both the historical and biographical material clusion. As the title suggests, a jilted man will appeal to a certain type of audience. The and a jilted girl console each other in a dramatization though vital and artistic is marriage for companionship. The working somewhat ponderous, and the play is heavy out of this arrangement makes an interesting and slow because of the necessary intricacies plot. of the plot. However the sympathy roused Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 in reality by the unjust conviction of Captain Possible No interest Dreyfus is reawakened in the pictured por- Motion Picture Reviews Five

trayal of his trial, and the whole production vulgarity. The director apparently seized gives an impression of reality which is aug- every opportunity to wallow in suggestive- mented by the excellent acting of the English ness. cast. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No Good, though mature No interest C'KO FREIGHTERS OF DESTINY » » FOLEY HERSELF » » FANNY Tom Keene, Barbara Kent. Direction Story by Juliet Wilbur Tompkins. Edna by Fred Allen. R.K.O.-Pathe. May Oliver, Hobart Bosworth, Florence This is a play which one recommends pri- Roberts, Rochelle Hudson and Helen marily for juniors, subsequently for adults Chandler. Direction by Melville Brown. who do not insist upon too realistic fare, a R.K.O. “Western” based upon the business of freight- ing by team into isolated towns with the at- The contrasts of vaudeville and high so- tendant dangers, struggles and romance. The background T ciety life form the amusing backgrounds are beautiful. Snow y Sierras against which this witty comedy evolves. Dis- glimmer in the distance, and the sound of of mayed by the shocked disapproval her rushing water is a joy to the ear. Of exact, two daughters when they see her a ceptional interest is the horsemanship, and her comedy queen yields to the insistence of the hero’s horse is worthy of mention as one millionaire father in law, and accompanies of the cast. the girls to his country estate where they are Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 to be educated under his watchful care. With wit and humor the discords are finally Entertaining Good changed to mutual respect by the sympathetic C+3 understanding of life which this wise, though unconventional woman brings to bear on her GIRLS ABOUT TOWN » » tangled family. Miss Oliver is excellent and Kay Francis, Lilyan Tashman, Allan is ably abetted by the director and cast. Dinehart, Joel McCrea, Eugene Pallette. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Direction Cukor. Paramount- Yes Slight interest by George Publix. C'tO Again the hackneyed story, whitewashing FIVE STAR FINAL » » the gold digging “party girls” who supposed- Edward G. Robinson. From the play ly keep their finer instincts amidst luxurious by Louis Weitzenkorn. Direction by surroundings, jewels, ermine wraps and negligees. This play is smartly done after Mervin LeRoy. First National. the manner of “The Greeks Had a Word The ruthlessness of yellow journalism, For It.” Some women will undoubtedly take pandering to sensationalism regardless of in- a certain feline satisfaction in seeing reversed dividual suffering, is made into stirring melo- the sentimental truism of the “gay 90’s” that drama by the excellent direction of Mr. Le- “it’s always the woman who pays.” However, Roy and a well chosen and very competent it would take rather an unknowing audience cast. It is the type of story which needed not to perceive that its implications are be- careful direction to hold conviction. Raw yond the pale morally and that it skirts im- newspaper tactics with their wide resulting propriety by a hairs breadth. ramifications are aptly portrayed. While it Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 is recommended for adults who are interested No No in such problems, it is cruel and cynical for youthful audiences, in spite of its truthful- C'tO ness. HEART BREAK » » Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Possible but No Charles Farrell, Hardie Albright, Madge probably THE HOMICIDE SQUAD » » ly conventional English family into which she has married forms the basis of the plot Leo Carrillo, Mary Brian, Noah Beery, which is carried over from the first to the Direction Carl Russell Gleason. by second generation when, Ruth Chatterton as Laemmle Jr. Universal. the mother reappears from obscurity to aid her daughter in a crisis. The picture pos- Amid the old ingredients of the gangster sesses a strong emotional appeal but falls story, we find an attempt to preach that the short of being a really fine dramatic achieve- ways of law and order are more desirable ment because of its slow pace and weak in the end, and there is also some effort made spots in the direction. Frankly sophisticated, to draw our sympathy towards the police. often sordid, and depicting, though with a However, in spite of the good cast, the pic- delicate touch, the life of a courtesan, it is ture has no particular merit. The under- strictly for adult entertainment. world with all its too familiar ramifications is seldom acceptable material for the enter- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 tainment of discriminating adults and it is Unsuitable No pernicious for youths. o-s Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 OVER THE HILL » » No No Mae Marsh, James Dunn, Sally Eilers, 0-5 James Kirkwood. Direction by Henry JUVENILE COURT » » King. Fox. Junior Durkin, Pat O’Brien. Direction Mae Marsh and a really satisfying cast and story by Higgin. Screen Howard play this simple, homely story of mother-love play and dialogue by Paul Gangelin. most naturally and poignantly. Universally Tech Art Studio. B. F. Ziedman. touching is the heart gripping problem of an old mother, who after raising her four chil- In reviewing this picture a specially invit- dren by heoric self sacrifice, is faced with ed group of authorities on social service work the choice of going “over the hill” to the for children collaborated with the regular poor house, or living as an unwanted burden previewers. They were unanimous in pro- in her children’s homes. The moral lesson nouncing the production a notable achieve- is pointed unmistakably, though occasionally ment, and the title a misnomer. The story at the expense of the entertainment. Hand- is of a boy who, through innocence and hero kerchiefs will be needed by the tender heart- worship gets in to trouble the police. with ed. His loyalty to the older man who has mis- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 lead him prevents the boy from giving in- Yes formation that would have exonerated him. Too emotional He is sentenced by the Juvenile Court to o-o three years in a reform school. Here the THE PAGAN LADY » » findings of the Wickersham Commission furnish the material for an expose of the fright- Evelyn Brent, Lucile Gleason, Charles ful methods used in some penal institutions; Bickford, Conrad Nagel, William Far- and the baffling opposition offered by political num. Direction by John Francis Dillon. appointees to all progress or improvement. Columbia. In spite of the element of propaganda the story is gripping. It is not entertainment in The ingredients of this melodrama are the sense of being amusing, but it is a beau- Havana, a saloon, a female bar-keeper, a Motion Picture Reviews Seven

rum runner, a fight, love in a boarding house, THE ROAD TO RENO » » a fanatical preacher and his handsome Charles Rogers, Peggy Shannon, Tom nephew, love on a desert island. The whole is mixed well with a good cast but is not Douglas, Lilyan Tashman. Directed by worth saving even for a rainy day. Richard Wallace. Paramount-Publix. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 A thoughtless searcher for thrills and No No novelty seeks her fourth divorce, thereby cto dragging her children through humilating and devastating experiences. It is a sad por- PALMY DAYS » » trayal of a phase of American life showing Eddie Cantor, Charlotte Greenwood. the failure of easy divorce to attain the de- of happiness. play is one of Directed by Eddie Sutherland. United sired end The the flashier variety, well acted and deftly di- Artists. rected, but possibly demoralizing in its effect Laughs and good music carry “Palmy on unanalytical youth. While a lesson is Days” to success. A true musical comedy definitely pointed at the end, it invests Reno with elaborate settings, it is one of the few and all it stands for with a far greater that leaves one enthused, amused, and eager glamour than it actually possesses, thus falsi- for more of the same kind. Eddie Cantor, fying with glittering trappings a sordid re- as the assistant to a fake fortune teller, liter- ality. ally falls into the position of efficiency expert Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 in a very modern bakery where Charlotte No No Greenwood holds the post of physical train- C'fJ ing instructor. The comedy is well cast and ideally directed with the speed and zip that THE ROAD TO SINGAPORE » » such a musical show needs. The songs are William Powell, Doris Kenyon, Louis good, the laughs continuous, and while it is strictly a stage show on the screen, it is ex- Colhern. Direction by Alfred Green. cellent entertainment for any type of audi- Warner Bros. ence. Disillusioned by her marriage to a doctor, Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 who is entirely immersed in operations, Excellent Good Phillipa turns to Hugh Dawltry, socially os- C'KO tracized in the far east for his reputation as a roue and home wrecker. After one dance, RICH MAN'S FOLLY » » a few horseback rides, and a clandestine George Bancroft, Robert Ames, Frances dinner, she decides to elope to Singapore with him, and discard her Dee. Trem Carr Production. Cooper- former conventional life, her reputation, and future security. The suc- ative Film Exchange. cessful illusion of hot weather in Singapore This film play, a modern Americanized does not attone for the shortcomings of the picture, and there is little version of “Domby and Son”, strikes a note to recommend it as entertainment. The story is lacking in of sincerity in plot, acting and direction. plausibility, and the action is slow. It is not Something of the Dickens manner of depicting a vehicle worthy of William Powell’s talent tragic lives and emotions is preserved and Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 helps to fashion a cinema story which has No No. many claims to distinction. In this version of e-to Dickens’ well known novel, wherein even the THE RULING VOICE » » names of the characters are changed, a father Walter Huston, Loretta Young, Doris is obsessed by the desire for his son to carry Kenyon, Dudley Diggs. Direction Row- on the family business of shipbuilding. In land V. Lee. First National. his fanatic resolution he drives his frail boy Here is an underworld picture which one to an untimely death and temporarily alien- might safely recommend for adults who en- ates his daughter. Though at moments the joy films based on crook themes. Walter Hus- ton dialogue is incongruous and the tempo lags, does a good piece of acting in his role of master racketeer. For youthful audiences, the acting, particularly that of the children, however, the picture is not recommended. is excellent and the production is both ar- The charm and finish of tistic and interesting. Huston’s acting invest the role with glamour and draw sym- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 pathy towards what should be an abhorent Good Tragic and , heavy practice. The very excellencies of the pro- Eight Motion Picture Reviews

duction make it all the more menacing in its and succeeds with the help of natural, spon- possible influence on the ethical standards of taneous dialogue to present an unusually real susceptible minds. and delightful picture of college life. The Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 picture is full of laughs, thrills and well done No No pathos. The football shots are exceptionally fine, and it is a picture that ought to please anyone interested in the game. It is especial- » * SECRET SERVICE ly recommended for children of all ages. Richard Dix, Shirley Grey. Adapted Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 from play by William Gillette. Direction Excellent Excellent

by J. Walter Ruben. R.K.O.-Pathe. c+s This romance of Civil War days should SUNDOWN TRAIL » » appeal to juniors and to grown people who Tom Keene, Marion Shilling. Direction love romance and stirring adventure. Reminis- Robert F. Hill. cent of the charming stories of Thomas Nel- by R.K.O.-Pathe.

son Page, the old South is evoked with its This is just another Western, of more ap- traditional hospitality and charm. Two peal to juniors than to adults, but leaving a brothers of the Union Army are sent on a pleasant impression of swift movement and desperate mission into Confederate territory; beautiful scenery. The story concerns a one falls in love with a beautiful Southern rancher’s daughter, educated in the East, who girl. With high romance, pathos, swift ac- inherits the ranch. Her foreman saves her tion, glory of conflict and yet none of the from endless disasters and fights the whole horror of World War films, it is very enter- countryside to win her. taining for family audiences. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Passable Exciting but Good Mature but entertaining unobjectionable c+J c-to SUSAN LENNOX » > THE SIN OF MADELON CLAUDET » » Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, Jean Her- From the play “Lullaby” by Edward sholt. Adapted from the novel by David Knoblock. Helen Hayes, Lewis Stone, Graham Phillips. Direction by Robert Neil Hamilton. Direction by Edgar Leonard. M.G.M. Eelwyn. M.G.M. From the beautiful and dramatically effect- Sacrifice and renunciation furnish the main ive, opening scene, to the very end, this pic- theme of this haunting tragedy of mother ture is a succession of triumphs for the love. Never revealing her identity through- directorial skill of Robert Leonard, and the long years of poverty and suffering, out infinitely elusive, but pervading charm of Madelon supports her son and enables him Greta Garbo. Because of the artistic values to become a famous physician. Probably the of the picture, an improbable and sordid sombre pathos of this story would prove too story is accepted and seems vital and rich strong for the average child, but its poig- with emotional depth. Without such artistic nancy and the skillful delicacy of character- realization, it would be but one more version ization will long be remembered by a dis- of the poor young girl, erring through force criminating adult audience. of circumstances, and struggling on through Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 adventure after adventure, in the hope of Possible, but very No- finding a permanent haven. Dramatic impli- tragic cations are startlingly enhanced by the mar- cW vellously photographed backgrounds. Adolescents, 12 THE SPIRIT OF NOTRE DAME » » to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No, unsuitable Too mature Lew Ayres, William Bakewell, Far- J. c+s> rell MacDonald. Direction by Russell TWO FISTED JUSTICE » » Mack. Universal. Tom Tyler, Barbara Weeks. Direction This is a splendid football picture empha- by G. A. Durlam. Cooperative Exchange. sizing the importance of team work and sportsmanship. It presents in particular the The action of this story is supposed to take story of the blocking half-back who does the place during the days of the Civil War when lion’s share of the work while the ball carrier a self appointed group of rough riders were receive all the applause. The cast is excellent stationed at a frontier town in Kentucky to Motion Picture Reviews Nine

marries establish law and order. While many so until upon one of his sprees he a a called “Westerns” lack the smoothness of di- deserving blonde who rushes him off to him. The rection, acting and supervision of other films, ranch in Arizona and rehabilitates they are often accepted, especially by juvenile plot has a slightly familiar ring, and the play audiences, because of the romantically heroic is only fairly interesting. The acting is satis- characters and vivid action. But this one factory but not outstanding. does not entertain. The story is inconsistent Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 and complicated, the action violent, and the Not recommended No ethics confused. It is recommended for no 0-9 one. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 WOMAN BREAKER » » No No Lew Ayres. Direction Russell Mack. Universal.

UNHOLY GARDEN » » This picture was reviewed in the October issue under the title “Heaven on Earth.” The Ronald Coleman, Estelle Taylor, Fay new title seems even less appropriate than United Artists. Wray. the old one. The action of this romantic melodrama 0-9 takes place in a mythical spot on the Arabian desert. Ronald Coleman in his usual debonair THE YELLOW TICKET » » manner makes robbery and violence seem the Elisa Landi, Lionel Barrymore. Direct- acts of a cultured English gentleman off on a holiday. The heroine in Paris gowns adds ion by Roaul Walsh. Fox. From the to the implausibility of the picture. Except play by Michael Morton. for Coleman fans, the whole production is a This screen play, taken from the stage suc- waste of time. cess of the same name, has a melodramatic Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 theme which provides the audience with fre- No No quent opportunities to weep, hiss or cheer. c+-9 In order to reach a dying father imprisoned in Russia, a young Jewish girl wears the WEST OF BROADWAY » » “Yellow Ticket,” badge of an old profession, which she however does not practice. Cap- John Gilbert, Lois Moran. Seen in Pre- able direction and excellent acting add merit view. M.G.M. to the picture which is good of its kind. A short life and a gay one is the choice of Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 a nerve shattered soldier home from overseas, Unsuitable No Ten Motion Picture Reviews SHORT SUBJECTS * BALINESE LOVE » » PATHE AUDIO REVIEW No. 4 » » Tom Terris Vagabond Adventures. Talk- Pathe. ing Picture Epics. A pointless but amusing review of inconsequential subjects, all of which entertain A native legend and appealing love story pleasantly. of a youth who saves his sweetheart from 0-9 being burned alive as a human sacrifice. » » The scenery beggars description, it is so love- SONG OF THE VOODOO ly. It is regretable that Tom Terris, the Tom Terriss Vagabond Adventure. announcer, is exceedingly bad. Recommended Pathe. for adults and Juniors but has too many A travelogue portraying Haiti in its natu- vivid horrors for sensitive children. ral beauty, and contrasting modern and C-f-9 primitive customs of the natives. It ha6 BARNYARD BROADCAST » » appeal for all audiences. Mickey Mouse Cartoon. 0-9 SPIDER AND THE FLY » » A broadcasting system set up in a barn by Mickey Mouse, is disorganized by a con- Silly Symphony. scientious objector—a cat. She raises her A fantasy of great charm and wit. Its voice against the performers, re-entering, style and art place it in a class by itself in every time she is put out, to the utter dis- the field of clever cartooning. The rhythm traction and disruption of all the animals. and mood of the music is entrancing and ab- Entertaining but with no special originality. surd. Two flies, caught by the scheming Recommended for the family. spider are rescued by hordes of fellow insects.

C-*-9 0-9 EX ROOSTER » » THAT'S MY MEAT » » Chic Sale, Aileen Carlyle. Direction Educational. Mark Sandrick. Radio Pictures. Seen in Two burglars start to rob a meat market and not finding enough cash in the box, put Preview. on a sale. The humor is far-fetched and a rooster that intended for All about was crude, and the facetious treatment of a crime a stew and became a prize winner instead. problem is questionable in our present days Amusing for family audiences. of stress. It is not recommended. e*-9 0-9 THE FAMILY SHOE » » TORCHY PASSES THE BUCK » »

Aesop Fable Cartoon. 2 reels. Educational Comedy. A Mother Goose cartoon, cleverly synchro- The over zealous and blundering Torchy nized with good music and ingenious comedy. continues his career as an office boy. On A melange of “The Old Woman Who Lived this occasion he helps the boss’ son out of a in the Shoe” and “Jack and the Bean Stalk,” deer shooting scrape and fastens the blame on wherein the old shoe becomes a jeweled slip- someone else. There are pranks and amusing per habitation. Amusing for the whole incidents. Recommended for the family. family. 0-9 TURN OF THE TIDE » » IDLE ROOMERS * » Floyd Gibbons Supreme Thrills. (One reel) Educational Comedies, Inc. Floyd Gibbons in person with animated acrobats are adjudged insane by their Two maps and a too animated voice which landlady. She sends for alienists in their who dramatizes his explanation of the battle endeavor to secure case facts also perform scenes at Chateau Thierry, shown on the film. antics. The situation which arises when the It smacks too strongly of the emotional foot- booking agent appears on the scene adds to ball announcers’ sensational methods to seem the fun. Innocuous and laughter-provoking. in the best taste, but it has educational and Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 historical value. Presentation poor for Yes Yes juniors or children.

MOTION PICTURE REVIEWS

THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

DECEMBER 1931 THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB

LOS ANCELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 943 South Hoover Street

Telephone DRexel 2177

WEBBCRA FT PRINTERS, 1691 ARLINGTON AVE.. LOS ANGELES Motion Picture Reviews Three

MOTION • PICTURE • REVIEWS

Published monthly by THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY CLUB LOS ANGELES BRANCH AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN « »

Mrs. John Vruwink ) Mrs. Gerard A. Murray C°~Chairmen Mrs. Palmer Cook, ) Preview Chairman

Editors

Mrs. J. Allen Davis Mrs. Arthur Jones Mrs. Walter Van Dyke Mrs. Palmer Cook Mrs. John Vruwink, Mrs. F. H. Partridge Address all communications to The Women’s University Club, 943 South Hoover Street, Los Angeles, California.

VOL. II. No. 12 DECEMBER, 1931 10c per Copy, $1.00 per Year

FEATURE FILMS *

There are three pictures which call for ANYBODY’S BLONDE » » special recommendation this month. “Arrow- Dorothy Revier. Direction by Henry smith” will appeal to discriminating adult Walthal. Columbia. Seen in preview. audiences because of the interesting subject The story is woven about a boxing and the excellence of its production. “Way championship. In order to win a bet of high Down Home” is delightful in its homely stakes a night club owner and racketeer kills philosophy and humor. “Delicious” with the champion just before the bout. The Janet Gaynor is different, entertaining and sister of the victim attempts to unravel the amusing. murder mystery. It is poor entertainment. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Not suitable Not suitable c-+s>

THE AGE FOR LOVE » » c-to

Billie Dove, Charles Starrett, Edward Everett Horton. Direction by Frank AROUND THE WORLD IN EIGHTY Lloyd. From the novel by Ernest Pas- MINUTES » » cal. United Artists. Douglas Fairbanks. Direction by Victor This is a feeble echo of portions of “Di- Fleming. United Artists. vorcee” and “Seed”. It seems to be an effort to prove something about a woman’s obli- Douglas Fairbanks’ acrobatic stunts add a gations to her home and her husband, but it touch of light entertainment to the education- shows only how an ill-mated pair make a al value of this picture. Characteristic scenes failure of matrimony, are divorced, and make on the Pacific Ocean at Honolulu, in Japan, a worse failure of divorce. Edward Everett Manilla, China, Indo-China, Siam and India Horton, entertainingly absurd as usual, are pictured with extraordinary beauty and brightens up a few spots in an otherwise dull charm. The photography is surpassingly good, picture. The relation of the title to the sub- the direction ingenious and different from the ject matter is not apparent. ordinary travelogue.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Unsuitable No interest Excellent Excellent Four Motion Picture Reviews

ARROWSMITH » » a final comeback because of the love and Ronald Colman, Helen Hayes. Adapted faith of a child. But the acting is superb. With simple and sincere direction, it grips, from the novel by Sinclair Lewis. Direc- and makes the figures on the screen real, be- tion by Ford. United Artists. John lievable, and lovable. The depressing and “Arrowsmith” has unusual interest Adapt- sordid background is not unduly emphasized, ed from Sinclair Lewis’ strong novel, it is a humor lightens the theme, and we think the powerful, serious drama picturing the con- picture is one which most people will be glad stant sacrifices and the bitter conflicts which to have seen. seem inevitable in the life of a physician Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 whose great forte is research. Ronald Colman Good Exciting and sad gives an excellent performance making Dr. Arrowsmith a very likable person to whom c^S one’s sympathy is given, but Helen Hayes is THE CHEAT » » outstanding in a difficult emotional role. It is a production which is well worth seeing. Tallulah Bankhead, Irving Pichel. Di- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 rection by George Abbott. Paramount- Very mature No. Too mature Publix. CfJ Elsa Carlyle, a weak, indiscreet wife, is portrayed by Miss Bankhead, while Irving BIG SHOT » » Pichel is cast as a sensuous villain. The story Eddie Quillan, Maureen O’Sullivan, moves rapidly if not too smoothly, and considering her indiscretions, Elsa comes off Belle Bennett, Roscoe Ates, Otis Harlan. rather well with only a brand on her chest, Direction by Murphy. R.K.O. Ralph burned on by the infuriated and frustrated Pathe. villain (whom she incidentally shoots but not This is a light, innocuous farce, verging fatally). The climaxing court scene is such upon slapstick, in which small town charac- overdrawn melodrama that it approaches ab- ters and surroundings are so overdrawn as surdity. Elsa’s husband urges her to regard to be absurd to many adults. It is the story the whole matter as a bad dream, but from of an ambitious young man who borrows the point of view' of the audience it may be money to invest and is on the brink of failure a horrible nightmare. when a most unexpected turn of events saves Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 the day. But it is harmless fun which will Impossible Impossible probably appeal to children. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 c*-9 A matter of taste Fair CONVICTED » » Aileen Pringle, Jameson Thomas.

“Convicted” is not recommended to your BLONDE CRAZY >' » attention. It is a slow and cumbersome de- James Cagney, Joan Blondell, Louis Cal- tective tale lacking all the elements of sus- hern, Noel Frances. Direction by Roy pense and thrill necessary for this type of story. The action takes place on an ocean del Ruth. Warner Bros. liner where the hunted bank robber tries to The story deals with a bell-boy and a pin his guilt upon an innocent woman. chambermaid who leave the hotel where Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 they are employed and become involved in a racket. Dialogue and situations are crude No No and vulgar and demoralizing for young audi- rW ences. The picture is especially vicious in » » that it makes a hero of this boy who is a DELICIOUS to law-abiding citizens society menace and Janet Gaynor, Charles Farrell, El Bren- in general. del, Paul Roulien. Direction by David Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No Butler. Fox. c+J> This picture is a delightful result of the combination of Janet Gaynor’s winning per- THE CHAMP *> » sonality and an entertaining story. It is well Wallace Beery, Jackie Cooper. Direction directed and technically above the average. Janet Gaynor as “Heather” little by King Vidor. M.G.M. the Scotch immigrant is first seen in the steerage of an “The Champ” stirs one’s emotions, but ocean liner bound for America. She and wholesomely. The story is not great nor her friends, a family of Russian musicians, unusual. It is that of a reprobate who makes are full of hope and expectation and are Motion Picture Reviews Five

longing for the moment when they shall set forms. It would be positively dangerous for foot upon American soil. Heather’s adven- children to see them. tures upon landing, her pluck, her heart aches Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 and her eventual happiness draw strongly No! Absolutely not! on the sympathies of her audience. The story is a sentimental one and the unfolding of the C-f-S plot is obvious, but there are certain traits THE GALLOPING GHOST » » of character and emotions everyone likes to see depicted especially by a dainty little ac- Red Grange. Direction by Reaves Eason. tress. Highlights of the picture are the scenes All Star. Mascot serial, 12 Chapters, 7 with the Russian family at home, and Heather previewed. bewildered in the terrifying rush of New Football of York. The Russian troupe’s little pantomime and the popularity Red Grange bait to attract attention dance is a gem, El Brendel furnishes real have been made the comedy, and Charles Farrell looks very like to this serial story. But football is used only a Hollywood movie idol while Gershwin’s as the motive for a betting ring, and the turmoil music is an interesting and integral part of action immediately becomes the usual the entertainment. of criminal brutality, drunkenness, fights, kidnapping, and actual murder. In addition Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 to the stirring action, sound has been used to Excellent Somewhat beyond accentuate terror, and we believe it is a them dangerous form of entertainment for children.

Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 No No THE FALSE MADONNA » » Kay Francis, William Boyd. Adapted » » from the story “The Heart is Young” by GOOD SPORT May Edginton. Direction by Stuart Linda Watkins, John Boles. Direction by Walker. Paramount-Publix. Kenneth MacKenna. Fox.

A woman member of a blackmailing gang The story concerns Marilyn Parker who impersonates the mother of a child. His discovers that her husband has taken his affectionate trust completes her desire for mistress on a gay trip to Paris, and there- reformation. It is a romantic tale made upon resolves to understudy that question- entertaining for adults undoubtedly by the able lady’s friends in order to become pro- personalities of the cast. In less capable ficient in the art of ensnaring men. With hands the incredible plot would be more ap- such a motif the play might be far worse parent. Because it is the antithesis of real than it is. More than a little restraint has life we hesitate to recommend it for im- been used by the director, and the cast is pressionable youth, although the action is not excellent, but it would be difficult to find demoralizing. moral value in this play which emphasizes Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 the attractiveness of extra legal relations and Not recommended No the inadequacy of marital bonds. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 C'KO No No FRANKENSTEIN » » Colin Clive, Boris Karloff, Mae Clarke. ctJ Adapted from the story by Mary Woll- stonecraft Shelly. Direction by James THE GUILTY GENERATION » » Whale. Universal. Leo Carillo, Constance Cummings, Boris Mary Wollstonecraft Shelly’s fantastic Karloff. Direction by Roland V. Lee. classic has been made into a picture which Columbia. in exceeds all precedent for ghastly thrills. Seen preview. There are some stories which we believe are Gangster films have ceased to be a novelty, not adapted to motion pictures because the and this one is probably as accurate in its human mind is more impressed by visual portrayal as most. Two rival Italian families horror. This is one; and the masterful way are almost annihilated by the retaliating in which it is presented accentuates its terri- murders. Leo Carillo injects some humor into ble characteristics. It is the story of a medi- an otherwise ghastly plot. Some of the cast cal scientist who attempts to create a living look more Anglo Saxon than Italian but they man, and succeeds in producing a monster. play their parts well. The climax comes when There are few adults who will enjoy the Leo Carillo is shot by his own mother to pre- succession of beastly acts this creature per- vent him from having his son-in-law, who is Six Motion Picture Reviews

related to the rival gangster, killed along concerns a college student who suffers from with his own daughter. an inferiority complex and consoles himself by writing letters to girl. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 an unknown With the aid of coincidence, lucky breaks, and the Too ghastly Too ghastly interest of the girl he finally makes good. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 C't'S Very entertaining Possibly mature

HIS WOMAN » » Claudette Colbert, Gary Cooper. Direc- » » tion by Edward Sloman. Paramount- THE MAD GENIUS Publix. John Barrymore. Direction by Michael Claudette Colbert reforms and Gary Curtiz. Warner Bros. Cooper forgets her past, all because they both You will not be disappointed in this film to baby. This sentimental learn love a stray if you go to it rather as a connoisseur of melodrama of a sea going baby, a captain dramatic impersonations than as one seeking lady, takes place on a and a questionable entertainment, for Barrymore is convincing tramp freighter somewhere on the Carribbean. and will be applauded by his admirers. His the splendid sea shots and the fact that Even role however is an unsympathetic one, and the is a star actor cannot wipe out the the baby plot is gloomy and somewhat fantastic. “The atmosphere which makes it unwholesome Mad Genius” is a club-footed individual doubtful entertainment for the young. with a scraggley goatee and thin moustache. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 He has been thwarted in his own ambition No No to become a dancer and is fanatically deter- mined to make an expert dancer of someone OK9 else. A murder adds to the dismal effect. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 A HOUSE DIVIDED » » Too gloomy Depressing and Walter Huston, Kent Douglass, Helen uninteresting Chandler. Directed by William Wyler. Universal Pictures Corp.

splendidly acted tragedy of the conflict A POSSESSED » » between father and son for the right to marry a girl, ending only with the father’s death. Joan Crawford, Clark Gable. Adapted The realism of this picture is too somber and from the play “Mirage” by Edgar Sel- cruel for juniors but the magnificent photo- wyn. Direction by Clarence Brown. M. graphy, acting and fine direction may recom- G.M. mend it to discriminating audiences, although it is stark drama with little or no relief. An ambitious working girl from a paper Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 box factory goes to New York and through No No improbable circumstances becomes the mistress of a wealthy man. In three years her character changes from a naive but determin- » » LADY FROM NOWHERE ed country girl to that of a finished and Alice Day, John Holland. Chesterfield charming lady. She is accorded all the love and honor bestowed upon exceptional wives Productions. and continues in this relationship until it be- type, Just another “movie” of the gangster comes inconvenient for her lover who is being an innocent girl again the unwitting tool, proposed for Governor. The director has this time of counterfeiters. It will fill an made this social problem appear convincing empty hour, but without profit. and attractive. Handsome clothes, luxurious Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 surroundings and a popular cast add to the No No allure which seems to represent the peak of sophisticated c±s> a modern attitude toward social behavior. It is because of this, that such » » LOCAL BOY MAKES GOOD pictures are dangerous. The trashiness is hid- Joe E. Brown. Direction by Mervyn den so completely by trappings that thought- Leroy. First National and Vitaphone. less and youthful spectators are deceived. It is perniciously immoral. An unnecessary and implausible drunken scene mars this otherwise highly entertain- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ing and commendable comedy. The story Absolutely not No Motion Picture Reviews Seven

RECKLESS LIVING » » SURRENDER » » Ricardo Cortez, Mae Clark, Marie Pre- Warner Baxter, Leila Hyams, Audrey vost. Universal. Smith, Alexander Kirkland. Direction by William K. Howard. Fox. There is nothing new to say about this sort of picture. It has to do with a group of The poignant and appealing characteriz- gamblers, one of whom tries to attain in- ations of this picture make a gripping story dependence through his earnings in the boot- of war with its suffering and its devastation. legging business. It is not at all entertain- Frank Swales as “Hugo” and Alexander ing for any audience. Kirkland as “Dietrich” give dramatic and Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 beautiful performances. The intensity and No No pathos may prove too harrowing for children but it will probably appeal to the average c+s adult audience. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 STRICTLY DISHONORABLE » » Very harrowing No

Sidney Fox, Lewis Stone, Paul Lukas. Adapted from stage play by William C*-9 Sturges. Direction by John Stahl. Uni- TONIGHT NEVER » » versal. OR Gloria Swanson. Melvyn Douglas. Those who enjoyed the original may not Di- rection by Harold B. Franklin. care equally for the screen presentation, United Artists. though actually it is a smoothly entertaining comedy. Its “naughtiness” has been some- This play, whether on stage or screen, is of what softened, but the action takes place in the subtle variety that tends by wT itty lines an Italian New York speakeasy, and the and glamorous situations to condone a serious- theme demands a thoroughly sophisticated ly unconventional thesis. The atmosphere is adult audience who will accept the story with charming, yet the plot clearly justifies moral the lack of seriousness intended. laxity. Deftly acted and directed for sophis- Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 ticated audiences, it is slow poison for im- No No mature judgment. Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 C*-9 Absolutely not No interest

SUICIDE FLEET » » G+3 Bill Boyd, Robert Armstrong, James » » Gleason. Direction by Albert Rogell. TOUCHDOWN

R.K.O.-Pathe. Richard Arlen, J. Farrell McDonald, Three seamen in love with the same girl Jack Oakie, Regis Toomey, Peggy Shan- evoke many laughs, though occasionally the non. Direction by Norman McCloud. humor extends to vulgarity with the inevit- Paramount-Publix. able introduction of bars and blowsy women. “Touchdown” is a novel football story. It

This might leave little impression on ado- deals with a subject frequently under dis- lescents who would certainly like the balance cussion among football fans and presents the of the picture. In the latter part of the pic- problems of a college professional coach ture “Suicide Fleet” becomes a spirited tale whose unethical methods of securing star of adventure and patriotism in which a decoy players and ruthless treatment of the boys in ship, manned by Americans, aids in the games, makes him a dangerous foe to sports- demolition of German submarines. It fails manship. This in contrast to another splen- in being consistently good, but is entertain- did leader whose ideals are of the highest. ing once it gets under way. It is a great lesson in fair play, telling a Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 colorful spirited story with a quick tempo and Passable Too exciting a variety of scenes, in which parts of actual Eight Motion Picture Reviews games are introduced and perfect continuity melodramatically acted and with plenty of kept. The result is a picture of more than pathos and comedy to sustain interest. Seth, ordinary interest and entertainment value. the kindly town father, is the puppeteer who manipulates the strings and guides the actions Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 Recommended Good and destinies of the neighborhood characters. Village life with its tragedies, its prejudices

oo and its humor is a theme which seems to be perenially popular for family entertainment. » » WAY BACK HOME The problems touched upon are of the kind Philip Lloyd, Effie Palmer, Frank Albert- that are typical of small town scandal, and son, Bette Davis, Frankie Darro. Direct- while they may be considered mature for

ed by William Seiter. R.K.O. children, their working out is handled skill-

Those who listen to Seth Parker on the fully and with emphasis on the virtues of radio will be particularly interested in “Way charity and kindness. Back Home.” It is a homely, New England Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 to 12 tale with substantial character types, rather Yes Mature

SHORT SUBJECTS *

» » » » CAMERARING IN CHINA I AM FROM SIAM Professor Tippey’s series. (One reel). Accompanying description by Mr. D. S. Talking Picture Epics. Garden. Picture Classics, Inc.

A travelogue picturing Peking and the sur- This is an exceedingly interesting and in- rounding country, including the great wall of structive travelogue which gives one a better China. The photography and selected materi- understanding of Siam and the Siamese peo- al is excellent. The descriptive talk is not so notable. It will be interesting to all audi- ple. It includes exclusive pictures of the ences and is especially appropriate for youth- cremation ceremonies of the former King and ful ones. the coronation of King Prajahipok. 03 03 CHILDREN OF THE SUN » » Vagabond Adventures. Pathe. ISLE OF BIRDS » » The charm and quiet peace of this vaga- (One reel). Talking Picture Epics. bond wandering in Central America is depict- Very interesting pictures of the islands off ed in a beautifully photographed picture. the coast of Peru which are inhabited by 03 millions of birds, notably Guano and Pelicans. COWBOY CABARET » » It is instructive and entertaining for all audi- Aesop Fable. Pathe. ences. A vulgar cartoon with suggestive dancing 03 and bottle throwing. Not up to the usual animated cartoon standard. Not recommended. KIDDIE GENIUS » »

03 Produced by M. J. Weisfeldt for Picture Classics, Inc. HIGH ANDES » » Four diversified acts presented by talented Produced by Lowell Thomas. Talking children. The charm of the picture is found Picture Epics. in the natural, unself-conscious way in which Very beautiful pictures of the High Andes perform. Entertaining for all which will prove interesting entertainment to the children all audiences. ages. > Motion Picture Reviews Nine

PACK AND SADDLE » » sode, depicted without skill or artistry, is a Grantland Rice Sportlight. R.K.O. rehearsal of sordid crime details rather than an entertainment. Its only redeeming feature » This is too simple and amateurish in con- is the warning it illustrates against being too ception for the average audience. In spite easily decoyed into trouble. The plot depicts of fine mountain and snow scenes, the sketch the case, already familiar through newspaper of game hunting in the Wyoming mountains accounts, of a Hollywood woman who was is actually dull. kidnapped but eventually rescued through the to 12 Adolescents, 12 to 16 Children, 8 cleverness of a telephone operator. It is not Fair Fair recommended for adolescents and children. 0-9 0-9 PITCHING FORM » » THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS » » (with Rusty Grove.) Talking Picture Produced by David Horseley. Epics. Antiquated silent feature based on the old Baseball fans will be interested in seeing poem “The Night Before Christmas.” “Lefty” Grove’s exhibition as a pitcher in 0-9 natural slow-motion pictures. TAPA AND TAPU » » 0-9 Produced by Emma Squire. Talking RIDER OF RILEY » » Picture Epics. Grantland Rice Sportlight. R.K.O. An interesting picture of customs of the A Sportlight revealing the amazing horse- people of the Samoa Islands. Well selected manship of officers at Fort Riley, well photo- incidents which should prove entertaining to graphed and recorded. A thrilling polo game all audiences. takes place, as well as cross-country riding with stunts which seem well-nigh incredible. 0-9 The film rates high in entertainment value UP BELOW THE EQUATOR » » for all ages. Produced by Emma Lindsey Squier. 0-9 Talking Picture Epics. One reel. Unusual scenes of life in the Andes moun- SWIFT JUSTICE » » tains in Peru, accompanied by descriptive Spencer Gordon Bennett Production. talk by Mrs. Squier which is delightful in This Nick Harris authentic detective epi- every way. Recommended for all audiences.

I Ten Motion Picture Reviews

INDEX JULY TO DECEMBER, 1931

FEATURE FILMS Graft ... October Great Lover, The August A Guardsman, The - October Guilty Generation, The December Guilty - Age For Love, The - December Hands September Alexander Hamilton ... July Ambassador Bill .... November H American Tragedy, An ... September Annabelle's Affairs ... July Heart Break November Anybody’s Blonde - December Heaven On Earth October Are These Our Children ? - - November High Stakes September Arizona ..... August His Woman December Around the World in Eighty Minutes December Holy Terror, A - - July Arrowsmith ..... December Homicide Squad, The November Honeymoon Lane - August B House Divided, A December Huckleberry Finn September Bad Company ..... October Hush Money July Bad Girl ...... August Bargain, The ..... October Beloved Bachelor, The ... November I Big Business Girl .... August I Like Your Nerve October Big Gamble ..... September I Take This Woman July Big Shot ..... December Immortal Vagabond, The September Blonde Crazy - December Bought ...... September J Branded ...... July Brat, The - September Juvenile Court November Business and Pleasure ... September Just A Gigolo - July C L Caught - ..... August Lady From Nowhere December Caught Plastered .... August Lasca Of The Rio Grande October Champ, The .... - December Last Company. The October Chances ...... August Last Flight, The October Cheat, The ..... December Local Boy Makes Good December Children of Dreams August .... Lost Valley ... September Cisco Kid, The .... October Lover Come Back July Common Law, The .... September Consolation Marriage ... November Confession of A Co-Ed, The ... July M Convicted ..... December Mad Genius December Cougar, or California Mountain Lion November Mad Parade, The October Cuban Love Song .... November Magnificent Lie, The September Man In Possession, The July D Merely Mary Ann September Danger Island August Miracle Woman, The August Daughter of The Dragon August Monkey Business September Delicious - December Monsters Of The Deep July Devotion ... October Mother and Son - October Dreyfus Case November Murder By The Clock August Drums Of Jeopardy July My Sin ... October E Everything’s Rosie July N F Night Angel, The August Night Life In Reno October False Madonna, The - December Fanny Foley Herself - November Five and Ten July O Five Star Final November Flying High November Once A Lady November Forbidden Adventure July Other People’s Business Frankenstein December See Way Back Home Hill - - Free Soul, A July Over The November Freighters Of Destiny November Friends And Lovers October P G Pagan Lady, The November Palmy Days November Galloping Ghost (Serial) December Party Husband July Gay Diplomat - October Penrod And Sam September Get Rich Quick Wallingford October Personal Maid October Girl Habit, The August Phantom Of Paris, The October Girls About Town November Pleasure ... October Gold Dust Gertie July Politics ... September Goldie .... - July Possessed ... December Good Sport - - - December Public Defender August Motion Picture Reviews Eleven

s SHORT SUBJECTS Rebound ... July Aesop Fables Reckless Hour, The - September Cowboy Cabaret - - - December Reckless Ladies December Family Shoe - November Reckless Living - - - December Flying High - - - - October Rich Man’s Folly November Fun On Ice - - - - September Riders Of The Purple Sage October Love In A Pond - - - October - November Road to Reno. The Blue Rhythm - - - - October Road to Singapore, The November Ruling Voice, The November Calling On Cairo - October Run Around, The September Ex Rooster - November Floyd Gibbons Supreme Thrills S Turn Of The Tide - November Woodrow Wilson’s Great Decision October Salvation Nell _ - August Grantland Rice Sportlights Secret Call, The . - August Battling Silver Kings - - - September Secret Service - - November Blue Grass Kings - - July Secrets Of A Secretary - - September Olympic Talents - October Side Show . - October Pack and Saddle - - - December Sidewalks Of New York - - October Pigskin Progress - October Silence - - - . - September Poise ------September Sin Of Madelon Claudet, The - - November Rider Of Riley - - - December Skyline - - - - October Younger Years - October Smart Money - - - July - - - - December Smart Woman - - October High Andes - September Smiling Lieutenant, The - July Honeymoon Trio Sob Sister _ - October I Am From Siam - December Son Of India . - August Idle Roomers - November Spider, The - - September In A Clock Shop - - - October Spirit Of Notre Dame, The November Kiddie Genius - December Sporting Blood - - September Cartoons Squaw Man, The - October Mickey Mouse Broadcast November Star Witness, The - - September Barnyard Delivery - August Street Scene - October Boy Fishin’ - - - October Strictly Dishonorable - . December Around - - - October Suicide Fleet . December Mickey Steps Out - - - August Sundown Trail - - November Moose Hunt Surrender - December Mystery In Compartment C, The October Susan Lennox - - November Night Before Christmas - December Sweepstakes - July One Quiet Night - September Pathe Audio Review No. 4 November I Queenie Of Hollywood October Tamale Vendor, The - September Their Mad Moment August Battling With Buffalo Bill October This Modern Age September Galloping Ghost - - - December Three Who Loved August King Of The Wild October Tip Off, The October Vanishing Legion - October Tonight or Never December Silly Symphony Cartoons Too Many Cooks September Busy Beavers - August Too Young To Marry - July Cat’s Nightmare - - - October Touchdown December China Plate - August Transatlantic August Egyptian Melodies - - - October Transgression July Spider And The Fly November Traveling Husbands - September Swift Justice - - - - December Twenty-four Hours September Talking Picture Epics Two Fisted Justice - November Cameraring In China December Dutch Treat - October Ghost Town - - - October U Heart Of A Nation July Hell Below Zero - October Unholy Garden - November Isle Of Birds - December Land That Time Forgot - October V Navajo Witch - - - - October Pitching Form - Vice Squad, The ----- July December Viking ------July Pompeii - - - - - October Singing Waters - - - October Tapa And Tapu - December W Top The Old World October Waterloo Bridge - - - - September Tropic Lure - October Way Back Home Up Below The Equator - December - Same as Other People’s Business - December That’s My Meat November Terris West Of Broadway - November Tom Vagabond Adventures - White Devil, The - - - - October Balinese Love November Wicked ------October Children Of The Sun December Woman Between, The - September Fallen Empire - September Woman Breaker .... November Song Of The Voodoo November Women Go On Forever - - - September Utmost Isle - October Women Love Once - - - - July Torchy ----- October Torchy Passes The Buck - November Y Up Pops The Duke - September Yellow Ticket, The - - - - November What A Bozo - September

Scanned from the collection of Margaret Herrick Library Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

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