Exhibitor's Trade Review (Jun-Aug 1922)

June 3, 1922 EXHIBITORS TRADE REVIEW 63 The Cradle Buster TuttleWaller Production. Released by American Releasing Co. Story and Scenario by Frank Tuttle. Cameraman, Fred Waller, Jr. Directed by Frank Tuttle. Length, 5947. CAST AND SYNOPSIS Benjamin Franklin Eeed, Glenn Hunter; Gay Dixon, Marguerite Oourtot; "Blarney" Dixon, William H. Tooker ; Melia Prout, Mary Foy ; Polly Ann Parsons, Lois Blaine; "Spoony," Osgood Perkins; Holeomb Berry, TOwnsend Martin; Mrs. Reed, Beatrice Morgan. Benjamin Franklin Keed, otherwise known as "Sweetie," resents the way he has been tied to his mother's apron strings, and decides on the occasion of his twenty-first birthday to strike out and be a man. He smokes his first cigar, looks over the morning paper, and' is attracted to a picture of a dancer appearing at a local amusement paSk cabaret. He takes his first venture, and while in the cabaret the "jazz baby" comes over to, him and sings a "kiss" song. He chases her to the stage, violently kisses her before the audience and then goes back to her dressing room to apologize. That starts the romance. A few days later thetv decide to eloi>e, but are intercepted. The girl is taken back by her father. "Sweetie" learns of a plot the jealous clown has planned to kill the girl. After a desperate stnig'gle he succeeds in rescuing her and shortly aftenvards starts on a real honeymoon. The Cradle Buster can easily be classed as one of the best juvenile comedies that bas been put on the screen recently. There is so much realism about it that "strikes home," the picture is bound to have a wide appeal. In addition to the refreshing comedy there is a more serious side that at all times is well placed and effective. With laughs steadily piling up and first-rate thrills and suspense constantly developing, there is little left to be desired at the close of this very entertaining film. Points of Appeal. — Every boy always looks forward with great anticipation to his twenty-first birthday. Benjamin Franklin Reed^s sudden assertion of his independence is one that will delight everyone who sees it. The love strain that goes along with the picture has sufficient charm to even up the story. Cast. — This picture . is the first starring vehicle of Glenn Hunter. His portrayal of "Sweetie" is delightful and natural. It would be difficult to find any serious fault with his conception of the self-conscious boy who is suddenly awakened to his manhood. Marguerite Courtot, his leading lady, is very pleasing to gaze upon and also does some good acting. Each member of the supporting cast gives fine assistance. Photography, Lighting, Direction, — The photography throughout the picture is splendid. Interiors are attractive and good in detail. The lighting has been done with skill and effectiveness. Continuity easy and full of action. Direction 0. K. William Fox Production. Story by Charles Sarver and Virginia Tracy. Cameraman, Harry Plimpton. Directed by J. Gordon Edwards. Length, Approximately Nine Reels. CAST AND SYNOPSIS Nero, Jacques Gretillat; Horatius, Alexander Salvlni; Tullius, Guido Trento ; Otho, Bnzo De Felice; The Apostle, Nero Bernardi ; Hercules, Adolfo Trouche; Galba, Nello Carolenuto ; Gracchus. Americo De Giorgio ; Garth, Alfredo Galaor ; A Itoman General, Fernando Cecilia; A Roman Captain, Enrico Kant; Poppsea, Paulette Duval; Acte, Edy Darelea ; Mareia, Violet Mersereau; Julia, Lina Talba ; First Handmaiden, L.vdia Yaguinto ; Second Handmaiden, Maria Marchiali. Nero, Emperor of Rome, takes as his consort Poppsea, who is the wife of one of his soldiers. During the time of the conquests Galba, who is with the armies in the field, sends Horatius into the Vannian Kingdom to bring back as hostage the Princess Marcia. Horatius falls in love with the girl and wishes to follow her to Rome, but duty takes him to Spain. Wlien he returns to Rome great honors are paid him, and Nero promises him anything he desires. Horatius chooses Marcia and his wish is granted. When the Emperor sees the girl he offers Horatius great wealth to give him back his word. Horatius refuses, and under cover of the storm escapes with her to his villa at Capua. He learns that Marcia has become a Christian and must have the Apostle's consent to wed. Meanwhile great hatred is being aroused against the Emperor, and when he has Rome burned to satisfy liis own selfish desire they rise up and storm the palace. To quiet them he tells them that the Christians have set Are to the city, and promises his people a magnificent spectacle by allowing them, to witness the feeding of the Christians to the lions in the big arena. While the spectacle is going on Horatius, who was at one time the idol of the city, pleads for Marcia's life, but Nero's thumb goes down against him. While they are in the arena word reaches Nero that Galba has been proclaimed Emperor. Realizing that the end of hig power means death, he chooses to have one of his own soldiers stab him. Andl so ends the last of the Caesars. A spectacular production of compelling magnificence and beauty that has been done in Italy reaches our shores in the Fox presentation of Nero. The picture with its many choice settings was made in and around Rome under the direction and supervision of an American staff. The tragedy picturing the events taking place in Rome during the reign of Nero is so vividly done that the interest is keyed up to the top pitch from beginning to end. Tense situations and thrills abound in the second half 'of the picture and bring the story to a close with a tremendous climax. Points of Appeal. — Aside from the gorgeous spectacle that this picture offers, the story qualifies in every respect as highclass entertainment. The beautiful love story of Marcia and Horatius brings in the persecution of the Christians. The scenes in the arena, chariot races, lions and warriors all carry a thrill. The colored effects in the burning of the city, the fires of victory and lighted torches are beautifully done. Cast. — A large and capable cast has been chosen throughout the picture. It is particularly gratifying to witness the performance of Violet Mersereau as Marcia. Indeed, so splendid is the acting on the part of each member that too much praise could hardly be given. Photography, Lighting, Direction. — Perfection seems to have been the keynote of this production. Excellent photography, exceptional lighting, and 100 per cent direction.