The Moving picture world (January 1920-February 1920)

February 7, 1920 THE MOVING PICTURE WORLD 913 Edwin Car ewe Finishes "Rio Grande" Based on Play by Augustus Thomds "Woman God Sent" Nears Completion. According to a report from the Selznick offices "The Woman God Sent" is Hearing completion, and it will probably be sent to the cutting room next week. According to Larry Trimble, the director, the principal players, Sena Keefe, and Joe King, are doing some excellent work in this picture. To Rebuild and Enlarge Baltimore's Wilson Theatre THE WILSON THEATRE, Baltimore, which has been under the management of Guy L. Wonders since it opened, is to be rebuilt and enlarged to have a seating capacity of 2,500, and approximately $750,000 will be spent on the construction. The designs are being prepared by architect E. G. Blanke. The plot of ground which will be used for the enlarging of the New Wilson is now occupied by the Church of the Messiah, which was built at the corner of Gay and Fayette streets over 80 years ago. It is estimated that the area of the new theatre, when completed, will be approximately 20,000 square feet. For many months negotiations for purchasing the church property have been going on and the transaction delayed due to some of the older members of the Church of the Messiah being against the abandonment of church activities at that location. Also the approval of Bishop John Gardner Murray, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, and the consent of the vestries of Christ and Grace Churches had to be gained. The cost of the property is said to have been about $2,500 per front foot. The church property will be taken over on .A.pril 12. Builders who wish to bid on the work will be given detailed plans for estimates about March 1. It is thought probable that the theatre will be completed about September 15. Original Title Restored on Priscilla Dean Film UNIVERSAL officials have decided to title Priscilla Dean's latest production, "The Virgin of Stamboul." This Jewel production was five months in the making, under the direction of Tod Browning. The story by H. H. Van Loan was entitled "The Virgin of Stamboul," but owing to the story centering about a beggar girl of Constantinople, the title "The Beautiful Beggar" was decided on. Mr. Van Loan, remonstrated against this, wiring as follows: "Consensus opinion big majority producers is that real title for Priscilla Dean picture should be "The Virgin of Stamboul." Sennett, Ince, Lesser, and others told me this is one of best titles ever heard. Asked me why you changed. They say this title suggests big picture and also interests curiosity. Others outside industry have told me it is a shame to chance such a good title. "Virgin of Stamboul" is best title. You can't beat it." To which Carl Laemmle replied: "It is one of our best pictures. Tod Browning and Priscilla Dean and yourself are a combination which cannot be beat. It's a fine story with a great plot. You wrote it. You ought to know. You title it. Carl Laemmle." WORD has just reached the Pathe executive offices that Edwin Carewe has finished the picturization of the Augustus Thomas stage play "Rio Grande," and the film is now on the way to the East. It is said to be a remarkable revelation of present-day conditions in Mexico, particularly in the border states, and to have many dramatic and picturesque moments. As a stage play, the piece was a big success and met with popular approv.al throughout the country. The film version is a much amplified and a more picturesque revelation of Mexican conditions and of the influences that make for trouble along the border. Big Scenes in the Picture. There are many big spectacular scenes in the production, notably a dance in the Hacienda of a wealthy Mexican and a raid by Mexican bandits on American territory. In the dance scene one hundred Spanish dancers were brought from Mexico City to participate.. Their colorful costumes and their grace have created a scene of striking interest. One of the important dramatic moments of the production develops in this setting. The raid scene was filmed last of all, and the greatest care was taken to get the emphasis of reality. Five hundred cowboys and Mexicans and many Texas rangers were employed. The attack of the Mexican bandits occurs about dawn when they ride swiftly in upon an American ranch, shooting down the caretakers, and riding away with the cattle. The actual battle is said to be one of the most thrilling scenes ever put upon the screen. The cast is headed by Rosemary Theby, as the half Spanish, half Mexican heroine and Allan Sears plays the part of the Irishman, who finally wins her. Many others well known to devotees of the screen were engaged. Allen Opens Another Theatre. The seventh picture theatre in the Allen Toronto chain opened January 12. Mayor Church, of Toronto, and other prominent officials officiated, giving brief addresses while telegrams from prominent moving picture people were read. The new house, which is called Allen's St. Clair is a community theatre at St. Clair avenue and Duffering street, seats 1,800 persons on two floors. There is a pipe organ and an orchestra of eight. Luigi Romanelli, general musical director of the Allen Enterprises, rendered a special violin solo. The director of the St. Clair orchestra is Carl Sturm while the manager is W. H. W. Edward, who formerly had charge of Allen's Bloor Theatre The policy of the theatre is to change programs twice weekly. The Aliens have two more new theatres under construction in Toronto, one being for the College street district and the other for the West End or Parkdale section. With these theatres in operation, the Aliens will have practically a new theatre in every section of the Ontario capital.