Exhibitors Herald (Dec 1921 - Mar 1922)

54 EXHIBITORS HERALD January 14, 1922 DIGEST/ PICTURES of tAeWEEK Homer Lea story, by Eve Unsell and Garret Elsden Fort, and makes a fitting vehicle for the talented Japanese actor. "SKY HIGH" (Fox) is a first-rate Western with the added attraction of having been photographed in the Grand Canyon of Arizona. Tom Mix has the stellar role and as usual puts life into the various thrilling situations and it is a picture that will keep Mix followers on the edges of their seats. Lynn F. Reynolds directed this five part feature. "LOVE'S REDEMPTION" (First National) is Norma Talmadge's latest production. It presents a story of Jamaica and England, with Harrison Ford in the role of a wealthy plantation owner who is saved from himself by Ginger, an Island drudge, the part played by Miss Talmadge. Not as strong a vehicle as some of her former plays. Directed by Albert Parker. "THE GRIM COMEDIAN" (Goldwyn) is made acceptable through effective direction and a splendid performance by Jack Holt. The story was written for Goldwyn by Rita Weiman, and contains much familiar material. It relates the story of an actress who gives up her life of ease and luxury with a wealthy roue, to save her daughter from contamination. It is in six reels and Holt's work is the outstanding feature. "THE LAW AND THE WOMAN" (Paramount) is an adaptation of Clyde Fitch's stage success "The Woman in the Case." Penryhn Stanlaws directed it and it is an excellent melodrama from every angle. It has punch, suspense, and considerable good acting. "THE POWER WITHIN" (Pathe) is an interesting story by Robert Norwood pointing a lesson that grips and holds the attention. It is based on a great truth presented in an impressive manner. Clergymen and others who are not in the habit of attending motion picture shows will, without a doubt, endorse it. RUPERT HUGHES, at a luncheon given in New York last Friday, discussed at some length the practice of present day critics who take particular delight in "roasting" motion pictures. Mr. Hughes said "the motion pictures should not be frightened or humiliated or bulled by these critics who say that the motion pictures are not an art. One critic recently wrote a ferocious attack in which he Solemnly stated that the motion picture is an industry and not an art. Even if he had known the difference or had been qualified to decide, what difference does it make whether you call motion pictures an art, an industry, an amusement or a merchandise? The main thing is that they should be attractive as motion pictures." And the majority of people, whether producers, exhibitors or picture devotees, will agree with Mr. Hughes. Fortunately there are not many of the old style critics left, those who considered Chaplin a mountebank and not worthy of serious consideration, and the industry is better off for their passing. — J. R. M. "THE SIN FLOOD" (Goldwyn) presented with a special cast is one of the most unusual pictures of the season. The story is remarkable in many respects and is full of tense, dramatic situations that drives home a message that touches the heart. It is in six parts and was directed by Frank Lloyd. "SHATTERED DREAMS" (Universal) stars Miss Du Pont and Herbert Heyes. Both are excellent in their respective roles as far as the story permits of any stellar acting by either. The picture has some interesting features in showing the two extremes, the world of the Apache and the sphere of the wealthy class, but is otherwise an ordinary production. "FIVE DAYS TO LIVE" (R-C Pictures) is Sessue Hayakawa's latest picture, presented a story of the Orient that is dramatic and very picturesque. It was adapted from "The Street of the Flying Dragon," a Two scenes from "Rent Free," Paramount's latest starring vehicle for Wallace Reid. It was directed by Howard Higgin.