Motography (Jan-Jun 1918)

April 6, 1918. MOTOGRAPHY 669 Fox Assembles Negative for "Salome' Theda Bara Super-Production, It Is Announced, Follows Bible Story Closely with Much Regard for Detail THE problem of cutting the enormous amount of film used to screen the pageantry and dramatic scenes of "Salome" is now being taken up by William Fox. The picture is a Theda Bara super-production made under the direction of J. Gordon Edwards, who had charge of ''Cleopatra." Mr. Fox announces that the cinema version follows closely the Bible story told by Josephus in his book, "The Antiquities of the Jews and the History of the Jewish Wars." It illustrates, with spectacular vividness, the various steps in the thrilling historical drama. The story is this: Herod Antipas, tetrarch of Galilee and Paraea, has contracted an illegal marriage with Herodias. wife of his brother Philip. Still strong in arms, but the real power of his dominion undermined by injustice and trickery, he is more interested in voluptuous entertainment than in the welfare of his people. He is falling deeper and deeper into moral degradation. Then comes John the Baptist, preaching the coming of a new kingdom, warning the sinful to repent, lashing Herod. Herodias and their unholy union with words of fire. He is hailed by the masses as a "second Elijah." The people follow him. rejoicing in his scornful denunciations of their hated rulers. But Herodias. incensed at his rebukes, plans John's destruction, using Salome and her wiles in an attempt to bring about his downfall. John, unmoved by Salome's enticements, fans the flames of hatred. One night, Herod, in the midst of a Wilson Praises Theatres PRAISE and appreciation of the nation-wide co-operation of the motion picture theatres in war publicity service is expressed by President Wilson in the following letter addressed to William McCormick Blair of Chicago, director of the Four Minute Men: "The motion picture theatres of the country are rendering so substantial a service in aiding the Four Minute Men as spokesmen of the national cause that I would not willingly fail to acknowledge the debt the country owes to these managers. Their response to requests has been hearty, and their co-operation is most helpful. "Will you please convey to them my appreciation of their aid in giving this exclusive privilege to your speakers? "Woodrow Wilson." The letter was read by 25,000 Four Minute Men during this week in motion picture theatres everywhere in the United States, Panama, Alaska, and Hawaii. debauch, calls upon the beautiful Salome to dance before his throne. She comes in response to his call and dances in wild abandon. Deep in wine and blinded by her sensuous appeal, Herod rashly offers her. a reward, "even unto the half of my kingdom." Salome thereupon makes her request for the head of John the Baptist "in a charger." Her wish is granted, and with it^, consummation ends one of the most moving tragedies that the world has ever known. Theda Bara as she appears in "Salome," a forthcoming William Fox release. Two New Sunshine Comedies "A Self Made Lady" and "The Waiter's Wasted Life" are the titles of two new ' Sunshine Comedies which Henry Lehrman has made for William Fox. An announcement from the Fox offices says that "A Self Made Lady" is ur>roariously funny and replete with mirthful stunts. There are thrills, ridiculous situations and clean wholesome fun. There is nothing coarse or vulgar. The story hinges on a "she-crook" who was sent to prison for seven days. A mistake is made by the jailer and she is kept behind the bars for seven years. When she is finally freed she wants to reform. She meets a male crook who refuses to permit her to travel the straight and narrow path. Like all of the Sunshine comedies, it is a two reeler. A swimming tank is used to speed up the fun.