Morning Bulletin (Queensland) (04/Nov/1930) - Blackmail
Details
- article: Blackmail
- newspaper: Morning Bulletin (Queensland) (04/Nov/1930)
- keywords: Alfred Hitchcock, Blackmail (1929), Scotland Yard, London
Links
Article
"BLACKMAIL"
AT TIVOLI TOMORROW
The first British all-talking film ever made in England will be shown at the Tivoli Theatre to-morrow night, when "Blackmail" will commence its Rockhampton season. It is claimed that this production was the first and best "talkie" to leave England. After its pre-view screening, the censors put a ban on "Blackmail," and would not allow it to be shown in the Commonwealth for several months. The decision caused quite a sensation, for this picture marked Britain's step into the "talkie." film world, and it depended upon the success of "Blackmail" whether the future of British "talkies" would be assured. In the end after considerable discussion the veto was removed.
When talking films were first launched on the movie-going public, much controversy was aroused as to the affect the movement would have on the British film industry. It was said by some that it would mean the downfall of Britain's newly-formed studios, whereas others foresaw that perfect English spoken on the screen and the musical geniuses of the Continent, would win for her the position of the foremost picture-producing country in the world. That this theory is correct is demonstrated by the fact that the public of Australia want good British "talkies."
English-speaking voices have an attraction of their own, and the few British "talkies" already released in this country, indicate that when Britain combines its good stars who possess good voices, with adequate direction, she will not have to fear competition from rival film producing concerns.
"Blackmail" is the most outstanding English attraction. It features a splendid English cast who possess excellent voices for sound-picture dialogue. Under the capable direction of Alfred Hitchcock, who produced the film in co-operation with Scotland Yard, "Blackmail" creates something new in film entertainment." In different countries of the world its success has been tremendous, and even "Variety" which is recognised as America's most severe critic, describes it as a landmark.
The season of "Blackmail" in Rockhampton is limited to three nights. It will be presented at the Tivoli with the comedy subject, "Her Hired Husband" and several shorts. As capacity audiences are anticipated, intending patrons are advised to book early
