Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 - 1955), Thursday 24 March 1932, page 9


AUSTRALIAN FILMS

'Sentimental, Bloke' Is Next STUDIO EXTENSIONS

Australian talking picture production has made great progress in Melbourne and Sydney in the past six months, and the time has now come when we may confidently expect the industry to be placed on a permanent basis, says the 'Herald.'

The extent to which activities will oc carried on in Melbourne will soon be known, because Efltee Film Productions has put its faith in 'The Sentimental Bloke,' which cost nearly £20,000, and will base its future policy upon the reception of that picture. If the public response is in accordance with expectations the company will immediately begin preparations for a more comprehensive programme, and consider the question of making provision for the simultaneous production

MISS FREDA BONNING, a talented member of the Jim Gerald Co.

of two pictures. This would mean an extension of studio accommodation and equipment. AUSTRALIAN STORIES Mr. F. W. Tliring, the managing director, has rigidly adhered to his original plan of. making Australian pictures from Australian stories. 'Pick and the Duffers,' when will cost about £15,000, is to follow 'His Royal Highness,' a musical farce upon which the company is now engaged.. It will cost more than £20,000. Mr. Thring hopes to make a big film of the pioneers of this country some day — an Australian 'Covered Wagon.' The part which 'The Sentimental Bloke' is now playing makes another interesting chapter in its romantic history. When one considers the extraordinary popularity of the poem, the play and the silent picture it comes as a shock to hear from C. J. Dennis that at one time he would gladly have accepted £100 for all rights. 'Doreen' was the first contribution to 'The Sentimental Bloke.' Thev thought of continuing the full story in verse did not come to Mr. Dennis . until months later. During the next two years he added verses until the work was complete. Then it was declined by a Melbourne publishing firm! TECHNICALLY PERFECT In Sydney Mr. Dennis received a very favorable offer. The author had signed an agreement, and was on his way to post the document when the thought occurred to him that the book might some day ba made into a play. He then wrote In a clause reserving dramatic, picture and platform rights. The Efftee production of 'The Sentimental Bloke' prqyes clearly that talking fi!ms of technical excellence can be

SCENE FROM 'EAST OF BORNEO.'

made in Australia. Since the pre-view took place several revisions have been made, and as a result the picture moves along more smoothly and convincingly. For this latest variation of his woris Mr. Dennis has provided an admirably planned scenario, covering most of Me highlights of the earlier productions on the silent screen and on the stage, but with the dialogue considerably improved. The principal character, that jf the Bloke himself, has been made d. more romantic personality than in previous conceptions in order that the love story of the Bloke and his Doreen may be more engaging to the general public.