MOVIEGOER

"The story of a great man is the story of his times" says the introduction to "Wilson." In putting together this valuable study of the life of Woodrow Wilson, Darryl Zanuck has succeeded in capturing the tremendous vitality of American life at the beginning of the century, while at the same time infusing a good deal of the homespun simplicity that America regards as its own.

This is a picture with a moral. In giving the story of Wilson's times, Zanuck has tried to give an indirect forecast of America's future. From Wilson's tragic failure he has drawn a powerful object lesson that America would do well to heed. To say that this picture has so far changed all American political thinking would not be true; but it cannot be denied that it has been a major factor in erasing isolationism of the millions who saw it.

"Wilson" is narratively almost as historically correct as the movies could make it. Everything is there: the brass bands booming down the aisles in a "Win with Wilson" rally; the tremendous voice of William Jennings Bryan at the 1916 Democratic convention to a background of "Onward Christian Soldiers"; the swelling enthusiasm of the American people for the first world war.

In presenting these highlights of history, several new techniques are used. Old newsreels are made to give effective pictures of world events of the time; accompanied by vigorous martial music they create the wonderful feeling of American power without words. The pictures of the political conventions are done with a magnificent enthusiasm. Bands blare, convention heads shout, people dance about madly: Yet the effect is invigorating, and the atmosphere of the political rally is brought across perfectly.

Through it all Alexander Knox gives and excellent performance as Wilson, when he forgets that he is the actor. Though the movie is a fusion of color, drama, and excitement, along with strong ideas and ideals, he keeps the personality of Wilson the individual always present.