The Moviegoer

It is sometimes said that the motion picture is the Peter Pan of the arts; Walter Wanger and United Artists are fast proving this dictum false. With "Algiers" and now with "Trade Winds," this week at Loew's State and Orpheum, a simple theme has been taken and developed through the ingenious use of technical devices into a powerful and moving drama. This is not to say that from a purely artistic point of view, "Trade Winds" is in a class with its predecessor, for it is not; but on the other hand this latest attempt will doubtless be even more popular because of the delightful humor that has been skillfully interwoven with the story. Fredric March, as Sam Wye, expert detective, is put on the trail of Joan Bennett, murderess, because of his peculiar fascination for beautiful women. Constantly harassed by Ann Sothern who, as "Dr. Livingston," easily walks away with the acting honors, and Ralph Bellamy, as an incredibly stupid detective, he traces her half way around the world and, of course, falls madly in love with her once she is caught. A rather unconvincing happy ending is the only weak note in the entire production.