The characters are insignificant puppets; the situations are replete with refined slapstick and flippant chatter just one level above that of a mediocre burlesque show, and Noel Coward's personality remains aloof in the background. He is there; for he is, without any doubt, a superior showman who knows the mood of the public. As a movie, "Private Lives" is one of the few that will keep your interest to the end. The photography is particularly skillful in the Alps scenes, and is never slipshod. Robert Montgomery and Norma Shearer are convincing lunatics, boisterously funny.

"The Working Man," also showing at the University today stars Mr. Arliss who is the shoe manufacturer. He takes a vacation and meets the son and daughter of a dead friend who was his rival in business. These children are wasting their fortune on liquor and debauches. Mr. Arliss is an amusing angel who guides the youngsters back to respectability. As usual, he acts in his own inimitable, unchangeable style. "The Working Man" is suitable for the children; so is "Three Little Pigs."