The Columbia production "Twentieth Century," at RKO Keith's this week, affords an excellent antidote for Divisional post mortems or a pleasing apertif for finals, as the case may be Based on the show hit "Napoleon of Broadway," this saga of the stage was dressed up to Hollywood style by Ben Heeht and Charles Mac Arthur who gave it new lines, exaggerated the heroic, and knew John Barrymore would have the lead. Unlike its predecessors of the "Shanghai Express" variety, "Twentieth Century" has no villains, bandits, or languishing females, but is graced with a frantic, egomaniae producer (John Barrymore), his irrepressive, temperamental actress (Carole Lombard) and ensuing fireworks.

In casting Barrymore as flourishing Oscar Jaffee, Columbia has found a way to please old fans who like his profile, gestures, gesticulations, etc.,. and at the same time to acquire new admirers, for John plays his fantastic comedy to perfection. "Twentieth Century" is a pleasing vehicle for the display of her charms and talent.