Under The Southern Cross (1929)

Neither tribal custom, danger nor the sacred ban of 'tapu' could overcome the strength of his love.

Under the Southern Cross also known as The Devil's Pit or Taranga, is a 1929 American drama film set in New Zealand, directed by Lew Collins for Universal Studios, who also wrote the screenplay. Originally titled Taranga by the original director Alexander Markey, but was completed by Collins and released as Under the Southern Cross in 1929, then with the introduction of sound was given a soundtrack and retitled The Devil’s Pit in 1930. The film was shot on White Island, which has an active volcano. It is one of four films (with Down on the Farm, Hei Tiki and On the Friendly Road) which lay claim to be the first "New Zealand talkie", although dubious as the sound was added to the 1930 release in the United States. Only fragments of out-takes are left. The film probably has no connection with the 1927 British film of the same name, directed by Gustav Pauli.

Director: Lewis D. Collins
Genre: Documentary, Drama
Runtime: 57 min
Release Date:

Cast

Screenplay

Music: Bathie Stuart
Editing: Hugh Hoffman
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Lewis D. Collins
More Films in Genre: Documentary, Drama

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Under The Southern Cross about?
Under the Southern Cross also known as The Devil's Pit or Taranga, is a 1929 American drama film set in New Zealand, directed by Lew Collins for Universal Studios, who also wrote the screenplay. Originally titled Taranga by the original director Alexander Markey, but was completed by Collins and released as Under the Southern Cross in 1929, then with the introduction of sound was given a soundtrack and retitled The Devil’s Pit in 1930. The film was shot on White Island, which has an active volcano. It is one of four films (with Down on the Farm, Hei Tiki and On the Friendly Road) which lay claim to be the first "New Zealand talkie", although dubious as the sound was added to the 1930 release in the United States. Only fragments of out-takes are left. The film probably has no connection with the 1927 British film of the same name, directed by Gustav Pauli.
Who directed Under The Southern Cross?
Under The Southern Cross was directed by Lewis D. Collins.
Who stars in Under The Southern Cross?
Under The Southern Cross stars Patiti Warbrick, Witarina Mitchell.
How long is Under The Southern Cross?
Under The Southern Cross has a runtime of 57m (57 minutes).
What genre is Under The Southern Cross?
Under The Southern Cross is a Documentary, Drama film.