This must be Richard Massingham's most joyous film. It is without regret that
his narration mentions the 'old days' of bathing in as much hot water as he
liked, like his friend the elephant. Instead, a determined attitude of making do
is celebrated by turning the bathtime into a jolly routine of scrubbing and
singing. Massingham sails his boat and fires the soap into the tray with aplomb.
The wartime emphasis on the home front's contribution explains not only the
limit on hot water but also the contrast between Massingham's former leisurely
soak and his energetic embrace of rationing.
Complete film (01:18)
