The Water Cure
“The Water Cure” by Charlie Chaplin was made in 1917 in the age of the silent movies. Mr Chaplin arrives at a health spa for the water cure, suffering from what appears to be fatigue and exhaustion and we then see the antics that ensue. There are several themes to the film but the central story is about how the endearing Englishman beats off the opposition in the pursuit of the lovely lady. We see scenes that would be familiar to spa goers of the time including taking the waters, massage therapy and polite conversation. Other scenes are without doubt outside the decorum and social etiquette expected at such a resort. These include the effects of Mr Chaplins alcoholic beverages getting into the mineral water and his attempts to avoid the over enthusiastic masseur.
Sponsored by Dr. Bruce E Osborne and the Spa Research Fellowship.