Easy To Love

There aren’t many stars for whom building a custom 90 x 90ft swimming pool would be reasonable, but that’s exactly what MGM did for competitive swimmer-turned actor Esther Williams in the early 40s, and with it, they heralded the start of the ‘aquamusical’. Easy to Love is one of the genre’s finest, with Williams on exquisitely sassy form, playing the role of an aquacade performer caught up in a love triangle with her colleagues. What ensues is a humorous romp through Cypress Gardens, Florida, featuring some incredible show-stopping song and dance [and swim] numbers choreographed by Busby Berkeley.

Now perhaps the ideal location to screen this film would be an open air lido, but it being December n’all, we thought a covered swimming pool might be more appropriate. Moseley Road baths, however, is no ordinary pool. Opened in 1907, it is one the country’s last remaining working Edwardian baths.

Prior to the screening, the City of Birmingham Synchronised Swimming Club will give a short performance.

Please note, this event is for ages 14+, and there will be a photographer taking pictures - so feel free to don your best '40's aquamusical' inspired swimwear for the occasion.

Screening as part of BFI Musicals! The Greatest Show on Screen, a UK-wide film season supported by National Lottery, BFI Film Audience Network and ICO. bfimusicals.co.uk #bfimusicals