Bathing Beauty (1944)

Esther Williams, Red Skelton, Basil Rathbone

Directed by George Sidney

Available to stream on Amazon Prime

Swimming star Esther Williams and comedian Red Skelton are a fun couple in this 1944 comedy of a man enrolling in a women's college.

Esther Williams in the grand finale of Bathing Beauty

Why we love it: Delightful technicolor musical with a little bit of everything: performances by Xavier Cugat, Harry James, and Helen Forrest; Red Skelton's famous comedic ballet scene; and, of course, an elaborate water pageant as the grand finale.

Esther Williams in Bathing Beauty

Fun Facts:

• Originally intended to be titled Mr. Co-ed as it highlighted Red Skelton as the main star, the film title was changed once the studio could tell that Esther was going to be a big draw.

• This was the first of Esther's many MGM movies, all featuring her unique swimming extravaganza performances. Other favorite Esther movies include Thrill of a Romance and Neptune's Daughter.

Red Skelton in Bathing Beauty

• As a teenager, Esther was a competitive swimmer, winning several national championships. She was planning to compete in the 1940 Olympics but they were cancelled because of the start of World War II.

Red Skelton and Esther Williams in a publicity photo for Bathing Beauty

For reviews and articles from the time, go the Fan Magazine Reviews page.

Featured Cocktail:

Frozen Daiquiri

The perfect summer drink, easily made in batches for drinking around the pool with friends. The recipe is exactly the same as the classic Cuban drink, with the addition of ice and a blender.

2 oz (60 ml) white rum

1 oz (30 ml) lime juice

1 Tbsp (15 ml) sugar syrup

¾ cup (180 ml) ice

Slice of lime for garnish

Add all ingredients to a blender with ice. Pulse until blended. Serve in champagne coupe or Margarita glass. Garnish with lime wheel.

Cheers to the Classics!