Distribution Classics

Save Your Water Supply (2K Digital Version)

Dir: Poon Bing-kuen
Scrs: Ng Dan, Ko Tin
Prod Co: Dihua
Distribution: Lan Kwong
Cast: Wong Cho-shan, Lee Pang-fei, Lau Kwai-hong, To Sam-ku, Cheng Kwan-min
1954 | B&W | DCP | Cantonese | 95min

In the 1950s and 60s, all Hong Kong residents were constantly tormented by water shortages. A few months before the release of this film, a lack of rainfall caused the implementation of the most stringent water rationing since the War of Resistance. Water was provided only three hours every day. ‘Turn off the taps, downstairs!’ (the literal translation of the Chinese title) was heard constantly, up and down every street. Poon Bing-kuen, an expert in filming the daily lives of ordinary people, used water rationing as a theme to reflect the times. He boldly decided against using established stars as the leads, opting instead for an ensemble cast of character actors like Cheng Kwan-min, Lau Kwai-hong, Lee Pang-fei, To Sam-ku and Lam Mui-mui to interpret the situation in a tragi-comedy style, portraying the various personalities among the neighbours in conflict when fighting over water. While advising the audience to save water, the film at the same time emphasized the spirit of sharing among neighbours and friends. The film also captured precious footage of people queueing up in front of the public faucets on the street. The very popular theme song of A Bachelor’s Love Affair (1953), with new lyrics about saving water, is featured in this film. It is worth mentioning that acting student Sima Kam recommended his brother to Wong Cheuk-hon for a role in the film. The brother, Patrick Tse Yin, leapt into stardom from this film.