Influenza (1946)
A one-minute British comedy short using wit and charm to warn the public about the dangers of spreading flu through sneezing.
Influenza - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1946
- Directed by: Richard Massingham
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy
- Runtime: 1m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Production Companies: Public Relationship Films
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Influenza - Plot
Public health film, warning of the dangers of this airborne disease through sneezing.
Where to Watch Influenza
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Influenza - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Richard Massingham
Main Cast
- Richard Massingham
Producers
- Richard Massingham
Influenza - FAQs
What is Influenza (1946) about?
Influenza is a short British public health film from 1946 that uses comedy to warn viewers about the dangers of spreading flu through sneezing. It's a charming, lighthearted reminder of how easily airborne illnesses travel — and why covering your mouth actually matters.
Who directed the 1946 film Influenza?
Richard Massingham directed Influenza. He was a British filmmaker well known for producing witty public information shorts during the 1940s, often appearing in front of the camera himself. His distinctive comedic style made health and safety messages genuinely entertaining for wartime and postwar audiences.
Where can you watch Influenza (1946)?
You can find viewing options for Influenza on JustWatch, which lists all available streaming and rental platforms in your region. Given its age and status as a public health short, it may also be accessible through film archives or free online repositories.
How long is the film Influenza (1946)?
Influenza runs for just one minute, making it an exceptionally brief watch. As a public information short, it was designed to deliver its health message quickly and memorably — a punchy, comedic snapshot rather than a feature-length production.
Is Influenza (1946) a comedy or a documentary?
It's both, in a sense. Influenza is officially classified as a comedy short, but its purpose is firmly educational — warning the public about flu transmission through sneezing. Richard Massingham had a gift for blending gentle humour with serious public health messaging, and this film is a neat example of that approach.
Who produced the 1946 short film Influenza?
Richard Massingham produced Influenza through his company Public Relationship Films. He wore multiple hats on this production — directing, producing, and starring — which was typical of his hands-on approach to crafting public information films in postwar Britain.
What are some films similar to Influenza (1946)?
If you enjoy light comedies with a quirky or offbeat spirit, you might like Small Fry (2011), A Parks and Recreation Special (2020), or Babes (2024). These share a comedic sensibility, though none quite match the unique charm of a one-minute 1940s public health short.
Why is Richard Massingham significant in British film history?
Richard Massingham is celebrated as one of Britain's most inventive makers of public information films. Working through the 1940s, he turned dry health and safety subjects into genuinely funny, memorable shorts. His ability to entertain while educating made him a pioneer of the format, and Influenza is a fine example of his craft.
More About Influenza
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