The Automat

THE AUTOMAT takes viewers back to the very beginning, sharing how Joseph Horn and Frank Hardart teamed to create the eateries so many of us love, though they no longer exist. Hurwitz spoke to family members, former employees, historians, authors and a few celebs -- Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Eliot Gould, Colin Powell -- about their Automat memories, and the result is a joyful yet unavoidably elegiac film that is simply a must-see for anyone with an interest in these bygone gems.

I expected this film to be good -- I was counting on it. And it lived up to and exceeded all hopes and expectations.

A business that took care of its employees, respected its customers and where everyone was everyone else. If you had a nickel, you mattered just as much as the person next to you. And apparently, the food was awfully good. I sit pondering the land of lunacy, stupidity and ignorance this always flawed but once reasonably bright, reasonably optimistic country that I grew up in,served and loved, has become,I can only cry,smile and laugh, and cry some more as I watched this wonderful film. Watching and hearing the shared joy and hope of those who graced it,I am glad they were able to eat the pie and drink the coffee and now have had the chance to remember it so fondly.

THE AUTOMATIC is a masterpiece. A deeply thoughtful return to a by-gone era. Director Lisa Hurwitz brings us emotionally and intimately into the people, the sites, the smells, the tastes of this important slice of American history. The film takes you back to what it felt like to experience the community and culture of these iconic restaurants. The film is incredibly insightful, funny, tender, full of nostalgia and joy. This is a rare documentary that genuinely makes you feel good. The perfect film to see with friends and family and then have a slice of pie and talk about it. I cannot wait to see this film again.

Seventy-nine minutes of pure delight!! Whether you experienced the wonder and deliciousness of the Automat, you've merely heard stories from family or you're hearing about the Automat for the very first time....don't miss treating yourself to this wonderful film about a genius food business - Horn and Hardart - that fed the needs of many above and beyond the food itself. First time director, Lisa Hurwitz, gives us a story that's entertaining, engaging and unforgettable. You'll love it!!

Watching this lovely documentary brought back such wonderful memories of my early childhood and as a young man. It was a thrill for my grandparents and in later years my parents to take me to the Automat. We lived in Manhattan so we always went to the 42nd & 3rd avenue location. It was a delicious and unforgettable experience for little money and at times met friends there as well. The interviews with Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Ruth Badger Ginsberg, and Colin Powell, all sharing their favorite Automat memories make for delightful viewing. This documentary was made with love as was the food the Automat served.