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.

Watching this exquisite documentary is such a joyful experience! It's as delicious and unforgettable as an exquisite meal with your favorite friend. The interviews with Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Ruth Badger Ginsberg and Colin Powell, all sharing their favorite Automatic memories make fir delightful company. Made with love and great talent, one will want to revisit this gem often!

THE AUTOMAT (2022) **** Documentarian Lisa Hurwitz looks back at an American institution, the automat - a self-service cafeteria in Philadelphia and NYC, that congregated the masses for its simple function of providing good food for literally nickels. Nostalgic pure and loving with famous folk like Colin Powell, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Elliott Gould, Carl Reiner, and the film's heart and soul, the irrepressible Mel Brooks, all recounting personal memories of attending the establishment in heartfelt detail. Makes you wish you could go back in time to enjoy life's simple pleasures.