The Automat

In the early 1900s, restaurateurs Joseph Horn and Frank Hardart imported German coin-operated vending machinery that allowed patrons to retrieve their own mains, sides, and desserts. In its heyday, their chain--despite being limited to NYC and Philly--was America's most prosperous. This affectionate look at Horn & Hardart considers its origins, boom period, and ultimate waning due to fast food's emergence, with testimony from fans including Mel Brooks, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Colin Powell, more. 79 min. Widescreen; Soundtrack: English; Subtitles: English; audio commentary; featurette; theatrical trailer.