The Magic Machines
Synopsis
The Magic Machines is a 1969 American short documentary film directed by Bob Curtis about kinetic artist Robert Gilbert, a young hippie sculptor who makes bright-colored, motor-driven machines from metal trash and spare parts. It won an Oscar at the 42nd Academy Awards in 1970 for Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film and was nominated for Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject.
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Release History & Theatrical Window
January 1, 1969
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Bob Curtis
- Original Title
- The Magic Machines
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 15m
- Production Studios
- Fly-By-Night Productions
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Bob Curtis
Steve Grumette
Joan Keller Stern
Department Leadership Roster
Joan Keller Stern
Producer
Steve Grumette
Editor
Bob Curtis
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Magic Machines.
Featured In Curated Collections
Editorial lists, community rankings, and cinematic collections featuring The Magic Machines.
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Festival de Cannes - Short Film Palme d'Or Winners 1947-2025
Festival de Cannes winners archive (Short Film Palme d'Or Winners 1947-2025)
Academy Awards - Best Live Action Short Film Winners 1932-2025
Academy Awards winners archive (Best Live Action Short Film Winners 1932-2025)
Academy Awards: Winners
Oscar Best Shorts Nominees
Complete list of Oscar Best Shorts Nominees
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Magic Machines
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Magic Machines about?
The Magic Machines is a 1969 American short documentary film directed by Bob Curtis about kinetic artist Robert Gilbert, a young hippie sculptor who makes bright-colored, motor-driven machines from metal trash and spare parts. It won an Oscar at the 42nd Academy Awards in 1970 for Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film and was nominated for Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject.
Who directed The Magic Machines?
The Magic Machines was directed by Bob Curtis.
Who stars in The Magic Machines?
The principal cast of The Magic Machines includes Robert Gilbert.
When was The Magic Machines released and how long is it?
The Magic Machines was released in 1969 with a total runtime of 15m.