Mechanical Principles(1930)

Mechanical Principles Synopsis

Close up we see pistons move up and down or side to side. Pendulums sway, the small parts of machinery move. Gears drive larger wheels. Gears within gears spin. Shafts turn some mechanism that is out of sight. Screws revolve and move other gears; a bit rotates. More subtle mechanisms move other mechanical parts for unknown purposes. Weights rise and fall. The movements, underscored by sound, are rhythmic. Circles, squares, rods, and teeth are in constant and sometimes asymmetrical motion. These human-made mechanical bits seem benign and reassuring.

Mechanical Principles (1930) is a documentary film directed by Ralph Steiner, released on February 5, 1930 with a runtime of 11m. Viewers rate it 6.8 out of 10 across 22 ratings.