California Typewriter
Catalogue Number: BLUE08
Producer: Blue Ice Docs Fund Inc.
Subject: American History, Documentary, History, Media and Communications, Tech/Voc
Language: English
Grade Level: 9 - 12, Post Secondary, Adult
Country Of Origin: United States
Copyright Year: 2016
Running Time: 104:11
In this lyrical film essay, director Doug Nichol explores the mythology of the typewriter as writers, historians, and devotees—including Tom Hanks and John Mayer—celebrate its tactile power to spark creativity. Interwoven is the story of California Typewriter, one of the last repair shops dedicated to keeping these machines alive. Both nostalgic and thought‑provoking, the film reflects on a beloved technology facing extinction and the evolving relationship between humans and machines.
100% FRESH - Rotten Tomatoes
“If California Typewriter doesn’t make you cry, laugh or experience an unexpected desire to bear hug actor Tom Hanks, call the police: Someone has stolen your heart and ability to recognize genuine soulfulness.” - Lou Fancher, Oakland Tribune
