Motor Maniacs 1946
Dive into the hilarious chaos of *Motor Maniacs* (1946), a vintage comedy short directed by Wallace Grissell that packs a punch in just 18 minutes.
Director: Wallace Grissell
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is Motor Maniacs (1946) about?
*Motor Maniacs* follows Edgar Kennedy's character as he gets tangled in a high-stakes bet involving a seemingly magical outboard motor that runs on a single cup of gas. Complications arise when a wealthy suitor (Tom Kennedy) agrees to finance the invention—if it passes a lake test—as Edgar's family scrambles to keep up with the absurd demands and a string of comedic mishaps.
Who directed Motor Maniacs?
Wallace Grissell directed *Motor Maniacs* (1946), bringing his knack for snappy comedies and visual gags to this short film.
Who stars in Motor Maniacs?
The film stars Edgar Kennedy, Florence Lake, Jack Rice, Dot Farley, and Tom Kennedy in a cast perfectly suited for its fast-paced, family-driven comedy.
Is Motor Maniacs (1946) worth watching?
With its relentless pacing and classic comedy charm, *Motor Maniacs* is a hidden gem for fans of vintage humor. Though it's unrated, its 18-minute runtime and timeless slapstick appeal make it a fun, low-commitment watch—ideal for a quick laugh or a nostalgic trip to 1940s Hollywood.
How long is Motor Maniacs?
*Motor Maniacs* runs for 18 minutes, making it a perfect bite-sized comedy that fits neatly into any viewing schedule.
About Motor Maniacs (1946) — 18-Minute Comedy Chaos Starring Edgar Kennedy
Dive into the hilarious chaos of *Motor Maniacs* (1946), a vintage comedy short directed by Wallace Grissell that packs a punch in just 18 minutes. Starring Edgar Kennedy, Florence Lake, and Tom Kennedy, this film thrives on zany family drama and absurd inventions, blending slapstick humor with a touch of old-Hollywood charm. When a scheming suitor promises to finance a revolutionary, gas-sipping outboard motor—if it passes a test—Edgar and his eccentric relatives find themselves in a race against time (and Murphy's Law) to prove the contraption works. With Dot Farley as the meddling mother-in-law and Jack Rice as the overly optimistic brother-in-law, the stage is set for a whirlwind of mishaps, miscommunications, and motorized mayhem.
At its heart, *Motor Maniacs* is a playful ode to 1940s comedy tropes: the underdog's struggle, the power of sheer luck (or lack thereof), and the timeless joy of watching plans derail in the most spectacular ways. The film's breezy runtime and rapid-fire gags make it a delightful time capsule of early cinematic humor, where even a cup of gas becomes the star of the show. Whether you're a fan of classic comedies or just love a good, old-fashioned farce, this short promises laughs without the guilt of a bloated runtime.