GM Research Unveiled: 1935

This circa 1935 General Motors Research Laboratories film, Research Work, blends black-and-white footage with sound narration in a multi-segment showcase of automotive innovation. John B. Kennedy’s “Back to the days…” traces engine knocking’s end via Ethyl lead, as a 1930s Chevrolet time-travels to 1922, syncing knocks to a visible soundtrack. Lowell Thomas’ “This thing called temperature…” reverses ice melting into cubes and splits a fanning man as a thermometer drops from 80°F to -10°F. John S. Young’s “Science removes jitters…” smooths a bumpy ride, while Kennedy’s “Looking for trouble…” tours proving grounds. Edwin C. Hill’s “The most important part…” animates drivers and modernizing cars amid assembly lines and Detroit’s GM headquarters, celebrating human ingenuity in pre-war industry.