Messages | My Profile | Logout

• Health
• Money
• Leisure
• Make a Difference
• Family
• Online Community
• Membership

If you report this journal as inappropriate, the moderator of the site will be notified. Report this journal?

Report   Cancel

A few weeks ago a co-worker asked a group of us if we wanted to particpate in "movie night". She brought in the documentary, King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters and we projected it onto a screen. It was a really enjoyable experience, to be in a work-setting with people who I work with day-in and day-out, and hear them laughing out loud and commenting on the movie. This simple act reminded me why going to the movies is truly more enriching than watching them at-home, all alone -- movie theaters, provide the fascinating experience of allowing yourself to fall into the film, while at the same time, being "brought back to reality" every time someone else moves, some pop corn is munched, or a stray giggle or gasp is emitted (but all this is besides the point).

 

King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters is a documentary that follows two main characters as they battle each other to become the best at Donkey Kong, the old-school video arcade game. The story focuses on two very different personalities: Billy Mitchell, the slick, dapper, almost-corporate, world-renown (in some circles) penultimate champion of the game -- and Steve Wiebe, the underdog, guy-next-door, family-man, unknown who rises to the ocassion to challenge the reigning world record holders.

 

I won’t give away too much of the movie, but I will say that the film is set up as good vs. evil, insider vs. outsider, tragicomedy that has a sweet way of pulling you in, and holding you within it’s grasp. I found myself holding onto my seat, more-so than many action/thrillers.

 

Unfortunately, this movie is no longer showing at the theater, otherwise, I would recommend you rush out and see it. But, if you are looking for a good time with the family, or friends, you will not be disappointed by this little gem.

 

Thanks Kathy for introducing me to this one.