The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters. One of the best documentaries I have seen in a long time. It's the story of a put-upon Everyman science teacher Steve Wiebe challenges the world's record in Donkey Kong, and the huge amount of nerdy drama he goes through in order to prove it. Obviously, I'm a little biased when it comes to documentaries about gaming (or more specifically, awesome mockumenatries about gaming that are currently available all over North America -- buy one today!), but King of Kong is one of the most solidly constructed films I've come across.
The world's record in Donkey Kong is held by Billy Mitchell, which is hands-down the best American film villain to come down the pike in a long time. With his shoulder-length Jesus mullet, his tritely patriotic ties and haughty demeanor, Mitchell is exactly the megalomaniac tool you'd think he'd be. The cult of personality he's built around himself as "the world's best classic video gamer" is just jaw-dropping. When Wiebe does challenge the record Mitchell established in 1982 (yes, 25 years ago), Mitchell's nerdy toadies do their best to discredit Wiebe's accomplishments, all fueling Mitchell's sizable ego. I mean, here's a taste of Mitchell here:
Oh yes. This man knows he is saying this on camera, thinking he's coming across as the God amongst the Gamer Nerds. Let's put this in perspective, shall we? It's FUCKING DONKEY KONG! It's a video game, for cry eye! Jesus, people, it's like saying I'm the best at Monopoly - who gives a shit? But that's the awesome thing about King of Kong is that these people live for this shit. I'm not one to poo-poo someone's hobby, but when I'm sitting around my living room, playing D&D, I know it's just a fun past time and I don't put anymore importance on it than that. But these guys? Oy.
King of Kong is amazingly entertaining. With Wiebe as the underdog and Mitchell as the bad guy, it's the ultimate story of one man battling against the odds. Wiebe has victories and defeats along the way, and you will be sitting at the edge of your seat, hoping Wiebe comes out triumphant. There's even an 80's-style training montage as Wiebe gears up for a big tournament. Who can argue with that?
Rent this movie. You will not be disappointed.
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