The King of Kong – A Fistful of Quarters
There have been many epic sporting rivalries in history but none so hotly contested as that of Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe. In the world of competitive computer gaming, their quest for the highest score would be everything. The battlefield of choice would be the stand-up arcade classic Donkey Kong. Being one of the most successful arcade game ever, its besting held a particular lure for classic gamers. By flipping and jumping, each contestant tries to rescue a pixelated princess from the clutches of an angry ape. And with most games only lasting seconds, the gameplay is as merciless and unforgiving as the ape in question.
… Be-mullet-ed and mantra-fuelled, Billy cuts an imposing figure as he lords it over the high score tables…
In this arena, a self-styled games champion rules supreme: Billy Mitchell. Be-mullet-ed and mantra-fuelled, Billy cuts an imposing figure as he lords it over the high score tables, whilst bathing in a seemingly unassailable reputation. However, from an unassuming garage in Washington, a humble David emerges with a score that will fell the king and so ensue a bizarre rivalry that will ensnare the two for years to come…
As a charming, yet incisive documentary, ‘The King of Kong – A Fistful of Quarters’ reigns supreme. With a clear affection for its subject, it slowly draws you in with each coin drop. Focusing in on a rich cast of characters and oddball side-players, the intrigue is as compelling as it is heartfelt. As with recent documentaries like ’Senna’ or ‘Indy Game’ you don’t need to like motor racing or computer gaming to be swept up in this tale.
‘The King of Kong – A Fistful of Quarters’ is all about the people and what they will (and won’t do) in their quest for the highest score of all time. So if you’re looking to be entertained and charmed by richly-coloured characters gripped by all-consuming mania, then this gentle platform celebration is for you.
Mark Esper
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