The best documentaries open up a world that didn't exist to you before you watched. The King of Kong did exactly that for me. I had no idea there was a group of people who religously guarded the their records--for the highest score on the video game Donkey Kong. What's even more fascinating is how driven these people are! Our hero, Steve Wiebe, is the Rocky Balboa to Billy Mitchell's Apollo Creed. (The Rocky theme music even makes an appearance during a key scene.) The filmmakers carefully follow the obsession of these professional gamers. What will they do to prove themselves? Are they above manipulation and deceit to keep their reputation? It makes for riveting drama.
My one complaint is that after watching the movie, I did a little bit of googling to find out more about the subjects. Apparently, the filmmakers may have left out key details and interactions to amp up the tension (and to present a certain angle) in the movie. This isn't necessary and is disingenuous to the viewer. Regardless, this documentary is compelling.
My one complaint is that after watching the movie, I did a little bit of googling to find out more about the subjects. Apparently, the filmmakers may have left out key details and interactions to amp up the tension (and to present a certain angle) in the movie. This isn't necessary and is disingenuous to the viewer. Regardless, this documentary is compelling.