Review of The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007) by Tobias X — 13 Apr 2009

Sometimes truth is far more entertaining than fiction could ever be. When a film like King of Kong comes along, you ask "Is this really a documentary?" It's more This is Spinal Tap than Capturing the Friedmans.

The amazing thing is just how much conventional narrative is employed. There are the ups and the downs, the twists and the turns. The characters are also familiar. We have the Hero, Steve Wiebe, an everyman.

He has his kids, his wife and has lost his job. We have the Villain, Billy Mitchell, one of the biggest pricks you'll ever see. A shameless self-promoter and manipulator. He even abandons his own principles to get to the top.

Doris Self is an aging champion, looking to get her title back. Walter Day is the guy impressed with the newcomer, but loyal to the champ. We also have an old enemy of Mitchell's that now supports Wiebe and a wannabe ass kisser.

It's great story telling. As a documentary it may be a tad biased, but it's for the best for such entertainment. Had me feeling nervous, disappointed, elated and pissed off. A great experience.