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There's more drama in this small
documentary than in most serious Oscar contenders. A marriage is on the
line, integrity is tested, and friendships falter--all in the name of a
video game called DONKEY KONG. THE KING OF KONG may inspire both tears
and frustrated sighs, but it's most remarkable for its humor. In the
same vein as WORDPLAY and SPELLBOUND, this is a hilarious documentary
that enlightens as it entertains. Billy Mitchell is a towering figure in
the world of classic video games such as DONKEY KONG and PAC-MAN. He
has held records in several games, and his high score in DONKEY KONG
(considered the toughest of the old titans) has been unbeaten for
decades. But newcomer Steve Wiebe finds purpose in the game after losing
his job, and discovers his natural aptitude at the game. The amiable
Steve is just as likely to win the "nice guy of the year" award as he is
to best Billy's record, and this film casts him as a classic hero that
viewers love to root for.While Steve is an audience favorite, Billy is a
Machiavellian mastermind that rivals any villain from a narrative film.
Even though some might argue that the Super Bowl or NCAA tournament is
more important, the competition in THE KING OF KONG rivals the most
exciting in sports. Thanks to the film's wonderful characters, it's easy
to get involved in the drama. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction,
and the people who populate THE KING OF KONG are as fascinating as any
screenwriter's creation.