Everyone who cares one bit about the human condition (and/or video games) should do themselves a big, fat favor and go see ” The King of Kong—A Fistful of Quarters” this weekend. A locally made documentary, KoK tells the story of underdog nice-quy (and local public-school science teacher) Steve Wiebe and his quest to finally (officially) earn recognition as the national champion of Donkey Kong.

Along the way you get to boo sleazy BBQ magnate Billy Mitchell (pictured above, and the recognized DK champ since 1982) and marvel at the cadre of yes-men/game-geeks he has surrounded himself with as they fawn over his every utterance and prop up the mythos he has created for himself.

Much more than a peek into a niche subculture (you don’t have to be a video gamer to enjoy this film, but it does add a dimension of recognition) King of Kong is a passion play about fame, honor, and obsession. And it’s fucking hilarious.

Sample dialogue: “I’m gonna have 10 pieces of well-done bacon, I’m gonna have four hard-boiled eggs, I’m gonna have three pancakes, and, uh, hopefully play some great games.”

“The King of Kong” is playing at the Varsity Theater in the U-District.
Director Seth Gordon (“New York Doll”) will be in attendance for a Q&A at Sunday’s 7:00 and 9:10 shows.