You are here:

The King of Arcades

The King of Arcades

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

2014

Not Rated

Director

Sean Tiedeman

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The King of Arcades functions as a specialized cultural archive, capturing the intersection of punk rock and arcade gaming history. It embodies the spirit of a niche subculture that challenges mainstream norms through its anti-establishment themes. However, the narrative structure adheres to a conventional biographical format, focusing on the personal journey of Richie Knucklez rather than exploring broader societal issues. Consequently, the documentary lacks the necessary complexity and critical examination of social hierarchies to achieve a higher score.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The King of Arcades have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film delves into punk rock culture, known for being welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals and non-conformists. However, it does not explicitly feature LGBTQ+ characters or themes.

How does The King of Arcades portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around a single male protagonist and his business aspirations. There is no indication of a diverse cast or questioning of traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The King of Arcades?

Fair

The documentary focuses on the local history of Flemington, New Jersey. It does not explore a multi-ethnic cast or address racial diversity within this subculture.

How does The King of Arcades represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film highlights the anti-establishment sentiments in punk rock and economic struggles. It touches on the conflict between individual passion and capitalist structures without directly criticizing Western institutions.

Does The King of Arcades include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of the film portraying neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

  • Captures the unique spirit of punk rock and arcade subcultures.
  • Examines the tension between individual passion and economic shifts.
  • Offers a niche cultural archive of analog gaming history.

Limited or Absent

  • Could include more diverse gender representations.
  • Should address racial diversity within the subculture.
  • Needs to show more representation of disability or neurodivergence.

Official Synopsis

Follow the rise and fall of the King of Arcades as one man pursues his dream against all odds. The King of Arcades details the life and times of punk rock musician and classic arcade collector Richie Knucklez, on his journey to cultural prominence when he takes his passion for collecting to new heights by opening an arcade business in Flemington, New Jersey, only to watch it fall in the wake of economic hardship.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.