DVD Corner

Token Taverns Blu-ray Review

“Token Taverns” is a rewarding documentary.  

Directed by Bob Rose, “Token Taverns” is a documentary film about the current arcade bar scene. The arcade glory days of the 80’s and 90’s may be over once video game consoles took over, but arcades have made a comeback albeit more for the nostalgic adult crowd who enjoy adult beverages (and especially craft beer). Through interviews with the likes of Billy Mitchell, Walter Day, Stormy Daniels, Daniel Pesina (Mortal Kombat actor), arcade owners, arcade customers, and voice actor Tim Kitzrow, Bob Rose takes the viewer inside 4 Florida arcade bars (Glitch, Reboot, Vector and Lowry Parcade) in the year 2020. Yes, more bar arcades are shown, but these 4 are heavily featured and make up the narrative story. Given that this documentary was filmed in 2020 and 2021, the documentary does indeed also cover the pandemic and its effect on the businesses along with the Free Play Florida convention. 

As a lifelong gamer, “Token Taverns” was definitely in my wheelhouse. In many ways it’s a sort of companion piece to “The King Of Kong: Fistful Of Quarters” and not JUST because Billy Mitchell and Walter Day appear in it. Niche as though it may be, ‘Taverns’ does a commendable job spotlighting the ever growing arcade bar scene. It’s much more than just a place to drink and play pinball (which is its own subculture), console games, and arcade classics like NBA Jam and Pac-Man, it’s also a social hot spot that becomes embedded in the community. It’s not uncommon to see other events take place at these businesses such as concerts, DJ events, gaming events, and, yes, even wrestling. 

Through Rose’s storytelling, you really get to know the 4 above listed arcade bars and their owners Mike Burke, Dwight Slamp, Robert Leonard and George and Helen Courtney. Each owner has his or her own vision, ideas, and concept to make their business a special place that will hopefully endure through thick and thin. It might not always work, but seeing the dedication, hustle, and passion to create a place for people to connect deserves applause. 

If the documentary has any downsides it’s that it feels like it could have been trimmed several minutes due to the repeated material and the numerous false endings that rival “Lord Of The Rings: Return Of The King,” ‘Taverns’ also bears a strong resemblance to the documentary series “A Toy Store Near You” which started out spotlighting toy stores that were trying to stay in business during COVID-19. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: Widescreen 1080p. Grade: B+

Audio Track: Dolby Surround 2.0. Grade: B

Extras include a trailer, commentary by Bob Rose and Retro Ralph and “Token Taverns Roadshow: A Behind The Scenes Look At The Summer Movie Tour” (a near 10 minute collection of footage from screening events). 

January 9, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Arcade Bar, Arcades, documentary, Token Taverns, Token Taverns Blu-ray Review