I grew up in arcades. Lived for them, actually. I learned how to drive stick shift on a drag racing game, mastered the patterns of Space Invaders to become a local gaming legend (and I made quite a bit of $$ as a competitive player), and I remember going to Chicagofest, where there were literally acres of pinball machines to play between concerts. So yeah, I am thrilled that genuine arcades have made a big come-back. This doc highlights the folks who own arcade bars, and the people who love the games and the cool aura of these places. It's a niche that's growing like crazy and it's a social outlet that gets people together for fun and camaraderie. My wife Lorrisa is a principal motion capture actor in the Mortal Kombat video games, as well as DC's Injustice games. So I remain connected to the industry through passion and marriage. For those who enjoy this entertainment niche, Token Taverns is a must-see!
40 Reviews
Truly an emotional journey
jasondiorio2 May 2023
More than just the nostalgia and the games I love, there was more connection and substance than you usually get from a nerd culture documentary like this (IMHO, as a period owner of things like "Get Lamp" and "BBS: The Documentary). They also managed to give perspective on the impacts of challenging times without getting invested in political arguments, rather it was clearly about the people, their passions, and the ups and downs of their journeys. I was on that train and invested, smiling broadly and actually getting emotional at times. Bravo to everyone who worked hard to make this happen and congratulations to all those entrepreneurs. Vector, you are missed! I may be biased, but I thought it was one of the most engaging and real documentaries I've seen.
Really, really loved this!
rubygallagher-1671614 September 2023
My husband wanted to watch this documentary and at first I wasn't sure, but I'm so glad we took a chance on it. At first, it looks like it's just about arcades. But there's so much more going on here. It's about friendship and community and people coming together and BEING together in a deep, poignant way.
This is well made, with funny, compelling characters and locations that take you back to your childhood. Well, that's what it did for me, anyway.
The movie flew by and I found myself totally engrossed in the storytelling and the characters. There's one of these throwback arcades about 20 miles from us and now I feel compelled to go there. And I'm def in the mood for beer. Ha ha.
This is well made, with funny, compelling characters and locations that take you back to your childhood. Well, that's what it did for me, anyway.
The movie flew by and I found myself totally engrossed in the storytelling and the characters. There's one of these throwback arcades about 20 miles from us and now I feel compelled to go there. And I'm def in the mood for beer. Ha ha.
Gamer Life Meets Bar Life
gabriellabechtel11 December 2023
Okay, so I just got done watching "Token Taverns," and let me tell you, it's like stepping into a time machine. This documentary is like the ultimate combo of nostalgia and modern vibes. Imagine your favorite arcade game and your go-to pub had a baby - that's Token Taverns. It made me want to call up my friends and hit the nearest arcade bar ASAP.
The interviews were great. From OG gamers who practically lived in arcades to the hip bar owners making it all happen today, it felt like I was getting the inside scoop on a secret society. The documentary nailed capturing the essence of these places - from the neon lights to the beeping and blooping sounds of the games, it was like being transported to a retro-futuristic wonderland.
In the end, "Token Taverns" is like a love letter to arcade bars. It celebrates the good, acknowledges the challenges, and makes you want to be a part of the whole scene. If you're into gaming, a bit of history, and cold beers, this documentary is a must-watch.
The interviews were great. From OG gamers who practically lived in arcades to the hip bar owners making it all happen today, it felt like I was getting the inside scoop on a secret society. The documentary nailed capturing the essence of these places - from the neon lights to the beeping and blooping sounds of the games, it was like being transported to a retro-futuristic wonderland.
In the end, "Token Taverns" is like a love letter to arcade bars. It celebrates the good, acknowledges the challenges, and makes you want to be a part of the whole scene. If you're into gaming, a bit of history, and cold beers, this documentary is a must-watch.
A really fun documentary about a wonderful newer type of entertainment place - the "barcade".
crwjumper4 June 2023
What a wonderful movie documenting our generation's "Cheers". Highly recommended!
This movie documents a growing trend in family entertainment - the barcade. In a time where people have been stagnating at home playing video games and growing apart, the barcade is bringing us back together in a warm friendly place to have fun while meeting new people, The movie shows how this trend was building quickly until the Covid pandemic abruptly shut them down, threatening to close them. It demonstrates the perseverance that the owners showed and the patrons who have become extended families pull together and fight to keep them open. A must watch movie!
This movie documents a growing trend in family entertainment - the barcade. In a time where people have been stagnating at home playing video games and growing apart, the barcade is bringing us back together in a warm friendly place to have fun while meeting new people, The movie shows how this trend was building quickly until the Covid pandemic abruptly shut them down, threatening to close them. It demonstrates the perseverance that the owners showed and the patrons who have become extended families pull together and fight to keep them open. A must watch movie!
A Must See
mrose557115 September 2023
For anyone that grew up in the 80's, this is a resurgence of the arcades that we spent our childhood in, with the mixture of the adult bar scene. This is a must see for any Gen Xer that enjoys that retro feel of the old classic video games that we played as kids. Just to hear the blips and dings of the arcade machines and pinball machines brought back so many memories. This film follows several new Barcades as they encounter struggles amidst close downs during a worldwide pandemic, just as the Barcade scene is picking up. It gets very emotional at times as the barcades find new ways to stay alive. A definite watch.
Incredibly well done documentary
amyelkins-6104623 August 2023
When a documentary is made with passion it comes through on screen and Token Taverns did not disappoint. You could feel the love for the games and the community surrounding them. From the conception of "barcades", to facing the hardships of Covid, then finally the comeback....you are lead through the journey of what makes these modern-day arcades so appealing and why we love them so much. The games and bars are the highlights to the storyline but in honesty it's more about the people that make up this wonderful band of nerds/geeks/misfits. The support the community gave to each other, especially during Covid, is testament games do bring people together. And Bob caught some of the best of those moments. I highly recommend this movie, not just to gamers but to anyone that wants to see how a community can overcome anything....one game at a time. *Thank you, Bob, for an amazing trip down memory lane and for introducing us "pinheads" to the world.
Passion, People, Pandemic, History.
laroos-715713 May 2023
This documentary is unlike any other. Due to its insight on how life was right before the pandemic, during and after. It shows us the real, raw reality that business owners faced during that time...And how much of the community truly was there to back them up.
From pin ball tournaments to beers to go- To open mic nights.... smiles and tears, The passion was there to keep it going, and give the community a place to hang their masks and socialize, doing what they loved for an hour or two. Even if it was 6 ft away from each other.
Token Taverns takes us back to the 1980s and all the nostalgia that comes along with it!
This documentary is very emotional, as it reminds us that the past is not too far behind us, and just how important these bar arcades are to a certain group of people during a time when everyone was told to cover their face and stay inside.
Thank you Bob, for reminding us of all the things we have to be grateful for.. From Open mics, to a game of pacman with our friends.
This is a must see documentary! Thank you for the beautiful ride!
From pin ball tournaments to beers to go- To open mic nights.... smiles and tears, The passion was there to keep it going, and give the community a place to hang their masks and socialize, doing what they loved for an hour or two. Even if it was 6 ft away from each other.
Token Taverns takes us back to the 1980s and all the nostalgia that comes along with it!
This documentary is very emotional, as it reminds us that the past is not too far behind us, and just how important these bar arcades are to a certain group of people during a time when everyone was told to cover their face and stay inside.
Thank you Bob, for reminding us of all the things we have to be grateful for.. From Open mics, to a game of pacman with our friends.
This is a must see documentary! Thank you for the beautiful ride!
How an Arcade Community Rose Up Against a Pandemic
robertworkman11 December 2023
Rose does an excellent job providing a human face to these businesses, as the owners look like someone that could easily live right next door to you. They relate with business expenses and new ideas, and even show emotion when something unexpected happens (like Stormy Daniels popping through the door - honestly, she'd probably be fun to play X-Men with).
That's part of the appeal - realizing that these guys are part of the community instead of just pandering down to it. Token Taverns shows this side in just the right ways, from selecting games for the bar (you have to have the Godzilla pinball, come on) and design to how they react to their customers. They're happy to be here, and doing everything they can for their beloved communities.
I think Token Taverns is well worth a watch if you're in the mood of a story of triumph. These guys went through a world of hell with everything the pandemic threw at them, and the journey is well worth watching. Plus you get an idea of what makes a "barcade" tick, so this is worth the research if that's what you're in the market for. (Anyone want to partner up?)
That's part of the appeal - realizing that these guys are part of the community instead of just pandering down to it. Token Taverns shows this side in just the right ways, from selecting games for the bar (you have to have the Godzilla pinball, come on) and design to how they react to their customers. They're happy to be here, and doing everything they can for their beloved communities.
I think Token Taverns is well worth a watch if you're in the mood of a story of triumph. These guys went through a world of hell with everything the pandemic threw at them, and the journey is well worth watching. Plus you get an idea of what makes a "barcade" tick, so this is worth the research if that's what you're in the market for. (Anyone want to partner up?)
Great Indie Doc About Arcade Gamers
JeromeV7963127 April 2024
This feature doc focuses on the rebirth of arcade bars -- pinball, Space Invaders, Packman, and more. In this comprehensive doc, you will learn about legends Billy Mitchell, champion gamer, and the remarkable community of arcade players who decide to come together as a community to share their mutual love for games. This well-made doc focuses on the resurgence of the gaming community as a communal experience. Vector, Reboot, Glitch, and Lowry Parcade are just a few of the arcade bars featured. We learn about their struggles, from inception, through Covid lockdown nightmares, and to the aftermath which includes Comicon. I love when I learn something new from a documentary. I am not a gamer myself, but appreciate the passion of folks who are. Check this out - you will not be disappointed.
Watch this then go out for a drink
ath062921 November 2023
In a time when we have become more and more isolated. "Token Taverns" reminds us why we should go out and socialize. Nowadays, we stay home and play video games in our rooms, but this movie shows that video games can be social in the right environment. This film follows 3 bar owners with a passion for craft brews and video games.
This informative documentary shares how these bars got started and follows their challenges through the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a feeling of camaraderie with owners and patrons as they celebrate the good times and adapt to the bad. They show this support through their love and passion for old-school video games and pinball as they teach the younger generation tips and tricks for console video games.
Now I'm off to see if I can find any local arcade bars.
This informative documentary shares how these bars got started and follows their challenges through the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a feeling of camaraderie with owners and patrons as they celebrate the good times and adapt to the bad. They show this support through their love and passion for old-school video games and pinball as they teach the younger generation tips and tricks for console video games.
Now I'm off to see if I can find any local arcade bars.
Great Games
kjs114418 November 2023
Token Taverns is an absolutely fascinating documentary which centers on the world of arcade games and its resurgence. It also gives a look at the struggle that these arcade business owners faced during the Covid lockdowns. It is definitely a love letter to arcade games in general, as well as the community that comes together in their shared love for these timeless games. I thought the camera work was excellent throughout, it was very smooth and steady, even though I'm guessing much of it was handheld. The direction and the editing of this film really makes you become invested in the stories. If you love arcade games, this is a must watch.
A nostalgic journey of the trials of video game taverns
Bsheffer3 August 2023
Warning: Spoilers
From beginning to end (in some cases) we see honest portrayals of the challenges and victories of small business owners who center their bars around pinball and video game entertainment.
The video and sound are very good, even in the noisy and glaring environment of a pinball tavern.
Of note is how they and other entertainment businesses were affected by Covid 19 and the regulations that were passed. Their clever solutions to mitigate not being able to open to customers was particularly insightful.
If you are a fan of pinball or video game consoles and wish there were more businesses that centered around them, you will be touched by this documentary.
The video and sound are very good, even in the noisy and glaring environment of a pinball tavern.
Of note is how they and other entertainment businesses were affected by Covid 19 and the regulations that were passed. Their clever solutions to mitigate not being able to open to customers was particularly insightful.
If you are a fan of pinball or video game consoles and wish there were more businesses that centered around them, you will be touched by this documentary.
For the love of the game...
jasonspriggs23 September 2023
In his third feature documentary Writer/Director Bob Rose and his producing partner, wife Margie Rose, take us on a journey of entrepreneurial innovation, nostalgia and the human spirit.
If all you know of video games is your iPhone, or X-Box and Playstation on your big screen at home, the filmmakers of TOKEN TAVERNS bring us up to speed on the cultural phenomenon and far more social landscape of the console arcade video video game obsession from the 1980s. The film documents a cast of, now grown up gamers, who never let go of that passion. Now, with far more than a few quarters in their pocket, these entrepreneurs distill the culture of bars and video arcades into a new pastime for communities across the country. Build it and clearly they will come.
With a few cameos from video game celebrities of the day, the storyline boldly adapts its production narrative to the real world of the Covid global shut down and pivots its story to address the personal stakes of several of these business owners trying to make ends meet in a fiscal wasteland of business ownership during a global pandemic. As the subjects of the film innovatively bob and weave to survive the pandemic, Rose expertly tacs narratively to feature this storyline rather than put the production on hold until the crisis would resolve.
The result is an informative, exciting and emotional journey of several families doing everything they can to save their dreams. For the love of the game.
If all you know of video games is your iPhone, or X-Box and Playstation on your big screen at home, the filmmakers of TOKEN TAVERNS bring us up to speed on the cultural phenomenon and far more social landscape of the console arcade video video game obsession from the 1980s. The film documents a cast of, now grown up gamers, who never let go of that passion. Now, with far more than a few quarters in their pocket, these entrepreneurs distill the culture of bars and video arcades into a new pastime for communities across the country. Build it and clearly they will come.
With a few cameos from video game celebrities of the day, the storyline boldly adapts its production narrative to the real world of the Covid global shut down and pivots its story to address the personal stakes of several of these business owners trying to make ends meet in a fiscal wasteland of business ownership during a global pandemic. As the subjects of the film innovatively bob and weave to survive the pandemic, Rose expertly tacs narratively to feature this storyline rather than put the production on hold until the crisis would resolve.
The result is an informative, exciting and emotional journey of several families doing everything they can to save their dreams. For the love of the game.
Interesting look at gaming
alecybarra30 April 2024
This film is a unique and interesting look at a little-known niche: gaming and taverns. It is not only a look at the "day in the life", but it goes a lot further to explain the time period of how it all unfolded, especially during Covid. One of the interviews captured it well: "Arcades are a new meeting ground for people. It's something that brings people together". On a deeper level, this is really a film about how social connection and finding one's clique can happen in the context of everyday life. You don't need to go to some special, hard to find place. As these arcades within taverns become more widespread, it will be easier for people to be connected and happy.
great documentary
mich1elle19 November 2023
Token Taverns is a fantastic nostalgic time.
This documentary follows four arcades and their day to day business life. Writer and director Bob Rose does a great job intertwining all the different arcades and formulating a captivating story. I felt myself getting investing in each of their individual stories
I enjoyed hearing the different and creative ways the arcades did to survive and serve their customer during the Covid shutdowns.
I liked how he showed the community and camaraderie that exists when you are apart of a group like this.
Great job done by everyone involved in making this..
This documentary follows four arcades and their day to day business life. Writer and director Bob Rose does a great job intertwining all the different arcades and formulating a captivating story. I felt myself getting investing in each of their individual stories
I enjoyed hearing the different and creative ways the arcades did to survive and serve their customer during the Covid shutdowns.
I liked how he showed the community and camaraderie that exists when you are apart of a group like this.
Great job done by everyone involved in making this..
The definitive film for a generation of gamers who never outgrew the hobby!
jonimusdialdrive2 May 2023
The Film follows 4 Arcade bar owners and their different circumstances behind opening their individual businesses. However, the true genius is how well Bob is able to weave a tale about never growing up out of playing video games while maintaining a compelling narrative showing how each Bar attempts to survive the films true antagonist, The Covid Pandemic that began in 2020. The film spotlights some of the industries most important figures to rally behind the same message. Arcade Bars are here, and they're here to stay! Bob wisely chose unique individuals to follow in the film and it makes for an absolutely entertaining watch. Would recommend to anyone!
Fantastic movie that captures the soul of the community
jdmunozcalene2 May 2023
Token taverns is a movie about several Arcade Bars composed a community that transends barriers such as staff, customer, and rival business. This movie beautifully captures the shared love amongst a diverse group of people for a comfortable environment composed of old school/ modern arcade games, craft beer, and great company.
I had the opportunity to work as a bartender for Vector Bar and Arcade during the course of the filming of this movie. Although filmed a few years ago, watching this movie resurfaced emotions I had experienced then as if I was undergoing those experiences today. I was overcome with happiness and joy when seeing familiar customers and staff members on the screen, and sadness when reliving through viewing what the community had to go through during the Covid-19 lockdowns and how they had to adapt after immense suffering.
This movie is very special. All of the ingredients that were put into the couldren used to cook this product were treated with the highest of care and respect that you would expect from a master chef. The result: A very fun, heartwarming, movie that pays homage towards the community in the best way possible.
It's clear that "Token Taverns" is a movie that truly captures the essence of the arcade bar community. If you're looking for a fun movie that pays tribute to this unique community, then "Token Taverns" is definitely a viewing you won't regret!
I had the opportunity to work as a bartender for Vector Bar and Arcade during the course of the filming of this movie. Although filmed a few years ago, watching this movie resurfaced emotions I had experienced then as if I was undergoing those experiences today. I was overcome with happiness and joy when seeing familiar customers and staff members on the screen, and sadness when reliving through viewing what the community had to go through during the Covid-19 lockdowns and how they had to adapt after immense suffering.
This movie is very special. All of the ingredients that were put into the couldren used to cook this product were treated with the highest of care and respect that you would expect from a master chef. The result: A very fun, heartwarming, movie that pays homage towards the community in the best way possible.
It's clear that "Token Taverns" is a movie that truly captures the essence of the arcade bar community. If you're looking for a fun movie that pays tribute to this unique community, then "Token Taverns" is definitely a viewing you won't regret!
It's not just a throwback for the OGs!
joecurry-6148119 November 2023
Bob Rose deserves props for bringing this era back to life. The doc hits home for arcade veterans, but it's not just for us old-timers-it's a gripping watch for anyone keen on the '80s vibe. The interviews? Engaging as all get-out, giving you the real deal straight from the players. The camera work? Smooth, capturing the arcade buzz, and the editing? Flawless.
In a world where indie documentaries sometimes miss the mark, "Token Taverns" shines bright. It's not just a throwback for the OGs; it's a deep dive into '80s society. Bob Rose's work is a classy salute to a rad era, making it a real good time for anyone watching, whether for the memories or the history lesson.
In a world where indie documentaries sometimes miss the mark, "Token Taverns" shines bright. It's not just a throwback for the OGs; it's a deep dive into '80s society. Bob Rose's work is a classy salute to a rad era, making it a real good time for anyone watching, whether for the memories or the history lesson.
Great job on digging in to the barcade movement
djcfuzz5 June 2023
I had the opportunity to see this movie over the weekend. It focuses on some of the barcades in Florida.
This documentary is well done. An interesting story of three barcades in particular: Lowry Parcade, Reboot & Vector. A good deal of interviews with each owner and their own approach to establishing a barcade.
Interviews with several key arcade folks: Billy Mitchell, Walter Day, Tim Kitzrow. A cameo by Stormy Daniels.
Some very good perspectives given on the whole barcade scene. Interviews with many patrons establish a solid foundation for the community of barcades.
I don't want to spoil any of the fun. If you get a chance, give it a watch.
This documentary is well done. An interesting story of three barcades in particular: Lowry Parcade, Reboot & Vector. A good deal of interviews with each owner and their own approach to establishing a barcade.
Interviews with several key arcade folks: Billy Mitchell, Walter Day, Tim Kitzrow. A cameo by Stormy Daniels.
Some very good perspectives given on the whole barcade scene. Interviews with many patrons establish a solid foundation for the community of barcades.
I don't want to spoil any of the fun. If you get a chance, give it a watch.
Token Taverns brings the 80's back to life.
mettlesetdesigner11 November 2023
I grew up in the 80's hanging out in the local video arcade The Black Hole and Cactus Jacks. It's where I became the queen of Centipede, Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga and Tron. The documentary "Token Taverns" is a wonderful doc that not only brings back great memories for those of us that lived it! It is also a great watch for anyone that is interested in the 1980's and society. Filmmaker Bob Rose did a wonderful job making this documentary. The interviews are engaging, the camera work is great, and a wonderful job was done in the editing. So many indie docs are poorly done and hardly watchable. "Token Taverns" is a must watch.
"Token Taverns" is a captivating documentary
fredunderland12 November 2023
"Token Taverns" is a captivating documentary that takes a nostalgic journey back to the 1980s, a time when local video arcades were the epicenters of social life. As someone who spent their formative years in these gaming havens, watching this documentary was a delightful trip down memory lane. However I must premise this with the fact that this documentary was produced in 2020 and does spend a great deal of time discussing the pandemic which is not as interesting as the topic of video arcades themselves.
The documentary not only resonates with those who lived through the arcade culture but also offers a compelling viewing experience for anyone interested in the social fabric of the 1980s. The interviews are engaging, providing firsthand accounts that enrich the narrative. The camera work is skillful, capturing the essence of the arcade experience, and the editing is seamlessly executed. I only wish more time was spent on the social impacts the video arcades had in the 1980s and less time on how the pandemic of 2020 impacted today's retro arcades.
The documentary not only resonates with those who lived through the arcade culture but also offers a compelling viewing experience for anyone interested in the social fabric of the 1980s. The interviews are engaging, providing firsthand accounts that enrich the narrative. The camera work is skillful, capturing the essence of the arcade experience, and the editing is seamlessly executed. I only wish more time was spent on the social impacts the video arcades had in the 1980s and less time on how the pandemic of 2020 impacted today's retro arcades.
An Awesome documentary about Barcades. A must watch!
stevewtf-0371122 August 2023
This is hands down one of the best documentaries I've seen for this genre of pop/gamer culture. The documentary brings you back to a simpler time. As mentioned in other reviews the Director gives an amazing perspective on the highs and lows of the featured barcades during an unprecendented time. You can really feel the passion and energy behind everyones input throughout the film. Being part of this community directly had me emotional througout. Even if I wasn't part of this scene I still would have been emotional lol. I am so glad I was able to see the premier on the big screen! Congrats to everyone involved in making this film come to life. A must watch!
A Boozy Journey Through the Resurgence of Arcades
functionalfitnessmovie29 April 2024
"Token Taverns" is a captivating documentary that offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane while shedding light on the resurgence of arcade bars in the modern era. Directed with flair and passion, this film provides an insightful and entertaining look into the world of arcade bars and the communities they foster.
What sets "Token Taverns" apart is its celebration of nostalgia and community. For many, arcade bars are more than just places to play games-they're gathering spots where friendships are forged, memories are made, and joy is shared. The documentary beautifully captures the sense of camaraderie and belonging that permeates these establishments, making them akin to modern-day Cheers for nerds.
In conclusion, "Token Taverns" is a must-watch documentary for anyone who appreciates the magic of arcade games and the sense of community that arcade bars cultivate. Cheers to "Token Taverns" and the enduring legacy of arcade culture!
What sets "Token Taverns" apart is its celebration of nostalgia and community. For many, arcade bars are more than just places to play games-they're gathering spots where friendships are forged, memories are made, and joy is shared. The documentary beautifully captures the sense of camaraderie and belonging that permeates these establishments, making them akin to modern-day Cheers for nerds.
In conclusion, "Token Taverns" is a must-watch documentary for anyone who appreciates the magic of arcade games and the sense of community that arcade bars cultivate. Cheers to "Token Taverns" and the enduring legacy of arcade culture!
Arcade Games and Beer
photo-859-40163112 November 2023
If you remember spending your wayward youths in video game arcades dropping quarters into PacMan, Donkey Kong, and Galaga, you'll appreciate this documentary on arcade bars. Combining the nostalgia for pinball machines and arcade video games, bars are popping up that offer these games plus the congenial atmosphere of bars. The direction and editing is fast-paced, just like video games, and personable arcade bar owners and patrons describe why they love the friendly feel of these places. The big antagonist in this story is the pandemic restrictions on communal spaces. I wish there was more time spent on the games themselves and why the patrons enjoy them but the overall sense is that these places become popular because they make the video game experience back into something communal, to share in person with friends.
See also
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