Special When Lit

Special When Lit is a 2009 entertaining and thought-provoking documentary film which offers an engrossing exploration of the fascinating world of pinball. The movie features some of the biggest pinball aficionados such as Roger Sharpe, Rick Stetta, and Sam Harvey who genuinely love the game and have dedicated a substantial portion of their lives to playing, collecting, or analyzing the inner workings of pinballs. Directed by Brett Sullivan, Special When Lit captures the rich history, the rise, fall, and revival of pinball through the eyes of different enthusiasts, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.

The film takes viewers on a retro ride through the vibrant and electrifying universe of pinball, a game that was once dismissed as a mildly amusing pastime but grew to be a huge cultural phenomenon that mirrored the American dream in its peak. Back in the day, pinball machines were a familiar sight in game arcitories, pool halls, bars, and various other public spaces across America. However, with the advent of video games, the popularity of pinball machines began to wane. The film documents this journey in an insightful way, underlining the nostalgia and romance associated with pinball culture.

The breakthrough moments in Special When Lit offer an enthralling look into the lives of yesteryears' pinball champions like Roger Sharpe and Rick Stetta. Sharpe is often credited with legitimizing pinball in the 1970s, playing a key role in convincing the authorities that it was not a game of chance but required skill, thus lifting the ban on it in many cities. On the other hand, Stetta, one of the greatest players in the history of the game, recounts his experiences of participating in various pinball competitions, and how he remains attached to the game in spite of its declining popularity.

These personal narratives are interspersed with the accounts of operators, designers, and collectors like Sam Harvey, a renowned pinball historian, and others whose lives have been profoundly affected by this game. They help piece together the jigsaw puzzle of what made pinball special and why it still manages to entice a loyal set of enthusiasts. Charting the evolution, cultural impact, technological advancements, and the competitive scene of pinball, the film also explores the unique features that earned pinball its iconic status while considering what the future might hold.

The film also exemplifies the intense rivalry which existed during the golden age of pinball between the two industry titans, Williams and Bally. Here, deep-seated competition was instrumental in driving innovation, shaping the pinball machines of that era. Intricate designs, complex mechanisms, vivid graphics, and exciting themes became the hallmark that differentiated this era of the game.

Special When Lit also offers a window into the world of extremes, where some enthusiasts curate grand collections of vintage pinball machines, restoring them to their past glory. At the same time, others take this vintage game to the digital platforms, thereby providing a new lease of life in the modern era with younger audiences.

Despite exploring the comprehensive history and the idiosyncratic subculture of pinball, Special When Lit manages to remain accessible to the uninitiated. It’s not just about buttons, bumpers, and flippers, but it's the compelling human stories behind them that take center stage. For instance, from the friendships formed around this game, the countless hours spent perfecting strategies, to the close-knit community of pinball lovers that reckons with nostalgia as much as it does with competition.

In conclusion, Special When Lit is a captivating journey through the extraordinary world of pinball. Through its engaging narrative and a series of exclusive interviews, the film captures the heart and soul of the game that once enthralled millions. Slickly produced with clear affection for its subject matter, this film is a must-watch for pinball enthusiasts and documentary lovers as it provides a splendid mix of historical context, personal stories, and a salute to an enduring American pastime. Whether you are a seasoned pinball wizard or just a casual viewer, Special When Lit offers an intriguing ride that will leave you pining for just one more game.