Still Standing (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Still Standing is a poignant exploration of the pinball and arcade culture that once thrived in Australia. Directed by Brad Gilbertson, the film captures not only the nostalgia of the gaming era but also the profound impact it had on communities and individual lives. The narrative flows seamlessly, ... Show more >> Still Standing is a poignant exploration of the pinball and arcade culture that once thrived in Australia. Directed by Brad Gilbertson, the film captures not only the nostalgia of the gaming era but also the profound impact it had on communities and individual lives. The narrative flows seamlessly, interweaving personal anecdotes with broader historical context, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with the gaming world. The interviews with passionate gamers and industry insiders add depth, revealing the emotional connections people have with these machines. Gilbertson's direction is thoughtful, allowing moments of joy and heartbreak to resonate. While the film occasionally feels like it glosses over certain aspects of the industry’s decline, the overall experience is uplifting and reflective. Still Standing is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the intricate relationship between culture and gaming. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Still Standing is a mixed bag of nostalgia and heartfelt stories, but it doesn't fully hit the mark. Sure, it takes us back to the days of pinball and arcades, and you can almost hear the sounds of the machines as you watch. The film has its moments, particularly when it showcases the passion of the ... Show more >> Still Standing is a mixed bag of nostalgia and heartfelt stories, but it doesn't fully hit the mark. Sure, it takes us back to the days of pinball and arcades, and you can almost hear the sounds of the machines as you watch. The film has its moments, particularly when it showcases the passion of the gamers, but it sometimes feels like it skims over the deeper issues facing the industry. The pacing can drag, especially in parts where it gets too caught up in sentimental storytelling. While it's charming and has a certain warmth, it left me wanting more substance and a bit more exploration of the challenges faced by the gaming community. If you're a fan of gaming history, it's worth a watch, but don't expect a comprehensive analysis. Show less