Joysticks (1983)
Release Year: 1983
Nation: United States of America
Alternative Title: Video Madness
Director: Greydon Clark
Writer: Al Gomez, Curtis Burch, Mickey Epps
Production & Genre
Producer(s):
Companies: Jensen Farley Pictures
Genre: Comedy
Awards & Similar
Awards: N/A
Similar:
Keywords
Keywords: arcade, nerd, sex comedy, valley girl, video game
Story
In 'Joysticks', a successful businessman named Mr. Mitchell becomes concerned about the mental health of children due to their excessive fascination with video games at an arcade named 'Funkenstein's'. Determined to close down the arcade, he hires a team of attractive female 'arcade counselors' who are supposed to discourage the kids from playing games by making them more interested in dating. However, things don't go as planned when the kids prove impervious to their charms and even turn one of the counselors into an arcade enthusiast herself.
Summary
'Joysticks', released in 1983, is a comedy film directed by Greydon Clark that captures the early '80s video game craze and societal concerns about its impact on youth. The movie stars Scott McKay as Jeff, the manager of Funkenstein's arcade, and features cameos from real-life gaming champions like Billy Mitchell (not to be confused with the character Mr. Mitchell played by Roddy McDowall). While not a cinematic masterpiece, 'Joysticks' offers a nostalgic glimpse into the early days of video game culture.
