A recent article in The Daily Mail, one of the UK’s most widely read newspapers, highlighted the rise in popularity of pinball, mentioning the MPI Original feature film Pinball: The Man Who Saved the Game as a contributing factor to the game’s resurgence. The article details how, since the film’s release, Mark Squires, owner of The Pinball Surgery repair shop, has seen a remarkable increase in demand, now facing a four-year waiting list for repairs.

Written and directed by longtime MPI filmmakers Austin and Meredith Bragg, Pinball tells the true story of Roger Sharpe, a GQ journalist and accomplished pinball player, who in 1976 helped overturn a 35-year ban on pinball in New York City. The game had been outlawed for its perceived association with gambling, but Sharpe’s dramatic demonstration of pinball’s skill-based nature convinced city officials to change their stance, leading to the game’s legalization and renewed popularity. Starring Mike Faist (West Side Story), Crystal Reed (Swamp Thing, Teen Wolf), and Dennis Boutsikaris (Better Call Saul), the film has received praise for its engaging portrayal of this overlooked yet pivotal moment in history.

You can stream Pinball on Hulu, Apple TV, and Prime Video. If you’re interested in a compelling, true-to-life story with a nostalgic twist, this film is a must-watch.