LOS ANGELES — April 10, 2025 — The highly anticipated documentary Arcades & Love Songs: The Ballad of Walter Day is set to make its Los Angeles premiere at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres on April 17, with the film’s stars in attendance. The musical documentary, directed by Oscar-winning producer Ed Cunningham (Undefeated, The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters), marks his feature directorial debut and will run in theatres nationwide through Monkey Wrench Films from February 28 to May 2025.

The film serves as a spiritual sequel to the cult classic The King of Kong, revisiting legendary esports figure Walter Day—now 74—who faces a lawsuit that challenges his legacy as the “father of esports.” While navigating the legal battle, Day pursues a long-held dream: recording and performing rock-opera love songs that have lived in his imagination since the 1980s arcade era.

The documentary combines music, nostalgia, and emotion, featuring never-before-seen footage and heartfelt interviews. It includes returning characters from The King of Kong and introduces new insights into the quirky and passionate world of competitive gaming.

In addition to the theatrical release, virtual press days are scheduled for April 10 and 11, offering early access and interviews for media outlets. Private screeners are also available upon request.

The film has already generated buzz for its touching narrative and unique blend of documentary and musical storytelling. Produced by Jonathan Perkins, Seth Gordon (The Lost City, Baywatch), and Mike J. Nichols (Zappa), with executive producers including Byron Ashley, Harrison Kordestani, and Cathy Loveland, the film promises to resonate with fans of indie documentaries and nostalgic gaming culture alike.

Arcades & Love Songs: The Ballad of Walter Day follows the distribution success of Monkey Wrench Films’ recent releases, including Who Is Stan Smith?, Pay Dirt: The Story of Supercross, and Art and Life: The Story of Jim Phillips.