Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story 2011

History

Sport

Documentary

Box Office

$13K

Runtime

88 min

Language

English

Directed by

Kevin Tostado

Made by

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Plot Summary

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The classic board game, MONOPOLY®, has captivated over a billion players around the globe for an astonishing 75 years, establishing itself as a worldwide cultural phenomenon. The documentary, Under the Boardwalk: The MONOPOLY Story, takes us on a journey through the intriguing tales surrounding this game and the diverse individuals who engage with it. With the engaging narration of Zachary Levi, known for his performances in NBC’s Chuck and Disney’s Tangled, the film brings to life the essence of MONOPOLY.

One of the key focuses of Under the Boardwalk is the national and world championships held every four years. As excitement builds towards the crowning of a new champion at the latest World Championship in Las Vegas, the filmmakers introduce us to some of the most colorful and competitive players in the MONOPOLY community.

However, this documentary delves deeper than just the competitive landscape and examines the compelling backstory of MONOPOLY itself. Few understand that it originated as an anti-capitalist political statement, appearing three decades before it morphed into a game focused on wealth accumulation, emerging notably during the Great Depression. The narrative explores the transformation of MONOPOLY and the reasons behind its enduring popularity. It further investigates psychological insights into gameplay and shares winning strategies, enhancing the viewer’s understanding of this beloved game.

MONOPOLY’s cultural significance lies not only in its gameplay, but in its fascinating history, including its role in aiding WWII POWs escape, its influences on film and television, and its connections to numerous intriguing world records and trivia. The documentary also spotlights the quirky collectors who are passionate about MONOPOLY, showcasing the diverse ways the game has touched lives.

Ultimately, MONOPOLY started as a medium for friends and families to connect and has evolved into a unifying force across the globe, transcending language barriers and bringing diverse communities together through its universal language and celebrated World Championships.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story (2011) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Origins of MONOPOLY

The game MONOPOLY originated as an anti-capitalist political platform, highlighting its initial purpose before being transformed into a form of entertainment. This setting paved the way for the game's eventual popularity among families and friends across the globe.

1930s

Evolution During the Great Depression

As the world faced the economic turmoil of the Great Depression, MONOPOLY emerged as a way for people to engage in a fantasy of wealth and property ownership. Its simple yet addictive gameplay resonated with players seeking joy in a tough time, leading to its explosive popularity.

1930s

World Championships Launched

The MONOPOLY World Championships were inaugurated as a way to celebrate competitive gameplay and bring together the best players from around the world. Held every four years, these championships showcase the skills and strategies of MONOPOLY enthusiasts.

1980s

First National Championship

The first national championship took place, establishing a competitive framework for players eager to prove their MONOPOLY mastery. This event garnered attention and excitement, marking a significant moment in the game’s history.

1980s

Las Vegas Championships

In the most recent World Championship held in Las Vegas, players from diverse backgrounds competed fiercely for the title of champion. The event attracted numerous spectators, showcasing the dynamic and vibrant atmosphere surrounding competitive MONOPOLY.

2023 Las Vegas

Cultural Influence

MONOPOLY's impact extended beyond just gaming, influencing movies and television shows since its inception. This shows how embedded the game has become in popular culture, inspiring various media adaptations and references.

Psychology of the Game

The documentary explores the psychology behind MONOPOLY, delving into why people are drawn to competition and strategy. The fascinating insights reveal deeper connections players have with the game beyond mere entertainment.

Strategies for Winning

Viewers are introduced to winning strategies that can enhance their gameplay experience. By offering valuable tips, the documentary equips both new and seasoned players with knowledge to increase their chances of success.

Quirky Collectors

The film features several passionate collectors who dedicate their time to acquiring rare and unique MONOPOLY memorabilia. Their stories add an eccentric layer to the game's appeal, showcasing the devotion it inspires.

Escape Routes in WWII

Some fascinating history about MONOPOLY revealed how the game was secretly used to assist WWII prisoners of war escape. This unique angle highlights the game's surprising role in serious historical contexts.

Global Unity Through Games

As MONOPOLY evolved, it transcended cultural barriers and helped connect players worldwide. The game has become a universal language, uniting friends and families across various cultures and fostering relationships.

World Records and Trivia

The documentary showcases various world records and interesting trivia associated with MONOPOLY. From the fastest game played to unique variations, these facts highlight the game's diversity and wide-ranging appeal.

Setting

Learn where and when Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story (2011) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

20th century, modern era

The movie touches on a pivotal time in the 20th century when MONOPOLY not only emerged during the Great Depression but also evolved into a cultural icon. Its timeline showcases the game's transition from an anti-capitalist platform to a beloved family game that continues to be played worldwide, indicating its enduring legacy and relevance in modern culture.

Location

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, famous for its vibrant nightlife and casinos. In the context of MONOPOLY, it hosts the World Championships, where players from all over the globe come to compete for the title. This bustling city is often associated with excitement, competition, and a dash of luck, making it a perfect backdrop for the cinematic exploration of the game.

🎲 City 🌍 World Capital

Themes

Discover the main themes in Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story (2011). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

💰

Capitalism

Capitalism is explored through the lens of the MONOPOLY game, which initially began as a critique of wealth accumulation. The documentary examines how the game has shifted culture and perceptions of riches, providing insights into societal attitudes and economics. It illustrates the irony of a game that promotes financial conquest while highlighting its origins as a social commentary.

🎉

Community

The theme of community is prominent as MONOPOLY has historically brought friends and families together around a game board. The documentary showcases the social aspects of the game and highlights its ability to connect people worldwide, especially during the World Championships. This theme emphasizes the importance of camaraderie and shared experiences.

🃏

Strategy

Strategy plays a crucial role in the game of MONOPOLY, and the documentary dives into the psychological aspects of gameplay. Viewers learn about effective strategies for winning the game while also gaining insights into the mental tactics of leading players. This exploration encapsulates the competitive spirit that drives the MONOPOLY championships.

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