| From a critical perspective, there’s something strange about David Romero’s The Story of Funko. Perspective is the issue. Documentaries such as this are more effective when they have a sense objectivity and memory. In 10-20 years, we would have a much better idea of where Funko’s products, or the company itself, stands in terms of culture. Funko products are everywhere right now. You can’t go into a store without seeing a POP! Vinyl figures are everywhere, and the trend is not slowing down. It’s true, I have more POPs that I care to admit. That’s the appeal. I am definitely in that demographic but writing an autobiography during the first year of a president’s term is still a big deal. Making fun: The Story Of Funko begins with the beginnings of the firm. The film then moves through a series vignettes, focusing on celebrities and larger fans, showcasing their impressive collections, or the novelty that comes with having your image molded into merchandise, especially POPs. The film takes us behind the scenes to see how the mascot was created, the POPs concept and the manufacturing process, and the grand opening and construction of the Everett headquarters. What is a puff piece? Certainly. Although not without merit from the fan’s perspective. The 99-minute runtime is devoted to the fans, and it’s a relief that it features as many collectors as celebrities. You get to see both sides. The sentimentality of the film is somewhat forced. It’s best when the film alternates between fan perspectives and the company trying out new lines. It’s a fact that this film didn’t have to be full-length. It’s clear that The Story of Funko, given the Netflix Original “The Toys That Made Us,” would work better as a 44-60-minute episode of this to avoid padding. This usually concentrates on lines which have been a part of pop culture for a long time. We aren’t far enough along yet to know if Funko is a fad or a game changer. It’s just as interesting as you make it. There are worse things to do for an hour if you’re a collectibles enthusiast. You might feel a little better about the fact that you don’t have enough space in your home. It could be that I’m just trying to convince me. | |
Making Fun: The Story of Funko (2018)
Genre(s): Documentary
MPAA Rating: NR
Director(s): David Romero
Actor(s): Chris Beck, Dave Brisbois, Eric Bauza, Jeff Ayers, Kevin Eastman, Kevin Smith, Mike Becker, Robert Englund, Tony Hawk
Writer(s): David Romero
Producer(s): David Romero
Studio(s): Eddie Grace Arts & Film, Netflix
Length: 99 minutes
Release Date(s): US: May 24, 2018
