The world of board games is much bigger than just Monopoly and Risk. Simon Ennis, a director and avid gaming hobbyist, dives head first into the gargantuan subculture of board games of all kinds in The Hobby, which premiered this past weekend at the South By Southwest Film and TV Festival. This unique documentary uses a character-driven perspective to contextualize this vast landscape of gaming. 

One of the subjects in this film is a professional philosophy professor; another is a creator looking to make a splash with their brand new game; and there’s even a subject who just enjoys beating his friends at whatever game they play together. The film follows these diverse and entertaining subjects as they navigate their respective sector of the subculture. There are old games, modern games, war games, Kickstarter games, game content, game conventions, game creation itself, and even ancient games. (Did I mention this film is about games?)

Each of the subjects profiled in the film is fascinating. One by one, they unlock a whole new aspect of this world to the audience. This wealth of knowledge is both a blessing and a curse to the film; so much is packed into such a short amount of time that it becomes difficult to keep track of every personality. With this much material, inevitably, some things aren’t given as much time or attention as others. However, the love and passion that everyone has for their hobby is infectious. It’s impossible not to get wrapped up in the excitement of the World Series of Board Gaming or wish all the success in the world to the subjects who try selling their games. 

The film beautifully captures how powerful any kind of game can be when it comes to bringing people together. The communal aspect of the hobby is highlighted in each segment in a variety of ways, and it’s abundantly clear that Simon Ellis has a lot of love for this subculture, treating every game with respect and reverence. There are clear universal lessons at play, even with something so niche. The film beautifully investigates themes of staying true to what you love no matter what anyone else may say, how human connection can enrich anyone’s life, and it’s not all about winning (but it doesn’t hurt to win every once in a while). 

There is a peppy energy that permeates every sequence due to the enthusiasm of the subjects and the games themselves; the film is covered in gorgeous box art and game designs. Part of the enjoyment of watching The Hobby is exploring all the immense game collections shown in the film. As insane as it may look, those shelves and shelves full of boards are a clear indication of the devotion these subjects feel to what they love. As a deep exploration of subcultures and humanity, The Hobby proves that games are so much more than just for kids. 

Review Courtesy of Gabe Lillianthal at SXSW 2024

Image via Variety; Credit to Director: Simon Ennis, Producers: Kim C. Roberts, Tina Pehme, Justin Rebelo