Fact Check: Uncovering the Truth Behind the Tetris Movie
Hey there puzzle enthusiasts and movie lovers! We're here to dive into the world of "Tetris" the Apple TV+ movie that has been making waves. But before we embark on this journey let's separate fact from fiction and see what really happened behind the scenes.
In "Tetris" actor Taron Egerton takes on the role of Henk Rogers a brave businessman who sets out to secure the rights to the iconic falling-block video game amidst the intriguing backdrop of the Soviet Union in the 1980s. According to Egerton himself most of what you see on the big screen is actually true which is why he was eager to tell this remarkable story.
Now let's uncover the truth starting with Henk Rogers' risky trip to Russia. As a Dutch-born American-raised entrepreneur running Bullet-Proof Software in Japan Rogers fell head over heels for Tetris when he tested it at a tech show in Las Vegas. After seemingly securing the Japanese console rights for the game he borrowed a whopping $2 million to produce video game cartridges using his in-law's home as collateral. However things took a dramatic turn when the state-owned ELORG software company refused to honor their agreement sparking a frantic battle over intellectual rights.
In the movie we see Rogers traveling incognito to the Soviet Union fearing for his safety. The scene where his translator warns him about entering ELORG's Moscow headquarters captures the genuine fear he experienced during the trip. Rogers himself confirms the authenticity of this moment and shares that he even braved going through those doors alone as his interpreter refused to accompany him.
But what about the spying element in the story? Rogers admits that he always had the feeling of being monitored with people seemingly knowing his previous conversations. The movie takes it a step further by introducing a KGB spy in the form of Rogers' beautiful Russian translator Sasha. While this particular detail might be exaggerated for the sake of drama the concept of spies infiltrating various aspects of life in the Soviet Union was definitely a believable reality.
Now let's address a couple of exciting but fictionalized moments in the movie. Contrary to what we see on screen Rogers was never roughed up by KGB thugs who stole his Levi's jeans. And that thrilling car chase to the airport? Well that's pure Hollywood imagination. As Tetris co-creator Alexey Pajitnov explains the animated segments during the car chase are a clue that those scenes are far from reality and were simply added for extra excitement.
On a more heartwarming note the movie beautifully portrays the deep friendship between Rogers and Pajitnov capturing their genuine bond amidst the subterfuge. Their first meeting in Pajitnov's humble apartment is depicted accurately according to Pajitnov himself. And while Pajitnov initially did not make any money from Tetris' early success he eventually started earning royalties when Rogers secured the rights for handheld gaming which later went to Nintendo. The enduring friendship between these two pioneers is undeniable with Rogers sharing that whenever they are in the same place they meet up for some quality time—no business talk just friendship.
So there you have it folks! The fact-checking journey behind the "Tetris" movie revealed the blend of truth and fiction that brings this captivating story to life. From Rogers' daring adventure in Russia to the intense atmosphere of the Soviet Union this historical drama showcases the resilience and determination of those who fought to bring the iconic Tetris game to the world.
Whether you're a fan of Tetris or a movie buff this film offers an engaging glimpse into the extraordinary events and friendships that shaped the iconic video game. So grab some popcorn get cozy and prepare to be swept away by the thrilling tale of "Tetris"!