The Commodore Story is a documentary film that explores the history of Commodore, a pioneering computer company that revolutionized the personal computing industry in the 1970s and 1980s. The film features interviews with engineers, games developers, and other key figures who helped shape the company's legacy, as well as first-hand accounts from early users who were part of the first 8-bit generation of personal computing.
The film examines Commodore's rise to prominence with the launch of its first computer, the PET (Personal Electronic Transactor) in 1977. This was followed by the release of the VIC-20 in 1980, which became the first home computer to sell one million units, and the iconic Commodore 64 in 1982, which went on to become the bestselling computer of all time.
The film also explores how Commodore's innovations in gaming and multimedia technology helped establish the company's legacy. Notably, it examines the development of the Amiga, a groundbreaking computer that was ahead of its time in terms of graphics and sound capabilities.
The Commodore Story delves into the company's internal struggles and contentious leadership changes, which ultimately led to its downfall in the early 1990s. Despite its challenges, Commodore's legacy continues to influence the personal computing industry to this day, and the documentary showcases the enduring impact of the company's innovations.
The film features interviews with key figures such as Chuck Peddle, the designer of the MOS 6502 CPU; Bil Herd, the designer of the C128; RJ Mical, the co-designer of the Amiga; and Dave Haynie, a former Commodore engineer. It also includes insights from prominent games developers such as Rob Hubbard, the composer of classic C64 game soundtracks, and Jeff Minter, the creator of iconic games like Attack of the Mutant Camels.
Overall, The Commodore Story is a fascinating exploration of the history, influence, and legacy of one of the most significant companies in the personal computing industry. It provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who grew up during the 8-bit generation, and a revealing look at the technological innovations that helped shape the industry as we know it today.