Short Film Sunday: Week 5 - United by Ping Pong

Everyone thinks they’re good at ping pong until they play someone better and lose. That pretty much sums up my week. A solid streak of getting beaten by friends, coworkers, and strangers. It’s funny how a simple game of hitting a tiny white ball back and forth can quickly expose who’s got it and who’s just lucky.

Despite the recent losing streak, I am determined to get my ping pong skills back to above average. A redemption arc is in the making.

This week’s Short Film Sunday highlights how metal tables scattered around downtown New York bring together people from all walks of life. These public tables act as a rare common ground in an otherwise high-brow city. I liked how the filmmakers captured the players’ backgrounds and why this game, of all things, has a way of connecting people.

Ping pong holds a special place in cultures worldwide, especially in Asia. Just because it is not as dominant in the U.S. does not mean I was not the undisputed champion of my high school ping pong class (Andrew, if you’re reading this, just go with it). Hopefully, those glory days make a comeback. Until then, I will be at the table, getting my reps in.