Hot Docs 2008

The fantasy worlds displayed in role-playing games World of Warcraft, Second Life and EverQuest are second homes to millions of users who live and love in these virtual spaces. The film takes a frenetic look at the Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) subculture and its devotees: four friends bond and break-up; a couple falls in love without meeting; a disabled man grows wings; a gaming addict enters rehab; "gold farmers" in China ply their trade. Slipping in and out of these virtual worlds leads to real-world consequences-jobs, relationships, health and bill payments suffer. Never has a leisure activity been seen to pose such a threat to the status quo. Second Skin takes a voyeuristic approach to the lives and problems of its characters, mimicking the connected disconnection of their beloved games. An engrossing look at the real-world industry and side-effects grown from a virtual "time-waster."
-Angie Driscoll

Co-presented with Fantasy Worldwide Film Festival.