My SL machinima footage featured in the film “Second Skin” at SXSW 2008 and what I thought
For as long as I have been making Machinima I have wondered what it would look like on “the big screen”. A few months back I was asked, by Victor and Juan Carlos to film some SL machinima for the story of Andrew Monkelban.
I had the privilege to meet Andrew in Second Life before shooting his Avatar. A top notch thinker and passionate artist. I was honored to present the SL side of his story. The freedom virtual worlds offer him in social and creative outlets certainly brings additional enjoyment to his life. The way his story is presented in the film inspires tears and smiles at the same time. In my material life I have been working to bring this technology to more people who could benefit in the ways Andrew describes. I believe Second Skin’s introduction of Andrew’s story will open a lot of eyes.
The film as a whole is very balanced and can pull your strings at times. There is one story of a women who I was beginning to resent until I find out the “why” behind her feelings. That’s a big plus to this film. It features the emotions, struggles, and challenges of the people as much as the worlds in which they are living.
A movie like this has been required by the culture for a long time. I’m happy to see it was done right. It has enough perspectives to bring relativity to many different people.
It was great working with Juan Carlos and Nexeus Fatale on the shoot and I have enjoyed meeting Victor, Peter, and everyone else involved. MMORPGs are about communities, and this film has succeeded in building one of its own. Earth
