Second Skin
Second Skin is a profound documentary that delves into the transformative world of MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games). Released in 2008, this film uncovers the intricate dynamics of online gaming and its impact on the lives of real people. Directed by Juan Carlos and produced by Victor Piñeiro and Peter Brauer, Second Skin offers a unique perspective on virtual worlds and how they shape human relationships, identities, and realities.
Synopsis
In this engaging documentary, we follow the lives of seven individuals whose existences have been deeply affected by their involvement in online games such as World of Warcraft, EverQuest, EverQuest II, and Second Life.
The film presents stories of online gamers whose lives are interconnected both within and outside the virtual worlds. It introduces us to a couple who fell in love online and the tumultuous changes that ensued as their relationship transitioned from the virtual to the physical world. We also witness the story of an avid gamer whose life spirals out of control due to his addiction to MMOs.
In a touching exploration of the empowering potential of these games, Second Skin highlights disabled players who have found new avenues for self-expression and mobility in the virtual world. The film also provides an intriguing glimpse into the controversial practice of Chinese gold farming, shedding light on the complex realities of online gaming economies.
Distribution
Second Skin made its world premiere at the South By Southwest Film Festival in 2008, showcased as a Spotlight Premiere. It was available for free viewing on Hulu between August 7 and August 13, 2009, courtesy of Honda. The film later made its way to DVD, released on August 25, 2009, and has since been recognized as one of the all-time best video game documentaries.
Reviews
Press
POPULAR SCIENCE
China Tries to Curb Gold Farming
THE WRAP
Virtual Worlds are not Just Time-Wasters
COMPUTER GRAPHICS WORLD
Alter Ego
HULU: INTERVIEW
Interview with the Filmmaker
ADOBE: SUCCESS STORY
Success Story: Second Skin’s Viral Marketing Campaign
VENTURE BEAT
China’s crackdown on virtual goods could ripple through game economy
TV TECHNOLOGY
Second Skin Uses Adobe Premiere Pro
BOING BOING TV
Second Skin, and the lives of Massively Multiplayer Online gamers
EPIC FU ON REVISION 3
Gaming Addiction, Viacom vs. YouTube, Second Skin
NPR: HERE AND NOW
Second Skin on Friday, April 25th
IFC NEWS AT SXSW
Nerd Uprising: Second Skin
VICE
This movie will make you cum
JUDITH CALVERT-TOULMIN’S BLOG
In Conversation with Juan Carlos, Director of Second Skin
MAHALO DAILY
Second Skin Documentary Interview
ORATO
How MMORPG’s Shape Our Culture
REAL TV FILMS
Second Skin, SXSW
E FILM CRITIC
SXSW Interview: Second Skin Director
TEN TON HAMMER
An Interview with MMORPG Documentary Makers
Awards
ADOBE MAX AWARD
Honorable Mention in Entertainment: Second Skin
AIN’T IT COOL NEWS
#4 Documentary of the Year: Second Skin
ACE FILM FESTIVAL
Best Documentary: Second Skin
Hi, I’m
Juan Carlos
Fueled by a passion for storytelling and excitement for life design, I find joy in reframing narratives to illuminate paths toward fulfillment. My experience spans high-growth startups, filmmaking, and social impact, culminating in my authorship of “Mind Guide: 49 Mental Models for Effective Decision Making.” Through mentoring and coaching, I guide teams and individuals to discover purpose and cultivate a meaningful life.
My Story
I started in film, directing award-winning features such as ‘Know How’ and ‘Second Skin.’ These cinematic endeavors earned me recognition and allowed me to serve as a spokesperson for Adobe. I founded the White Roof Project, a grassroots climate activism campaign that mitigated the urban heat island effect and spurred community-led social change.
I carried my storytelling skills and passion for societal transformation as I transitioned into the startup ecosystem. Initially, I contributed to social impact apps, converting complex issues into accessible solutions. This early experience laid a foundation for my later work, where I led the development of groundbreaking products within high-growth startups. My work has underscored the potential of technology to innovate industries and amplify the quality of human life.