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Netflix's 'The Remarkable Life of Ibelin' Captures a Virtual Life's Impact

The documentary tells the story of Mats Steen, a gamer with muscular dystrophy, and his profound online community.

  • Mats Steen, diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, lived a vibrant life through the game World of Warcraft.
  • His parents discovered the depth of his online friendships only after his death at age 25.
  • The film uses 3D animation to recreate Mats' digital interactions, crafted by a single animator, Rasmus Tukia.
  • The documentary premiered at Sundance 2024 and received high praise, earning a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
  • Director Benjamin Ree highlights the emotional and social connections Mats formed in the gaming world.
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