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Monster Camp is a documentary film from 2007 that explores the world of live-action role-playing (LARP) and follows a group of gamers as they gather for a weekend-long event in the Pacific Northwest. The film is directed by Cullen Hoback and produced by Barry Poltermann. The movie offers an inside look into the world of LARPing, a subculture often misunderstood by outsiders. The film takes a deep dive into the lives of the players, their motivations, and their struggles both in and out of the game.

The main protagonist of the movie is a young woman named Maisy Kay, who goes by the name of "Artemis" in the game. Maisy is a self-described misfit who has found a home in the LARPing community. She takes great joy in playing Artemis, a fearless warrior with a tragic past. The film follows Maisy as she prepares for the weekend-long event, putting together her costume, practising her combat moves, and creating a backstory for her character.

As the players arrive at the campsite, the film introduces us to a range of characters, each with their unique backstory and motivations. From the stern commander of the game, to the young woman who has just come out to her parents, each character brings something different to the table.

The bulk of the movie takes place over the course of the weekend, as the players immerse themselves in the game world. They battle monsters, solve puzzles, and role-play their characters with dedication and passion. The film captures the intensity of the game, as players scream battle cries, wield foam swords, and throw imaginary fireballs at their foes.

The movie does a fantastic job of showing the dedication of the players, who spend months preparing for these events. We see them spend countless hours crafting intricate costumes, creating unique backstories, and memorizing pages of game lore. The film also highlights the immense creativity and imagination that goes into the game. The players are often forced to think on their feet, coming up with inventive solutions to the challenges they face.

The movie also delves into the different factions within the game, showcasing the alliances and rivalries that exist between the players. We see characters develop complex relationships, both romantic and adversarial, as they navigate the game's intricate politics and power structures.

Throughout the film, the players reflect on what LARPing means to them. For some, it's a form of escapism, a chance to live out their fantasies and forget about their problems in the real world. For others, it's a way to connect with like-minded people and form lasting friendships. And for some, it's a form of self-expression, a chance to explore different parts of themselves through their characters.

The film is shot beautifully, capturing the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest and the intricate detail of the game world. The documentary style allows the characters to speak for themselves, giving us a glimpse into their personalities and motivations.

Overall, Monster Camp is a fascinating look into a subculture that is often misunderstood. It shines a light on the passion and dedication of LARPers, and the creativity and imagination that goes into their game world. The film is both entertaining and insightful, crafting a compelling narrative that will appeal to both gamers and non-gamers alike. With its well-rounded characters and stunning visuals, Monster Camp is a must-see for anyone interested in the world of LARPing.

Monster Camp is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.