Watch LARPs

LARPs, a Canadian mockumentary web series from 2014, follows the lives of several Live-Action Role-Play (LARP) enthusiasts as they navigate through the real and fantastical worlds of their hobby. Created by filmmaker and LARP enthusiast Julian Stamboulieh, the show gives an intimate and humorous look at the people behind the costumes, weapons, and fictional personas.

The story begins with a group of friends who play a game called "Demons and Destiny" in a park. They introduce themselves and their characters to the camera, showing off their costumes and props. The game master, a laid-back but strict guy named Shane, sets the scene for their adventure.

As the series unfolds, we get to know the players and their characters better. There's Simon, a shy and nerdy guy who becomes more confident when he's playing his heroic character, Belgrim. His crush on Gwen, a beautiful and outgoing player who portrays a wizard named Sariel, sparks a love story that echoes their characters' romantic tension.

There's also Evan, an arrogant and competitive player who loves to flaunt his wealth and status in the game. He clashes with the group's resident hippie, Kili, who preaches peace and harmony among players. Rounding out the main cast is Robbie, a new player who hasn't quite found his footing yet but is eager to improve.

Throughout the series, we see the players struggle with real-life issues that affect their game. Simon deals with anxiety and fear of failure, while Evan's strained relationship with his father spills into the game. Kili has to confront her prejudices towards other players, while Robbie grapples with fitting in and finding his own voice.

The show features several game sessions, each with its own plot and twists. The players face off against demons, dragons, and rival factions, all while staying in character and adhering to the game's rules. We see how the players use their imaginative skills and teamwork to overcome obstacles and achieve victory.

The series also highlights the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating a LARP game. We see the players spending hours crafting their costumes and weapons, building props and set pieces, and brainstorming plotlines. The game masters have their own challenges, from managing logistics and wrangling players to improvising on the fly when things don't go according to plan.

Overall, LARPs is a lighthearted and relatable exploration of the LARP subculture. It doesn't take itself too seriously, but it also doesn't mock or ridicule its subjects. Instead, it celebrates their creativity, passion, and community. The show's cast is endearing and engaging, and the storylines are fun and compelling. Whether you're a LARP enthusiast or just a fan of good storytelling, LARPs is well worth a watch.