Back to 2024 MFF Archive

Ibelin

Directed by Benjamin Ree
Norway
2024
103 mins

When Mats Steen, a Norwegian gamer, died of a degenerative muscular disease at age 25, his parents mourned what they thought had been a lonely and isolated existence. They were unaware that Mats had long been leading a vibrant digital life that had left a profound impact on a community of fellow gamers.

The film takes us on a journey through the breadth of Mats Steen’s adventurous online life, introducing us to Ibelin, his charismatic World of Warcraft persona. Through reconstructed animated moments from Mats’ gameplay, narrated entries from his blog, and interviews with people who knew him as Ibelin, a picture of a remarkable young man emerges—one that underscores how community and soulful relationships can transcend the boundaries of the physical world.

  • Year
    2024
  • Country
    Norway
  • Language
    English
  • Premiere Status
    Florida Premiere
  • Director
    Benjamin Ree
  • Cast
    Mats Steen, Kelsey Ellison, Zoe Croft
  • Cinematographer
    Tore Vollan, Rasmus Tukia
  • Editor
    Robert Stengård
  • Genre
    Documentary, Biography
  • Theme
    Local

Join the festival insider

Stay up to date with upcoming releases, exclusive events and festival news