Plot

Monster Camp is a quirky yet thoughtful documentary about the world of live-action role-playing and the people who bring fantasy to life through their passion and creativity.

Welcome to Monster Camp, the true story about a world where people transform into creatures, heroes, and monsters to escape their daily lives. In the vein of Lord of the Rings, World of Warcraft, and Dungeons and Dragons; these enthusiasts have developed a complicated world to bring their fantasies to life. Romantic relationships are forged between characters. Friendships are destroyed over plot disputes. Characters are slain and never return. But keeping this world alive takes a lot of real world work. And unless someone is willing to take charge, the fantasy may be lost forever.—Cullen Hoback

"Monster Camp" documents the activities of NERO Seattle, where participants dress as fantastical characters like elves, wizards, warriors, and monsters to role-play in an elaborate make-believe world. The film offers insight into the logistics of putting together a LARP event-the painstaking preparation, costume design, and rule-setting that go into creating the fantasy experience. It also chronicles both the in-game dynamics (battles, alliances, and character-driven stories) and the personal lives of the players. It seeks to understand why these individuals take part in such an intense hobby and what they derive from it.—Aaron Kirk Douglas, Co-Producer

A rare and fascinating glimpse into a real-life version of World of Warcraft where gamer stereotypes are simultaneously shattered and confirmed.

For 48 consecutive hours-- there are no breaks, not even for sleep -- immerse yourself in a world completely unlike our own. A world built upon fantasy, chivalry, and imagination; a place where you can be anything, dress however, have almost any power, and live as a hero, healer, or villain. Its a place that lets you transform yourself, perhaps becoming the person you wish you really were. Welcome to Monster Camp, the true story of NERO Seattle.