Educational Media Reviews Online

Second Life (SL) is a virtual reality world where real people interact via computers in an environment that is provided, controlled, and maintained by Linden Labs. This video begins with a view of the initial experience and instructions provided to every new SL avatar (a virtual representation of the person). The host walks the viewer through her introduction to SL and discusses some of her initial reactions and feelings as she acclimates to her new virtual surroundings. This introductory experience provides a good beginning place for audience members who have limited knowledge of SL or virtual reality worlds.

On-camera dialogue by various guest experts and critics such as, Ted Castronova, Philip Rosedale, and Clay Shirky are interspersed with “in world” interviews between the commentator and the documentary’s host in avatar form. This presentation style provides interest, variety, and energy to the documentary presentation. Video of SL experiences, imagery, and inhabitants is well done and bound to promote discussion on its own merit.

Interesting facts and statistics are provided throughout the documentary, some within the context of debate and criticism. This film provides a balance of positive and negative perspectives that are not only about SL but also about the uses, concerns, and future of virtual worlds in general. Specific topics include legal issues such as property and intellectual rights, the sex industry, business, social issues, and education. Regarding the sex industry, there are graphic scenes from SL that one should be aware of before deciding to show this film to a class. These scenes include sexual intercourse, bare-breasted pole dancers, sex toys, and sex organs.

This is a well done, interesting, and thought provoking film. However, viewing of this video in any classroom setting or individually would most likely offend and/or embarrass some students and instructors, and is therefore recommended with reservations by this reviewer.