Man at War

Jacek Blawut’s documentary “Man at War” puts the spotlight on men fascinated by World War II who pursue their passion in the realm of computer games. Following players and their lives, the director inquires if we are witnessing the rise of a new type of human – homo virtualis.

The camera is following the international community of Internet players who, using IL-2 Sturmovik – one of the most popular computer flight simulators, engage in air battles trying to change the course of history in the virtual world. Players put themselves in the shoes of WW2 airplane pilots and take part in aerial battles in real time. Some see their passion as hobby, but for many of them it becomes an addiction-like essence of life. Games consume most of their time at the expense of family life and social contacts. Friends from the virtual squadrons replace their real friends. Together they complete training courses and regularly meet during rallies and their virtual enemies, pilots from other countries, are also a very important part of this life.

Jacek Blawut presents players from several countries – the US, Poland, Germany and Russia, all of different professions, ages and marital status – there is a priest, a dentist, an ex-soldier, a student and the like. He gives an insight into their background and inquires why they are so interested in the WW2 period. Simultaneous footage of all players who are taking part in the virtual battle reflects heated emotions sparked by the game.

Besides depicting an unusual hobby and the passion of history, Jacek Blawut also highlights the opportunities created by the virtual world and the way it influences life in modern society. According to the director, “it is high time we talked about the virtual world and described it as it is constantly changing and will be totally different in a few years. The direction we go in is mysterious and amazing. What we describe now is already a thing of the past.”