In the wake of a traumatic childhood, Veera turns to live-action role-play as a method of empowerment and escape. LARPing, as the role-play adventuring is called, takes Veera and the viewer to a variety of mysterious worlds, each presenting new opportunities for Veera and her contemporaries to reinvent themselves, to solve problems, and to find kindred spirits. In Veera’s case, the wondrous escapist pursuits also provide points of access and departure—to her brother and from her father, respectively. Director Tonislav Hristov sets a beguiling mood with long, luminous takes and an atmospheric tone punctuated with scenes of intrigue, catharsis, and visual splendor. Playing out on an intimate personal scale as well as shining a cold light on a distressing societal condition, The Magic Life of V suggests all the world is indeed a stage, and the roles in this film—some chosen, some imposed—are haunting and uncanny.  TM

Filmmaker Q&A following screening