Second Skin
Second Skin is a profound documentary that delves into the transformative world of MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games). Released in 2008, this film uncovers the intricate dynamics of online gaming and its impact on the lives of real people. Directed by Juan Carlos and produced by Victor Piñeiro and Peter Brauer, Second Skin offers a unique perspective on virtual worlds and how they shape human relationships, identities, and realities.
Synopsis
In this engaging documentary, we follow the lives of seven individuals whose existences have been deeply affected by their involvement in online games such as World of Warcraft, EverQuest, EverQuest II, and Second Life.
The film presents stories of online gamers whose lives are interconnected both within and outside the virtual worlds. It introduces us to a couple who fell in love online and the tumultuous changes that ensued as their relationship transitioned from the virtual to the physical world. We also witness the story of an avid gamer whose life spirals out of control due to his addiction to MMOs.
In a touching exploration of the empowering potential of these games, Second Skin highlights disabled players who have found new avenues for self-expression and mobility in the virtual world. The film also provides an intriguing glimpse into the controversial practice of Chinese gold farming, shedding light on the complex realities of online gaming economies.

Distribution
Second Skin made its world premiere at the South By Southwest Film Festival in 2008, showcased as a Spotlight Premiere. It was available for free viewing on Hulu between August 7 and August 13, 2009, courtesy of Honda. The film later made its way to DVD, released on August 25, 2009, and has since been recognized as one of the all-time best video game documentaries.
Reviews
Press
POPULAR SCIENCE
China Tries to Curb Gold Farming
THE WRAP
Virtual Worlds are not Just Time-Wasters
COMPUTER GRAPHICS WORLD
Alter Ego
HULU: INTERVIEW
Interview with the Filmmaker
ADOBE: SUCCESS STORY
Success Story: Second Skin’s Viral Marketing Campaign
VENTURE BEAT
China’s crackdown on virtual goods could ripple through game economy
TV TECHNOLOGY
Second Skin Uses Adobe Premiere Pro
BOING BOING TV
Second Skin, and the lives of Massively Multiplayer Online gamers
EPIC FU ON REVISION 3
Gaming Addiction, Viacom vs. YouTube, Second Skin
NPR: HERE AND NOW
Second Skin on Friday, April 25th
IFC NEWS AT SXSW
Nerd Uprising: Second Skin
VICE
This movie will make you cum
JUDITH CALVERT-TOULMIN’S BLOG
In Conversation with Juan Carlos, Director of Second Skin
MAHALO DAILY
Second Skin Documentary Interview
ORATO
How MMORPG’s Shape Our Culture
REAL TV FILMS
Second Skin, SXSW
E FILM CRITIC
SXSW Interview: Second Skin Director
TEN TON HAMMER
An Interview with MMORPG Documentary Makers
Awards
ADOBE MAX AWARD
Honorable Mention in Entertainment: Second Skin
AIN’T IT COOL NEWS
#4 Documentary of the Year: Second Skin
ACE FILM FESTIVAL
Best Documentary: Second Skin
Hi, I’m
Juan Carlos
I believe clear minds lead purposeful lives. My mission is to share frameworks that bring clarity to decisions and purpose to life.

My Journey
I’ve walked diverse paths that converge around helping people see more clearly. From directing award-winning documentaries that transformed perceptions to leading product innovation at high-growth startups, I’ve developed a unique lens for understanding complex systems and human needs.
Today, I create tools for clearer thinking. I’m launching Re:Mind, a mental models system combining physical cards and digital tools that make powerful thinking frameworks accessible to everyone. I write children’s books that nurture independent thought, and I develop technology that simplifies complex challenges.
My Approach
As a storyteller, I capture the narratives that shape our understanding. As a product leader, I build systems that enhance decision-making. As a coach, I help others navigate their personal and professional growth with clarity and purpose.
In the high desert where I live with my family, we marvel at the world’s wonders together. I’ve learned that what we choose to frame—what we focus on—defines our life’s story. My work helps others find their most meaningful frame.
