"Discover the Inspiring Film 'I Am Valued Here': A Touching Digital Journey of a Disabled Boy's Life"

**I Am Valued Here: The Extraordinary Film That Recreates a Disabled Boy’s Rich Digital Life** *Source: The Guardian*

Introduction

The documentary The Remarkable Life of Ibelin tells the touching story of Mats Steen, a young man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who found solace and connection through gaming, particularly in World of Warcraft.

Mats Steen's Journey

Background

• Mats was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at age four, leading to significant physical limitations over time.
• Despite his deteriorating condition, he engaged in gaming for over 20,000 hours, finding community and companionship online.

Family Response to His Death

• Upon Mats’ passing at 25, his parents, Trude and Robert Steen, reached out to his online friends to share the news.
• Their message prompted an overwhelming response from the gaming community, countering their fears about Mats’ loneliness.

The Power of Online Communities

Creating Lord Ibelin

• Mats created an alter ego, Lord Ibelin, a charismatic character in World of Warcraft, which allowed him to explore friendships beyond physical limitations.
• The documentary features a blend of personal home movies and animated sequences that illustrate Mats’ virtual adventures.

Celebrating Gaming

• The film showcases how gaming provided Mats with a sense of freedom and affirmation not found in the outside world.
• Director Benjamin Rees aimed to offset Norway's often negative media portrayal of gaming by highlighting its community aspects.

Impact of the Documentary

Emotional Resonance

• The documentary evokes deep emotions, with screenings frequently leaving audiences in tears.
• It emphasizes themes of belonging, connection, and the meaningful impact of online relationships.

Rees's Creative Approach

• The film weaves Mats’ writings into animation, creating a narrative that intertwines real-life experiences with virtual adventures.
• Rees worked diligently to secure rights from Blizzard, the game’s developer, showcasing the film at their headquarters, where it received a heartfelt response.

Conclusion

The Remarkable Life of Ibelin is more than just a portrayal of Mats Steen’s life; it is a tribute to the power of digital connection and the importance of being valued and remembered in both the physical and online worlds.