Hardly Working

About This Movie

Hardly Working dives into the overlooked lives of non-player characters in video games, presenting an unusual blend of animation and documentary. It's got this surreal tone, almost like a digital ethnography, where the mundane routines of these characters reflect larger themes of labor and existence. The pacing feels contemplative, allowing you to sit with their repetitive tasks and odd bugs—a metaphor for the grind of modern capitalism, really. The animation style is striking, with a quirky vibe that adds to the atmosphere. The whole thing feels both playful and surprisingly poignant, showcasing a side of gaming that’s rarely explored. It raises questions about agency and purpose in a virtual world, which is distinctively thought-provoking.

Explores NPCs in gamingUnique animation styleReflects themes of labor and capitalism