Director’s Take: ‘Virtual Girlfriends’ & Digital Loneliness

Award-winning director Barbora Chalupová, known for her incisive examinations of online culture, delves into the complex world of virtual relationships with her latest documentary, “Virtual Girlfriends.” Rather than focusing on the sensational aspects often associated with online sex work, Chalupová reveals a deeper narrative: one primarily driven by human loneliness. Fresh off the success of this thought-provoking film, she is also preparing for her much-anticipated fiction debut, signaling a new chapter in her directorial career.

‘Virtual Girlfriends’: Unpacking Connection in the Digital Age

Chalupová is no stranger to exploring the intricate and often perilous landscapes of the internet. Her previous co-directed work, “Caught in the Net,” exposed the issue of sexual predators exploiting underage girls online. Five years later, she notes a significant shift in the digital sphere, observing how adult women are actively taking control and recognizing the financial potential of their bodies through platforms like OnlyFans.

“Virtual Girlfriends” was born out of a curiosity to understand the mechanics of this business and to challenge the media narrative that portrays online content creation as an instant path to millionaire status. She found that while OnlyFans creators in the Czech Republic are gaining public recognition – referring to themselves as ‘content creators’ and their patrons as ‘fans’ – many were initially hesitant to participate in the film due to the perceived permanence and traditional nature of cinema compared to their online activities.

However, through a workshop leader known as Inked Dory, Chalupová gained access to women like Rosalinda and Tinix, who were just beginning their journey in online content creation. The film sheds light on the varying degrees of social acceptance and stigma surrounding this work. Producer Pavla Klimešová highlights the stark contrast between the Czech Republic and more religious Slovakia, where being an OnlyFans creator can pose significant societal challenges. Even in the Czech Republic, creators have faced professional repercussions, with one protagonist losing a conventional job due to her online content.

Despite the difficulties, many young women consider OnlyFans as an alternative to traditional jobs, drawn by the financial prospects. Chalupová emphasizes the importance of portraying the reality of this path honestly, acknowledging that it can lead to difficulties, including depression and a loss of privacy. Working with cinematographer Šimon Havel, Chalupová ensured the content was filmed in a non-exploitative way, using long shots and observation to present the creators’ lives as normal, rather than sensationalized.

The Heart of the Matter: Loneliness, Not Explicit Content

A central tenet of “Virtual Girlfriends” is its pivot away from the assumed emphasis on sex to an exploration of loneliness. Chalupová questioned why millions of men would pay for content when free pornography is so readily available. Her research revealed a poignant truth: many men seek an “online girlfriend” who offers appreciation, filling a void left by constant rejection or a desire for connection.

Strikingly, statistics cited by Chalupová suggest that over 90% of these male consumers are in committed relationships, with wives and girlfriends. Yet, they engage with content creators who offer intimate online calls. “This film isn’t about sex. It’s about loneliness,” Chalupová asserts, highlighting how the documentary also portrays the personal relationships of the content creators themselves, many of whom are open about their profession.

The emotional labor involved for these creators is significant, as they dedicate considerable time and emotional effort to their clients. For some partners of creators, this dynamic is tolerated, perhaps viewing it as a “small toll to pay” for the significant financial contribution it brings to the household.

From Documenting Reality to Crafting Fiction: Chalupová’s Next Endeavor

Following the critical reception of “Virtual Girlfriends,” Barbora Chalupová is set to embark on her fiction directorial debut with a film currently titled “On Tranquility of Mind.” This upcoming project draws inspiration from a supporting character in her documentary, known by the moniker Madame Cobra.

Madame Cobra’s focus on S&M practices and her intriguing backstory captured Chalupová’s attention, prompting a desire to explore these themes in a new format. While a departure from documentary, “On Tranquility of Mind” will leverage Chalupová’s extensive experience. It will be a scripted film that delves into themes of manipulation, yet it will uniquely feature non-actors alongside their actual clients, blending elements of realism with narrative storytelling.

This transition signifies Chalupová’s continued interest in exploring complex human dynamics and relationships, using her distinct observational lens to inform her approach to fiction. Her debut promises to be as insightful and thought-provoking as her documentary work, albeit through a different creative medium.

Conclusion

Barbora Chalupová’s “Virtual Girlfriends” stands as a crucial examination of modern online interactions, deftly peeling back layers of perception to reveal the fundamental human need for connection and the pervasive presence of loneliness in the digital age. By focusing on the emotional rather than the explicit, Chalupová offers a nuanced portrait of both creators and consumers in the virtual landscape. Her upcoming fiction debut, “On Tranquility of Mind,” further underscores her commitment to exploring the intricate web of human relationships, promising another compelling exploration from a director unafraid to tackle challenging subjects with sensitivity and depth.