‘Lesbian Simulator’ is an interactive virtual reality artwork and video game which will prompt users to experience the world from the perspective of a lesbian. While this artistic ode to love and sexual preference doesn’t shy away from tackling serious issues as well, such as the discrimination and abuse that lesbians still face today, you can expect an uplifting experience full of joy, humour and a touch of glitter!

Inspired by the personal experiences of Iris van der Meule and those close to her, ‘Lesbian Simulator’ aims to create awareness in a playful manner. Users experience some of the key aspects in the existence of a queer person such as: coming-out to various people, making new friends, going on a date but also the first time feeling discriminated or even verbally abused.  ’Lesbian Simulator’ mirrors the blind spots within our society in relation to the acceptance of lesbians (and indirectly, of queer people in general). It is an ode to love and sexuality, about the exploration of your sexual orientation and about being embraced by the lesbian and queer community. It is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. 

The experience is set-up as a game. Users build their own lesbian persona and navigate her through various challenging moments. The simulator sometimes requires participants to discover and interact with other characters. Other times they are given the space to reflect upon and analyze reactions of other protagonists, mirroring prejudices and misconceptions lesbian can also experience in the real world. The player gets to experience the way in which they are treated differently as a lesbian in terms of inequality, discrimination and sexual harassment. But fear not, it’s not all dark and gloomy. Next to these difficult situations, the users will also experience the positive side of life as a lesbian, such as the warm embrace of the queer community and celebratory moments like the annual Pride. 

In each level of ‘Lesbian Simulator’ the player can earn ‘Carabiners’ . This prompts participants to not shy away and wholeheartedly explore the lesbian perspective. At the end of the experience their score will decide what Lesbian Rank they’ve earned. (So they can brag about it to their friends!)

By mapping aspects from the life of a lesbian in a fun and interactive way, ‘Lesbian Simulator’ invites all participants to open their hearts and minds in order to acknowledge and understand the challenges queer people might be experiencing. Walking in the shoes of a lesbian can help us all better connect with each other and ultimately celebrate love in all its forms! 

A VR film and game created by Iris van der Meule.

A Studio Biarritz production
in coproduction with Podium Biarritz, Art et Essai and Cassette for timescapes

Download the presskit

Production details:

Country: The Netherlands, Canada and Belgium
Status: In production, expected in 2025
Running time: 40 minutes
Language: Dutch, English and French

Animation VR artwork & game

Lesbian Simulator (previously called Gay Simulator) was initially developed as part of the Next Talent and Hub program between 2019-2021. The project was further developed also through the talent program Filmforward Vrijplaats.

The project was presented as part of the Gap Financing Market at the Venice Biennale, the XR Market / New Images, the Impulse market / CinemArt 2023 and the Immersive Tech Week as well as the Holland Film meeting / The Netherlands Film Festival 2022.