Some short films entertain. Others linger. “Gaming For Love” belongs firmly in the second category.
Screening Monday, July 22 at the LA Shorts International Film Festival, this emotionally charged short from writer-director Erin Gavin explores an unexpected place where love can grow: the world of online gaming.
Inspired by true events, Gaming For Love follows Maisie, a young girl battling cancer who finds strength, connection, and meaning through gaming communities. What begins as digital escapism becomes something far more human—proof that real bonds can form in virtual spaces, and that love doesn’t always arrive the way we expect.
For anyone who’s ever underestimated gaming, this film quietly but firmly challenges that assumption.
A True Story Rooted in Empathy, Not Gimmicks
What sets Gaming For Love apart is its restraint. Gavin doesn’t sensationalize illness, grief, or technology. Instead, she focuses on emotional truth—how people show up for one another when physical proximity isn’t possible.
“I felt this wave of emotion reading about the real story,”
erin Gavin shared
“I knew immediately this was the one I had to tell.”
That instinctive pull shaped the entire production. Written in January, shot in Scotland just weeks later, and completed in an intense, fast-moving schedule, the film carries urgency without feeling rushed. Every moment earns its place.
Gaming as Community, Not Escape
Rather than framing gaming as isolating or addictive, Gaming For Love presents it as connective—a space where empathy, humor, and loyalty can thrive. Gavin worked closely with members of the gaming and tech community to ensure the portrayal felt authentic.
The result is a film that resonates with gamers and non-gamers alike. It’s not about consoles or platforms—it’s about people.
And yes, there’s a twist. A quiet one. The kind that lands later, when you’re already on your way home.
Today’s conversation with Erin Gavin from “Gaming For Love” has been edited for length and clarity. For the full, un-edited conversation, visit our YouTube channel here.
A Cast That Carries the Weight Gently
Performances are subtle and deeply felt—especially impressive given the three-day shoot. The chemistry between the actors feels lived-in, not rehearsed, a testament to Gavin’s instinct for casting and collaboration.
Much of the cast came together through local Scottish theater connections, reinforcing a theme that runs through the film itself: community builds community.
Why LA Shorts Is the Perfect Home
Known for spotlighting emerging voices and emotionally resonant storytelling, LA Shorts International Film Festival is an ideal platform for Gaming For Love. The festival’s reputation for championing character-driven shorts gives this film the space it deserves to breathe—and to be felt.
For viewers who appreciate films that ask questions instead of handing out answers, this is a must-see.
Mini FAQ: Erin Gavin Gaming For Love
Q: What is Gaming For Love about?
A: The short film follows a young girl with cancer who finds strength and connection through online gaming, inspired by true events.
Q: When and where is it screening?
A: Monday, July 22 at LA Shorts International Film Festival in Los Angeles.
Q: Is the film about gaming culture?
A: Yes—but more importantly, it’s about human connection and love found in unexpected places.
Gaming For Love doesn’t shout. It doesn’t preach. It simply opens a door—and trusts the audience to walk through. In doing so, Erin Gavin delivers a short film that feels intimate, timely, and quietly powerful.
If you’re attending LA Shorts on July 22, put this on your list. If you’re someone who believes storytelling still has the power to surprise us, this one’s for you.
Follow Erin Gavin and the film’s festival journey on social media under Erin Gavin Artist and Gaming For Love.
On most of the social medias Erin Gavin Artist, like Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, TikTok.
Gaming For Love has its own pages on Facebook and Instagram.
It’s screening 22nd of July at 1pm at LA Shorts in Los Angeles.
