Yes, I'm pretty sure you can use an AVI, or QT for Mac, as a texture.  I don't think you could actually project it onto the figure, but that would get around having to use any reflection.  Specularity might sell the illusion sufficiently.  A couple of potential problem come to mind, though.

First, I'm not sure that the various skin materials would properly share the texture, or make multiple images.  You may have to combine those materials into one.  Also, it will surely try to put half the image on the back.  If it's adjustable, like a 2D image, scale and offset should let you place it where needed.

Sounds like an interesting exercise.  I hope it's not too difficult to pull off.

John