Every year, the Crazy8s Film Society challenges filmmakers to do the impossible: create a fully realized short film in just eight days. It’s fast, it’s intense, and it’s a proving ground for emerging and mid-career talent in B.C.’s vibrant film scene.
Since its launch in 1999, Crazy8s has been more than just a competition; it’s a launchpad. Filmmakers get funding, mentorship, and all the resources they need to bring their stories to life, while crews gain essential on-set experience. The result? Films that go on to thrill audiences worldwide and open doors to festivals, awards, and long-term careers.
This year’s top six finalists are a mix of bold concepts, unforgettable characters, and daring storytelling. From surreal body horror to darkly comedic twists, these short films prove that creativity doesn’t wait, and neither do the filmmakers who rise to the challenge.
Why Crazy8s Matters
Crazy8s isn’t just a race against the clock; it’s a springboard for filmmakers. In just eight days, participants gain skills, exposure, and mentorship that can shape their careers for years to come. Here’s what makes it so vital:
- Hands-on training: Cast and crew get real, on-set experience, learning every aspect of production.
- Creative freedom under pressure: The short timeline sparks innovative storytelling and bold ideas.
- Festival-ready films: Projects premiere at the Gala Screening before reaching audiences worldwide.
- Diversity and inclusion: Crazy8s actively nurtures new voices, giving filmmakers from all backgrounds a platform to shine.
- Career launchpad: Alumni have gone on to international success, proving that eight days can be the start of a lifetime in film.
With its mix of support, challenge, and opportunity, Crazy8s continues to be a cornerstone of B.C.’s film community, and this year’s finalists are proof of that.
The Top 6 Finalists of Crazy8s 2026
This year’s finalists showcase bold storytelling, unforgettable characters, and a wide range of genres. From dark comedy to surreal horror, each film proves that creativity thrives under pressure.
1. FULL ASIAN
- Director/Writer: Ely Davidson
- Producer: Ione Fernando
- Logline: Feeling out of place as a half-Japanese male, Benny undergoes a surgical procedure called “Beyond Asian,” erasing his non-Asian heritage and implanting artificial memories.
- Why it stands out: Tackles identity, belonging, and the intersection of culture and technology in a thought-provoking sci-fi twist.
2. GONE VIRAL
- Director: Kat Reynolds
- Writers: Kat Reynolds, Felicia Simone
- Producers: Mariam Barry, Ian Nsenga, Jessica To, Adrian Neblett, Mimi Dejene
- Logline: Amelia, a true crime podcaster struggling to gain followers, discovers a horrifying secret behind a juice that makes influencers go viral.
- Why it stands out: A sharp critique of social media algorithms and representation, blended with suspenseful horror.
3. MOULD
- Directors: Morgan Abele, Kiki Evans
- Writer: Morgan Abele
- Producer: Noah Rosellini
- Logline: Overwhelmed twenty-something Stevie’s body begins turning into clay, forcing her to fight to reclaim her original form.
- Why it stands out: Surreal and visually striking, exploring transformation, identity, and the struggle to stay “whole.”
4. THE DECISION
- Director: Cory Thibert
- Writer: Steven Cayer
- Producer: Jelian Quincina
- Logline: A sharp-witted man with cerebral palsy faces a risky medical trial, testing his independence and forcing him and his loved ones to confront what freedom truly means.
- Why it stands out: Emotional depth and human drama, highlighting disability, autonomy, and relationships.
5. THE LAST CALLER
- Director: Mariel Calvo
- Writer: Miguel da Ponte
- Producers: Hailey Cole, Mariel Calvo
- Logline: A dedicated bingo caller struggles with vocal nodules on the biggest day in his hall, questioning his identity and career.
- Why it stands out: A quirky, character-driven story blending humor with the pressures of personal and professional life.
6. THE THING INSIDE HER
- Directors: Jacki Gunn, Della Haddock
- Writer: Jacki Gunn
- Producer: Lizzi Pedersen
- Logline: After IUD removal, a woman discovers her boyfriend is a giant slug, a shocking and darkly comedic revelation.
- Why it stands out: Outlandish, hilarious, and horrifying all at once, a wild mix of horror and dark comedy.
What Makes This Year Stand Out
Crazy8s 2026 isn’t just another round of short films; it’s a showcase of creativity, diversity, and fearless storytelling. Here’s why this year’s finalists are turning heads:
- A mix of genres: From dark comedy (The Thing Inside Her) to surreal body horror (Mould), sci-fi (Full Asian), and heartfelt drama (The Decision).
- Bold and original concepts: Each film pushes boundaries with unique premises and daring narratives.
- Exploring identity and society: Stories tackle cultural belonging, autonomy, social media pressures, and personal transformation.
- Emerging voices: The filmmakers are new or mid-career talent, bringing fresh perspectives to B.C.’s film scene.
- Festival-ready quality: With strong direction, writing, and production, these shorts are poised to reach audiences worldwide.
This year proves that Crazy8s continues to be a powerhouse for innovative storytelling, giving audiences films that are surprising, thought-provoking, and impossible to forget.
Wrapping up
The Crazy8s 2026 finalists are proof that incredible stories can be told in just eight days, with passion, creativity, and a little bit of madness. From surreal transformations to darkly comedic twists and heartfelt dramas, these films showcase the next generation of filmmaking talents.