FLESHERS
PHANTASMAL FILM FEST · MAY 2026
Director:
Demika Traicos
2026
Content Warning: Fake Blood/Gore.
FLESHERS is a 15 minute horror-comedy short that encapsulates the absurdity of university life with a classic zombie twist set entirely within the claustrophobic confines of university hals. The story thrives on its relatability and anonymity, the setting could be anywhere in the UK. This universal backdrop heightens the story's accessibility, resonating with anyone who has experienced an infamous British Freshers. "It’s the morning after a messy freshers’ week party. Three hungover first year students wake up to find their flatmate has turned into a zombie overnight. Trapped with only the shambles of last night’s chaos, they must navigate the hals of their student accommodation while facing undead partygoers, reluctant alies, and the absurdity of their situation. A fresh, hilarious take on surviving university." KEY PRODUCTION FACTS: 4 day shoot in the beginning of August with a budget of only £500, Shot on location in one of our old University’s student halls, A cast and crew consisting of 30 people Female-led creative team (Director, Cinematography, Production Design and Sound were al headed by Women), Crowdfunding through greenlit, Practical make-up effects, Shortlisted for the First Flights Film Fund and now showing on Minute shorts.

A Little Bit About The Filmmaker
Do you like scary movies? And if so which ones?
I’m not drawn to super intense, anxiety driven horror, but I love films that play with the genre in a more stylised or subversive way. I’m really into cult classics that blend horror with other elements like coming of age or comedy. Jennifer’s Body, The Craft, Shaun of the Dead are favourites for that reason. I’m especially interested in the more fantastical, expressive side of horror rather than pure fear.
Who or what is the biggest influence in your film making?
I’m really interested in genre as a way of exaggerating reality. I love blending horror, comedy, and coming of age elements to create something that feels both familiar and slightly surreal. Most of my ideas come from lived experiences, especially the awkward charms of everyday life, and then pushing them into something more heightened or playful. I think that’s where the most interesting social commentary comes from.
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