Orgasmic | Straight8 Film

Experimental Short Film | Straight8 Competition Entry 

Produced by Eight Five Two Filmmaking

Overview

Orgasmic is an experimental art-house short film produced by Eight Five Two Filmmaking as part of the prestigious Straight8 Competition — where entrants shoot an entire film on a single roll of Super 8 film, with no editing or retakes allowed. The project explores sexual shame, fantasy, and self-acceptance through abstract, sensory-driven visuals and a layered soundscape.

Shot over two days at private and studio locations in London, Orgasmic uses intimate cinematography, experimental lighting, and voiceover to take the viewer on an emotional journey from inner conflict to liberation.

Synopsis

Tea, a young woman burdened by shame about her sexual fantasies, grapples with feelings of brokenness and isolation. Through a surreal, dreamlike encounter at a party, she meets Violet — a figure who offers understanding, validation, and acceptance. Through shared dance and conversation, Tea learns that fantasy is not shameful, but a powerful, private realm of self-expression.

Production Timeline

• Development: January 2023

• Principal Photography: February 25–26, 2023

• Submission Deadline: March 20, 2023 (Straight8 Official Entry)

Production Details

• Format: Super 8 film (Straight8 format — no post editing allowed)

• Length: 2 minutes 30 seconds

• Budget: Micro-budget (self-funded)

• Crew Size: 5–6

• Locations: Garden Studios

• Shooting Style:

  • Single-take sequences with pre-choreographed camera movements

  • Naturalistic lighting blended with colored LED setups

  • Emphasis on physicality, mood, and emotional expression over dialogue

Creative Highlights

• Shot blind on Super 8 film with no digital monitoring, following the strict Straight8 rules.

• Built an original audio track after filming, layering ambient soundscapes, breathing, and character voiceover to create a fully immersive experience.

• Used contact improvisation dance techniques to symbolize emotional release and trust.

• Employed soft red, gold, and blue colour palettes to evoke shifting emotional states.

• Carefully navigated sensitive subject matter with artistic subtlety and emotional intelligence.

Narrative Themes

• Sexual shame and internalized stigma

• Fantasy as a safe space for liberation

• The power of imagination and consent

• Finding self-acceptance through empathy

Screenings & Accolades

• 📽 Raindance Open Shorts Night (2023)

• 📽 London Lift-Off Film Festival (2023) – Official Selection

• 📽 Fisura, International Festival of Experimental Film and Video (2024) – Official Selection

Produced By

Eight Five Two Filmmaking 

Director: Marsha Jean 

Producer: Ewan Windebank