Bugboy is a 2026 documentary film written and directed by Lucas Paleocrassas. A co-production between Greece, France and Denmark, the film follows George, a shy teenager with misaligned eyes, who struggles to connect with others after his parents' traumatic divorce.
The film had its world premiere in the International Competition at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival on 12 March 2026.
It will hold its Regional Premiere at the 32nd Sarajevo Film Festival on 20 August 2026, screening in the Competition Programme – Documentary Film 2026, and competing for the Heart of Sarajevo award.
Synopsis The film documents George’s journey of self-discovery as he accepts his true self and realizes that he need not be alone any longer.
George is a quiet teen with crossed eyes who finds it hard to talk to people after his parents go through a painful divorce. He escapes into insect watching and becomes close to a cricket he names "Isabella." Spending time with her helps him see himself differently and slowly realise where he fits. The story shows that even tiny creatures can guide us toward belonging and self-growth.
Release
Bugboy had its world premiere at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival on 12 March 2026 in the international competition. Subsequently in May 2026 it was screened at the Millennium Docs Against Gravity in Millennium Bank Award – Grand Prix.
It had its United Kingdom premiere at the Sheffield DocFest on 11 June 2026 in People & Community. In July 2026, it was showcased at the Giffoni Film Festival in Films in Competition.
It had its Regional Premiere at the 32nd Sarajevo Film Festival, where it competes for Heart of Sarajevo award in the Competition Programme – Documentary Film 2026 on 20 August 2026.
It will be screened in Documentary Competition section of the Zurich Film Festival on 27 September 2026.
Accolades
Award Date of ceremony Category Recipient Result Millennium Docs Against Gravity 14 May 2026 The ART.DOC AwardBugboy Sarajevo Film Festival 21 August 2026 Heart of Sarajevo Award for Best Documentary Film
References
External links
Bugboy at Autlook Filmsales Official trailer on YouTube