Joe Bird Joins 'Moana' Star in 'Crashout'

Joe Bird is set to star in "Crashout," a new Gen Z satirical thriller, joining Catherine Laga'aia in the lead roles. Production for the film is slated to commence later this month.

Bird brings significant recent success to the project. His queer horror film, "Leviticus," premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, earning critical acclaim before being acquired by Neon in a seven-figure deal. "Leviticus" is also scheduled to screen at SXSW this month. Prior to this, Bird was featured in A24's successful horror film "Talk to Me" and Warwick Thornton's Western, "Wolfram."

Evelyn Sims will also be part of the ensemble cast in what is described as a potential breakout role. Laga'aia, previously announced as the film's lead, is widely recognized for her upcoming role in Disney's live-action "Moana."

"Crashout" is the creative vision of writer and director Nick Annas. The film is produced by Helen Tuck and Enzo Tedeschi under the banner of Deadhouse Films, a company recently recognized with two AACTA nominations. The executive producers include Deanne Weir of WeirAnderson Films, alongside Bobby Romia and Tianna Roberts from the new entity Atypical Originals. Stephanie Pringle and Alison Fowler of Chicken and Chips Casting managed the casting process for the film.

Worldwide sales rights, excluding Australia and New Zealand, are being managed by Blue Finch Films. This U.K.-based company's current offerings also include "Bowels of Hell," a selection from Rotterdam from Oscar-winning RT Features; the SXSW selection "Imposters"; and the horror film "Dolly," which had its theatrical release earlier this month via IFC.