When Max Martin, 17, was a kid watching TV he remembers thinking, "Someone made this, I want to do it too." 

He has always loved to read, and often visualized the stories on a screen. 

As he grew up, Martin explored this creative passion to make short films for school and with his siblings for fun. 

Last month, he released his first short film called 'The Code Within.'

"I got the idea for 'The Code Within' from the growth of AI in our present times with things such as ChatGPT and MetaAI, and the possible consequences that could happen if we took it too far," Martin told The Star. 

The film follows the story of a young man in a difficult financial situation who makes a risky decision to accept an experimental AI chip implanted in his body for money. 

He added that he's very happy with the final result of the short film. 

"The cinematography came out beautifully, in my opinion, the acting was well portrayed, and the sound was spot on... Overall, I'm really proud of how the final product turned out thanks to an incredible cast and crew."

Martin said he enjoys being able to create something unique and new, while presenting it in a way that hasn't been seen before. 

"Something that I can personally enjoy as a director, and because my faith is central to everything I do, pointing people to God through my films is something that is important to me as well." 

The Aldergrove teen is now in California for university, where he hopes to hone his skills and gain further filmmaking experience. 

Currently, he is working with his sister, Sarah, on a musical/drama film. 

Martin encourages other young people to study hard to get into the world of filmmaking.

"Study hard so that when you begin to work on your first film, you know what you are doing and can confidently jump into it with both feet."

'The Code Within' released in theatres in August.