LightReel Film Festival Program
Discover the complete 2026 lineup featuring narrative features, documentary films, short cinema, and Screenplay Competition selections from emerging and established BIPOC filmmakers.
From premieres to bold new voices, the program highlights stories from across the African diaspora and beyond, presented in the heart of Washington, DC.
Lineup Announcement
The official 2026 lineup will be revealed in April. Explore each program section below and revisit this page for film titles and screening details.
Browse the Programs
🟣 Narrative Features
Bold, character-driven storytelling from emerging and established filmmakers. Discover premieres, award-winning performances, and unforgettable cinematic voices from across the diaspora.
🔵 Documentary Features
Urgent, intimate, and eye-opening nonfiction cinema. Real stories that inform, inspire, and challenge audiences through powerful documentary filmmaking.
🟡 Narrative Shorts
Fresh voices and breakthrough talent in short-form storytelling. Bite-sized films packed with heart, humor, and big ideas from the next generation of filmmakers.
🟠 Documentary Shorts
Impactful real-world stories told with clarity and craft. Short documentaries capturing culture, community, and change in compelling ways.
🔴 Screenplay Competition
Celebrating bold new writers shaping the future of storytelling. Selected screenplays will be presented during the festival, highlighting emerging voices from across the diaspora.