FILM SHOWCASES & SPECIALTY SERIES
The LightReel Film Festival offers the best in independent and major studio BIPOC films from around the world. From feature-length films to shorts and everything in between, the festival celebrates cinematic excellence from award-winning and emerging filmmakers. More than 60 competition films are selected, along with panels, workshops, and special guest interviews.
Competitions are held in four categories, including narrative feature, documentary feature, and shorts, as well as several specialty competition series. The Shorts Spotlight competition includes films that transcend traditional filmmaking modes. The festival's Gala and Spotlight screenings feature major films.
Competition Series
(Winners receive the Black Butterfly Festival Award”)
Narrative Features
From laugh-out-loud comedies to deeply moving dramas, the selected narrative feature films showcase diverse storytelling, exceptional performances, masterful direction, and outstanding cinematography and editing.
Documentary Features
More than just capturing a subject, documentaries tell powerful stories that inform, inspire, and challenge audiences, offering thought-provoking insights on timely and impactful topics.
Shorts Spotlight
These short narrative and documentary films transcend traditional filmmaking, offering stories that make us laugh, reflect on the challenges many face, and reshape the way we see the world around us.
Screenwriting Competition
The mission is to embrace new voices, creativity, and a passion for innovative storytelling. Featuring several categories including, drama, comedy, and horror, in addition to the short competition, 30-minute, and 60-minute pilots.
Audience Award
Presented to the filmmaker of the Festival audience’s choice of best feature, documentary, or short film of the entire Official Selection. This excludes Gala Screenings.
Gala Screenings
Get an early look at buzzworthy films premiering at the festival or not yet in wide release. Many films that have played at LightReel have gone on to be considered for major awards, including the Academy Awards, Black Reel Awards, Independent Spirit Awards, and other prestigious honors.
Non-competition Series
Spotlight Screenings
Experience exclusive screenings of select feature-length films vying for top honors, followed by in-depth discussions with the creative minds who brought them to life. Gain unique insights into their storytelling process, artistic vision, and the journey from script to screen.
Panels and Workshops
Panels and workshops are an essential part of the LightReel programming. From in-depth discussions with industry stars and insiders to engaging panels on filmmaking, storytelling, and distribution, knowledge sharing takes center stage. They offer an intimate space for thought-provoking discussions.
LightReel Talks
Engage in exclusive one-on-one conversations with industry creatives and filmmakers in an intimate festival setting. These insightful discussions offer a unique opportunity to delve into their creative process, career journeys, and the ever-evolving world of cinema.