Special Screenings
LightReel Film Festival 2026
LightReel’s Special Screenings showcase distinctive films and cinematic moments that extend beyond the official competition—celebrating storytelling, culture, and legacy across generations.
LightReel Legacy
A new signature program, LightReel Legacy honors landmark works of Black cinema through special presentations and restored screenings, connecting past and present through the power of film.
Riverbend (1989)
Recently restored, Riverbend returns to the screen as a powerful story of resistance, community, and justice. Set in the American South during the 1960s, the film follows a group of Black soldiers who take a stand against oppression and fight to reclaim dignity and autonomy for a town living under systemic control.
Alma’s Rainbow (1994)
Also recently restored, Alma’s Rainbow tells the coming-of-age story of The life of teenager Rainbow Gold as she enters womanhood and navigates standards of beauty, self-image, and the rights women have over their bodies.
Why Legacy Matters
LightReel Legacy reflects the festival’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the films that have shaped the cultural and creative landscape. These screenings offer audiences the opportunity to experience foundational works in a communal, theatrical setting.