
BLACK BUTTERFLY AWARD WINNERS
HISTORY
DC Film Critics Support the Inagural Lakefront Film Festival, 2019
Pictured L-R (Arch Campbell, Sherin Nicole, Mae Abdubaki, Roxana Haddadi, Nell Minow, Tim Gordon, Travis Hopson, and Jen Chaney.
DC’s Summer Cinematic Event
The LightReel Film Festival was founded by film critic and producer Tim Gordon to celebrate the power of storytelling and amplify diverse voices within the world of independent cinema. Created to establish a platform for burgeoning and established film creatives, the festival has become a cornerstone event for filmmakers and audiences alike, held annually in Washington, DC’s vibrant Union Market District. From its inception, LightReel has been committed to showcasing unique perspectives and fostering meaningful connections through film. Featuring a rich lineup of independent films from around the globe, along with panels, workshops, and social events, the festival has established itself as a dynamic intersection of creativity, advocacy, and community. Its evolution reflects a steadfast dedication to supporting filmmakers and cultivating an inclusive platform where stories that inspire, challenge, and entertain take center stage.
EMPOWERING FUTURE CREATIVES
The LightReel Film Festival serves as a platform for fostering the storytellers of tomorrow by showcasing diverse voices and offering opportunities for emerging filmmakers to share their work with a global audience. Through curated screenings, interactive panels, and meaningful networking events, the festival provides a space where creativity and innovation thrive. By celebrating unique perspectives and nurturing talent, LightReel inspires the next wave of storytellers to push boundaries, explore new narratives, and shape the future of film and television.