Lightspeed Film Exhibition is a bold, community-driven showcase created by Neal Cropper, Leonard Farr, and Victoria Clements to champion local filmmaking talent on Vancouver Island. Born from a shared challenges over the lack of screening opportunities for indie creators, Lightspeed exists to give outstanding short films the theatrical spotlight they deserve. Our mission: connect filmmakers with audiences, celebrate regional storytelling, and grow a vibrant local film culture—one screening at a time.

Rules & Terms

Rules & Terms
To qualify for submission, films must meet the following criteria:

Made on Vancouver Island or the Canadian Gulf Islands: Submissions must be created by filmmakers who are Canadian Residents and live on Vancouver Island or the Canadian Gulf Islands.

Short Films Only: Films must be under 20 minutes in length, including credits.

Exhibition Ready: Final films must be delivered in high-quality digital format suitable for theatrical screening.

Clear Rights: You must hold all necessary rights for public exhibition, including music and footage.

Lightspeed Film Exhibition is a celebration of local talent. We welcome diverse voices, bold storytelling, and original vision from filmmakers across Vancouver Island and the Canadian Gulf Islands.
7 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Steve Barker

    From the Director- this festival was so special! There was a real connection with locals and the organizers made us all feel at home. The choices of films honoured both skill and creativity. The atmosphere was electric, I highly recommend it. - Eric Hinch

    March 2026
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  • Tim Jantz

    Light speed was light-years ahead.
    The communication, the community, the caring organizers, Neal, Leonard and Victoria were so kind and welcoming, made my wife feel right at home in the community as well.
    The even was sooo fun I can't wait to be back!!!
    Thank you for an amazing event!!

    January 2026
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  • Autumn St Cyr

    For it being my first in-person film festival experience, I am honoured to have been in attendance of a celebratory night at Lightspeed. Their mission to spotlight island-made films by island filmmakers is something I’m proud to represent as a local, as well as having my short film ‘The Gift of Kin’ being one of the many diverse films screened. Thank you Lightspeed for a fabulous event. Here’s to many more!

    January 2026
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  • Volare Media

    What a fantastic experience! The festival had a great selection of films, showcasing a variety of styles and genres. Everything was well organized and fun, and they even kept me on my toes at the start to make sure they had all the details—something we filmmakers can really appreciate, since we’re always juggling a hundred things at once. Highly recommend this festival!

    January 2026
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  • Doug Law

    Lightspeed has a great venue and the audience was great. I couldn't have picked a better event to have the premiere of our film on Vancouver Island. The after party was fun too. 10/10

    January 2026
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