New niche categories
We here at LLFF are excited for 2026 opening up and receiving filmmakers' creations. We will be posting regular festival updates here on this film festival thread so that you can comment and ask questions. 2026 we are introducing what we call "Niche" categories. What that means categories that we plan to carve out these niche categories that will be a main focus and highly unique. Below is a list of our niche categories and explanations of them and what we are bringing to the plate that is unique regarding to them.
Best Original Score
This niche category while is not an uncommon category to see at festivals however, the way we are approaching the category is rather unique and powerful. First, we have an internationally Multi Awarded Film Composer, Orchestrator and Sound Designer that is the director of the category, Andreu Jacob. Receiving his feedback of your original score can and will be vital and important industry information regarding the scoring in your film.
Best Nostalgia
This niche category is for film that is not digital. Our director of this category is Don Cunningham who specializes in traditional film. Because of his expertise this direction which will make his feedback very important. By reviewing your film, he will recognize things others may miss.
Best Comedy & Best Horror
In these two categories we are niche because we are tapped into a focus group of die-hard fans of these two genres. There is no one more important than fans of the film you are making especially these two markets that have huge success in streaming with very low budget films. Our focus groups will give you suggestions and feedback that you will want to know!
Best Hybrid
Hybrid is a mix of genres and use of different software techniques and effects. This niche category is founder/director Leisa Coffman's passion. Coffman is an Avant-garde creator. While she is a writer, filmmaker, director and producer she is also a film editor and a program guru. She enjoys exploring different techniques and has her own unique artistic methods. Her feedback will be useful and helpful.
So, this is Luna Lumen Film Festivals niche categories. We have the other usual categories as well. What we will suggest is that you combine your niche categories with the usual categories. For example, if you are submitting to Best Original Score, and you would like to be considered for that film to be Best of Festival then enter both of those categories. You will receive two feedback's relative to the category.
This is why we call our festival The Lumen Effect, we are bringing unique niches to the festival the Luna Lumen way!!