The short film Breakthrough has received four nominations at the 2026 Leo Awards, recognizing the Northern BC production among the province’s top short dramas of the year. The Leo Awards celebrate excellence in British Columbia film and television production.
The film earned nominations in the following Short Drama categories:
- Best Visual Effects – Short Drama — Kenji Rodriguez
- Best Production Design – Short Drama — Madison Stenner, Jason Arkell-Boles, Cai Holm, Ava La Pena
- Best Costume Design – Short Drama — Allisa Swanson
- Best Make-Up – Short Drama — Theresa Lund, Graden van Erklens
Shot in Prince George, Breakthrough was created with the support of Honorary Colonel Tom Newell, who also served as Executive Producer on the film. The production also received invaluable assistance from the Rocky Mountain Rangers, helping bring authenticity and community collaboration to the project.
Breakthrough was written by, produced by, and stars Michael John Fuller, whose work on the film has helped showcase the growing strength of filmmaking talent emerging from Northern British Columbia. The film was also produced by Norm Coyne of Barker Street Cinema, continuing his ongoing work supporting independent productions and regional filmmaking across BC.
“These nominations are a huge achievement for everyone involved,” said Coyne. “Prince George has an incredible creative community, and Breakthrough shows that powerful stories can be made anywhere when passionate people come together to support independent film.”
The Leo Award nominations highlight the depth of talent involved in the production, from visual effects and design teams to costume and make-up artists, all contributing to the film’s distinctive creative vision.
The film’s recognition continues a growing wave of Northern BC productions gaining provincial and international attention, while spotlighting Prince George as an emerging production centre for independent cinema.