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(Chattanooga, TN) Six Indie Films. VIP Guest Filmmakers. 50+ Communities.

What does it take to bring a community together? And how do independent filmmakers tell a story that generates and creates dialogue while still building bridges?

The Chattanooga Film Society launches a new screening series in partnership with The Southern Circuit, one of the South's most respected touring film series. The Southern Circuit is a unique program that brings some of the best indie filmmakers from around the country and the world to communities in the South. Over the years, audiences have seen more than 200 films and have engaged filmmakers in post-screening discussions in more than 50 communities across the Southern U.S.

The Chattanooga Film Society has been selected as the regional host for this highly regarded film series and will present a set of six films - three during the fall 2011 season and three in spring 2012. The film showcase will be presented at Loose Cannon Gallery, located just off Main Street in the Southside’s burgeoning arts community. The screenings take place on the second Monday of each month starting in September. This inaugural offering of Chattanooga Film Society will showcase some of the most sought-after films and documentaries currently on the indie circuit.

Chattanooga Film Society board President Dave Porfiri said, “We want to bring smaller films to our city, promote engagement, and build community by bringing people together to view unique films that discuss current issues of local significance. We also view the series as an opportunity to build an audience for a full fledged Chattanooga Film Festival which we hope to launch in the next few years.”

Porfiri says this year's selection of films is a nice mix of dramas, comedies and documentaries - compelling stories driven by characters and issues. "With each film we are working to partner with local non-profits, artisans, and locally-based companies to build a screening series unique to this city. Each film provides an opportunity to bring our community together, inspire advocacy and offer people a direct way to get involved locally."

The series will feature six films and include a question and answer session with the director as well as community partners. According to Chattanooga Film Society spokesperson Heather Huston, the film series will also offer audiences special performances, art exhibitions and a sponsored beverage tasting and reception.

"Each screening will be introduced by the filmmaker and, of course, there will be time immediately after each film for Q&A," Heather says. "And don't forget, if you want an opportunity to chat one-on-one with the directors or just hang out and people-watch; join us for the pre-show happy hour. We'll have good local eats and beverages available. It's going to be a blast!"

"It's a big win for the city. And it's a chance for the community to see some truly great independent films that spotlight the talents of up-and-coming directors and actors," adds Chattanooga Film Society board member Kris Jones. "Our team is a grassroots organization, so the payoff is an event like this and getting a chance to connect with other film people in the community."

Resources:

www.chattanoogafilmsociety.org