Dave Porfiri

A small, passionate group of filmmakers and film lovers is working to increase the film presence in Chattanooga, both in local production and major studio works.

The Association for the Future of Film and Television met Nov. 11 at the EPB building downtown, and 127 people attended.

Founded by Jan Austin, former deputy director of the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission, the AFFT works to create legislation to increase film and television opportunities in Tennessee. The AFFT is a statewide trade organization representing film and television professionals.

“It was important for me to get involved with AFFT because I see tremendous potential here in Chattanooga,” said Dave Porfiri, owner of Mindflow Media and AFFT board member. “(We) have a lot of unique challenges as filmmakers based in Chattanooga. The opportunities are not as plentiful as they might be in a major urban area.”

In 2006, local film enthusiasts lobbied for incentives to entice major studios to the state. The 104th General Assembly of Tennessee passed the Visual Content Act later that year, directing $10 million to the fund. The AFFT works to support initiatives for local film industry, including incentive development.

The community of local filmmakers is growing as well.

“We’ve got some independent filmmakers here in town,” said film commissioner Missy Crutchfield. “We’ve got some really good production companies here, and it’s growing. (Young filmmakers) are on fire.”

Freelance videographer Emily Bowen co-hosted a meet-and-greet of young and aspiring filmmakers on Nov. 6.

“I wanted to allow for an exchange of ideas of locally produced projects here in Chattanooga,” she said. “There are a lot of people who have film project ideas who may not have the resources to do it, but someone else may.”

Film-related programs are available at local schools, including University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Bryan College and Southern Adventist University. Chattanooga State Technical Community College will introduce a professional film and television program in January. The classes are intended to train those interested in the technical side of filmmaking.