Lee alumni will be featured in the Chattanooga Film Festival

The annual Chattanooga Film Festival selected films from former Lee students Adam Nies and Tabitha Pearce to be featured in the weekend's events.

'The Painter' by Nies and 'Anxiety' by Pearce are cinematic pieces that will be represented at the festival.

Nies' stop motion Lego short 'The Painter' won awards for directing, editing and best short at the Lee University Film Festival last year.

'The more projects I do the better I get,' Nies said.

Nies said he hopes to improve while working on additional assignments.

His connection with Lee continues as a new member of the communications department as production coordinator.

Tabitha Pearce was inspired by her own life experiences to film 'Anxiety,' which depicts a man's struggle with anxiety disorder.

'I adore the impact a film can make on an audience's emotions,' Pearce said.

This movie also took home three awards from Lee's film festival including best actor, Nathan Tullos, best actress, Kate Bosch, and best screenplay.

Pearce continues to research new film techniques and is the creator of a film critique cite.

'Film is a major part of my life,' Pearce said.

Both attribute their success to their alma mater.

'Lee helps you build the connections and acquire the skills for success, especially through the classes [it] offers,' Nies said.

Pearce credited her professors' role in her journey.

'My professors became my mentors in film,' Pearce said. 'They pushed me to do my best.'

When it comes to film making, Nies said just going out and doing something is a good place to start.

'Just get out there with your friends and make something,' Nies said.

The Chattanooga Film Festival will be held at the Carmike Majestic and Double Tree Hotel in downtown Chattanooga, on March 31 - April 3.

For more information click here.

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