Volunteer Spotlight: Teo

Nadine: How did you get involved with the festival? How long have you been a volunteer?

Teo: I moved to Halifax 3 years ago, and 2023 marked my 2nd year of volunteering. Film has been a lifelong passion of mine since my time in my home country, so when I discovered this local festival after moving to Halifax, I definitely felt the urge to contribute to it in some way.

N: What is your favourite Atlantic International Film Festival memory?

T: I love seeing the spectrum of films showcased by this festival, ranging from Atlantic to international films. Whenever I meet local audiences or creators through the festival, it excites me and I can feel creative sparks igniting.

N: What part of the film festival would you recommend to a first-time festival goer?

T: I highly recommend trying international films. Honestly, it’s not easy to have the privilege of seeing globally acclaimed international films in our regular cinema life. AIFF offers special opportunities every year for incredible cinematic experiences.

N: What do you most look forward to every year at AIFF?

T: As an entrepreneur offering branding and graphic design services in this city, I thoroughly enjoy AIFF’s branding activities every year. Their yearly themes, concepts, communication strategies, and ads are genuinely fun and vibrant. I believe their consistent and energetic branding and marketing activities make Halifax much more inspiring and active.

N: What is your favourite film?

T: I still can’t forget the moment and emotions I experienced when I watched MONSTER (by Kore-eda Hirokazu) in 2023, a new film by one of my favourite directors. The storytelling was amazing, and the performances by the child actors were exceptional. I cherish those moments when a movie broadens and deepens my world and perspective, and MONSTER did exactly that for me.

N: What is your favourite movie snack?

T: Popcorn is definitely a classic favorite, but I also love the combination of nachos and dipping cheese.