A TIFF fan, volunteer and resident
One of the really nice amenities of
Film lover lives in unique downtown condo connected to festival’s headquarters
Elayne Williams is a devoted TIFF participant who lives at the Festival Tower condominiums. This unique residence is physically connected to the TIFF Bell Lightbox, home of the Toronto International Film Festival.
How did you first get involved with TIFF?
I started volunteering for TIFF in 2002. It evolved from volunteering on the weekends and after work, and then it was taking time off to volunteer, and then it was a mix of getting tickets and volunteering, and then I became a member. And now I take off the entire 11 days.
What’s it like being connected to the
TIFF Bell Lightbox?
The fun thing is that you have a bit of a back entrance, so that if you’re upstairs and want to watch a movie, you don’t have to go outside.
Have you bumped into any celebrities yet?
Deepa Mehta. I saw her three days ago in the elevator. I managed not to blubber. I did one of those side glance things.
What is your condominium like?
I have a one-bedroom with an east view. I have a very small space, but it’s just enough for me. I think you fill the space you have.
It’s been a real learning experience about how to be economical with your space and use the amenities that are around you.
What other amenities are in the building?
this building is that there’s a 66person theatre for the residents. There is a social committee here that does a movie night and they inform the residents what’s showing and you can come and convive with your fellow residents.
How many films do you think you’ll see?
Last year, I bought a 20-pack and I saw 25 films. This year I bought a 20-pack and I think I’ll probably see 25 again.
Some of them come up at the last minute. Special screenings happen.
What kind of films do you pick?
I’m really interested in the refugee stories that are happening around the world, the people that have to leave because of political persecution.
I try to find the films where people have obviously done something extraordinary to bring a story forward that you’re not going to see otherwise.