Spotlighting the 65th AAFF Intern Cohort (Part 1)

Month/Day, 2026

I've said it before and I'll say it again, the festival thrives on intern power. 

We are a notably small team who seems to luck out each year with the coolest, spunkiest, most creative folks who want to join our internship program. The balance of everyone's individuality and collective passion for the arts world makes for an excellent team that helps us get things done! I am looking forward to another fantastic year with these wonderful folks who bring so much value to our organization. 

Thank you to Aidan, Elijah, Fiona, Mallory, Skye, and Sydney for all the amazing work you have already done! 

— Kailey Radwan, Ann Arbor Film Festival Operations Manager

Elijah Hatcher-Kay

Elijah Hatcher-Kay - Marketing Assistant  

Elijah Hatcher-Kay is a film student at Emerson College in Boston, where he’ll graduate just in time to return to Ann Arbor for the 65th AAFF. His interests in film include screenwriting and directing, lighting, and experimental analog processes. When he’s not making a movie, you can find him doing theater, reading fantasy novels, or trying to find more time to get outside. 

What’s the first film you remember watching that left a lasting impression on you?

My dad and my cousins got me into Star Wars before I’d even seen it. I remember one Sunday when I was six years old my dad told me and my sister it was time to see a special movie, but he wouldn’t tell us what. It turned out to be the original Star Wars, and those were my first steps into a larger world of life-long love for the franchise. 

What is your favorite film you have ever seen in the Michigan Theater? 

In my senior year of high school, I saw Claire Denis’s “Beau Travail” the night I got back from an overseas trip. I was super jet-lagged and had no idea what to expect, and once the movie began I thought I had walked into a fever dream. But it stuck with me, and through many subsequent viewings it’s become one of my favorite films of all time! 

If someone were to visit Ann Arbor for the film festival, what is something they should make sure to do in town? 

It might be a bit muddy in March, but I always make sure anyone in town goes to UM’s Nichols Arboretum, which is like a museum where all the exhibits are beautiful trees - plus it’s a great place to see the river! You should also get the Spicy California Roll at Slurping Turtle right across from the Michigan Theater. 

Sydney Sielaff

Sydney Sielaff - Event Production Assistant 

Sydney is a senior at the University of Michigan majoring in Film, Television, and Media with a Screenwriting sub-major. She is excited to graduate in the spring and use all that she has learned to uplift individuals and communities through film and written word.

What aspect of the 65th AAFF are you most excited to be a part of or most looking forward to?

I am excited to look behind the scenes at how such a respected and unique film festival operates successfully year after year. It's incredible! I am also excited to be a part of such a kind and diverse community of artists and film lovers.

What genre and style would a film about your life be?

A film about my life would probably be a slice-of-life comedy. I'm a rather chill individual, so this film would likely have nothing to follow besides my daily life and various interactions, but laughter is always the best part of my day.

If someone were to visit Ann Arbor for the film festival, what is something they should make sure to do in town? 

Eat lots of food! Blue Nile is a great spot for dinner, and then head to Milk & Froth for ice cream after. 

Mallory Ensing

Mallory Ensing - Communications Assistant  

From Portland, Oregon, Mallory is a sophomore at the University of Michigan studying Communication & Media and Film, Television, & Media. She is passionate about storytelling through film, fashion, and creative communications. Outside of classes, you can find Mallory serving on student government, singing with her a cappella group, thrifting for vintage finds, or exploring Ann Arbor with a camera in one hand and a coffee in the other. 

What aspect of the 65th AAFF are you most excited to be a part of or most looking forward to?

I am the most excited to become more involved in the Ann Arbor creative community and connect with people who are also passionate about film. I’m looking forward to seeing the different perspectives that come together through the festival, and to help be a part of the team that allows filmmakers to share their work. 

What’s the first film you remember watching that left a lasting impression on you?

The first film that left a lasting impression on me would have to be Bride Wars, starring Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson. My sisters and I watched it probably 100 times growing up, so I associate it with many fun memories.

What genre and style would a film about your life be?

A film about my life would be an early 2000s rom-com meets indie coming-of-age film. I picture myself as a slightly chaotic, overly ambitious journalist navigating her twenties in New York City, with a tiny apartment, an overflowing closet, and a hilarious best friend who is always by my side. Think city montages, colorful outfits, a nostalgic soundtrack, and the overwhelming feeling that I’m still figuring it all out. 

What is your favorite film you have ever seen in the Michigan Theater? 

Not necessarily a specific film, but rather a specific experience I had at the Michigan Theater. I attended one of the craft nights last year, where they played Mamma Mia and everyone brought a crafty project to work on. It was such a heartwarming environment! 

If someone were to visit Ann Arbor for the film festival, what is something they should make sure to do in town? 

If someone were to visit Ann Arbor for the film festival, I would definitely recommend that they go to the Kerrytown Farmer’s Market. Kerrytown is such a vibrant, community-driven part of Ann Arbor, and there is always incredible food and art offered by the vendors at the weekly market on Saturdays. 

-- Written by Mallory Ensing, Communications Intern for the 65th AAFF