This year, the festival once again brought together film enthusiasts, filmmakers, and volunteers, offering a diverse selection of high-quality feature-length and short films.

Before the festival began, students attended a meeting, where they were assigned roles and placed in specific festival teams. Working in different teams allowed them to gain new knowledge, practical experiences and insight into the organisational process behind one of the biggest film events in Slovenia.

The festival brought together more than 75 volunteers, whose work made a significant contribution to its successful execution. In addition to film screenings, the festival also offered numerous accompanying activities, such as DJ sets, crochet workshops, yoga, and various social gatherings, all of which helped create a pleasant and relaxed festival atmosphere.

Throughout the festival, students also met occasionally at group meetings, where they shared their experiences, impressions, and new insights gained during their work.

They also summed up their experiences in a few thoughts:

Matej: “At this year’s Kino Otok, I helped set up festival venues. Throughout the day we had a lot of spare time, which we spent hanging out on the beach and swimming in the sea. Later in the evening, screenings of short films would start, followed by Q&As with the filmmakers. Some of them were volunteers. I discovered a new film format, and through conversations with the filmmakers, gained insight into the creative process behind the scenes.”

Kaja: “At the festival, I was placed on the PR and Press team, where I learned a great deal about communication, video creation and editing, and how various algorithms work on different social media platforms. It gave me the opportunity to gain new knowledge and practical experience in digital media. I had a truly wonderful time at the festival, met many new people, and made unforgettable memories. I’m especially grateful for the amazing team I got to work with.”

Veronika: “This year I had an unforgettable time, full of positive energy, new friendships, and great films. My work ranged from directing visitors to coordinating daily activities on-site. All of which made me realise that effective communication is the foundation of any successful project, since I constantly had to collaborate with the team and with visitors. The experience gave me a lot of confidence going forward.”

But as they say, all good things must come to an end. This year’s Kino Otok has also closed its chapter, and the students left the festival with smiles on their faces, new friendships, enriching experiences, and countless memories that will stay with them long after the festival’s conclusion.

Translated into English by: Matej Mrčun