Sparkling clear ocean, pure blue skies, a rainbow of flowers blooming under the gentle climate . . . it is with the aspiration for festivities true to this Okinawa that the Okinawa International Movie Festival comes into the world in March 2009.

This Festival brings together films, filmmakers, performers and lovers of film to Okinawa under the universal and borderless theme of “Laugh & Peace”. We feel certain that this will be a new kind of film festival, where participants will be full of smiles as they not only watch films, but also experience symposiums, workshops, panel discussions, comedy, music and other events. We also have established the Okinawa Contents Market, with presentations of high-quality content.

It is our wish not only that people expand their circle of friendships by talking with many others via a common love of laughter, but also that the Okinawa International Movie Festival will be the source of ever more laughter- and emotion-invoking content.

To our guests, and to the people of Okinawa and the directors, actors and others whose tremendous cooperation has made this Festival a reality, we offer our gratitude from the bottom of our hearts. We will strive to make the Okinawa International Movie Festival a festival loved by all. We ask that you please continue to grace us with your support.

Executive Vice President & Representative Director of YOSHIMOTO KOGYO CO., LTD