Given the current circumstances with the pandemic and the limitations it has necessitated, this year's Tokyo International Film Festival may take on a slightly different character than in previous years.

We would most like to emphasize the power of art and culture, especially film to enrich our daily lives even as we weather this pandemic. We hope you will come to the festival to enjoy cinema on the big screen with quality sound, and that the experience will provide a renewed sense of hope for the future. This year's TIFF will welcome as its ambassador actor Koji Yakusho, who is also the ambassador for the "Let's go to the cinema!" campaign. The festival will collaborate with "Let's go to the cinema!" on various events.

Needless to say, Japan is not the only country suffering from the effects of the pandemic. The Tokyo International Film Festival therefore wishes to further international solidarity through cinema. In June, TIFF showcased several of its films at the Global Film Festival, an online event that brought together many film festivals from around the world. Unfortunately, it will be difficult for TIFF to bring overseas guests to Japan this year. Still, we remain committed to international collaboration and will showcase excellent works from the Cannes, Venice, Berlin and Shanghai International Film Festivals.

More than anything, the pandemic has hugely impacted production, distribution and the manner in which we enjoy films. TIFF plans to hold symposiums and talk sessions that highlight these issues and consider the industry's future.

Now, more than ever, is a crucial time for cinema!

The Tokyo International Film Festival looks forward to your participation.