Okinami

Synopsis

This film features a Japanese seaside ritual performed in honour of a marine deity, who is considered to hold the power to determine a safe and successful year of local fishing. This two-day event involves the carrying of large lantern floats by hundreds of people. Due to the ageing Okinami population, the settlement depends on outside volunteers to support the tradition. The film explores how social memory in Okinami is maintained and how a community is redefined through the combined and strenuous efforts – locals and outsiders – in ritual performance.