Veteran Japanesemovie executive Isamu Nakajima died last week (Aug 7) in Tokyo at the age of71. He was vice president of sales for Buena Vista International Japan (BVIJ)at the time of his death.

Nakajima-san wasconsidered one of Japan's top distribution executives, respected byexhibitors and admired by competitors. He began his career over 40 years ago atEihai Corporation and then moved to Chuou Corporation (now Toho-TowaCorporation) before joining BVI shortly after its inception in Jan 1993. Under his leadership, BVIJ has enjoyedhits such as Armageddon,Pearl Harbor and MonstersInc.

He is survivedby his wife Yoshiko Nakajima, one son, one daughter and two grandchildren.