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The foundation of Japanese performance art lies in Noh (a slow, masked dance-drama), Bunraku (puppet theater), and Kabuki (known for its elaborate makeup and dramatic action). Kabuki, originating in the early 17th century, is particularly influential. Its emphasis on striking poses ( mie ), stylized violence, and androgynous beauty codes directly influences modern manga paneling and action choreography in anime. Anime and manga are two of Japan's most popular forms of entertainment, with a massive following worldwide. Some notable anime and manga series include: Following WWII, Japan underwent a cultural renaissance. The film industry, dominated by studios like Toho and Toei, gave the world Seven Samurai (1954) and Godzilla (1954). Simultaneously, the rise of consumer electronics (Sony, Panasonic) turned television and karaoke machines into domestic rituals. Karaoke—literally "empty orchestra"—revolutionized leisure, transforming passive listening into participatory entertainment, a concept that underpins modern idol culture where fans feel they "co-create" the star. |