On the arthouse side, directors like Hirokazu Kore-eda ( Shoplifters ) and the late Ryusuke Hamaguchi ( Drive My Car ) continue to win Oscars and Cannes awards. Their films are slow, observational, and focused on the ashi (the "foot" or connective tissue of silence between dialogue). This minimalist style is the antithesis of the loud variety show, proving Japan can master both extremes.