Japan's versatile veteran Koji Yakusho wins best actor at Cannes

a touching tale about a Tokyo toilet cleaner.

Koji Yakusho really is versatile (Tanpopo, Shall We Dance).

Something to celebrate

So why is there so much ham acting on TV in Japan? Is it demanded of them? Even that American actor (Charlotte Kate Fox) on NHK's Asadora, Massan, a few years ago seemed like she was told to overact.

Yakusho's versatility is on full display in "Cure" and "University of Laughs", my particular favorite two.

Awarded a bottle of cologne for his role in a movie about a toilet cleaner.

The film looks like a cinematic depiction of Japan's lost generation's lives. Might be worthwhile to see...

With a smile on my face, and a spring in my step, i Cheer at this news! We can see clearly Japan is successful at making movies.

Good for him.

Congratulations to Koji Yakusho.

Congratulations for him..

So cool! I will definitely go to see this movie!

So why is there so much ham acting on TV in Japan? Is it demanded of them? 

As I understand it, yes it is demanded. TV in Japan hasn't evolved in decades. You have to see independent films to see what Japanese can do on screen. A shame really.

All I can say is, a movie about a man who cleans toilets -- with no explosions, car chase scenes or shootouts -- doesn't stand a chance at the US box office.