Japanese Stand-Up Comedy
Japanese stand-up comedy, known as manzai, features a comedic duo consisting of a boke (funny man) and a tsukkomi (straight man). The boke delivers absurd or silly remarks, while the tsukkomi responds with witty retorts, creating a dynamic interplay that relies on wordplay and puns.
Another popular form is kyōgen, which combines traditional theater with humor. Performers often use exaggerated expressions and physical comedy to entertain audiences. Both styles emphasize timing and cultural references, making them unique to Japan's rich comedic landscape.