The Japanese entertainment industry is reacting to the massive disaster caused by the March 11 earthquake much the way it reacts to any major national tragedy — by observing jishuku (self-restraint).
In practice, this means putting public service, at least temporarily, ahead of profit. All five national TV networks, as well as public broadcaster NHK, turned over their entire schedules to quake-related coverage soon after the disaster struck. Regular programming, as well as commercial breaks, are gradually returning, but many shows are still on hold as broadcasters continue to monitor the aftermath.
Also since Friday there has been a wholesale cancellation of movie events, from the butai aisatsu (stage greetings) by stars and directors of newly released films that are a sacrosanct PR ritual, to concerts, plays, talk events and preview screenings of upcoming titles.