Good Morning

About Good Morning

"Good Morning" (1959) is a Japanese film directed by Yasujirō Ozu. The film portrays a lighthearted story of two young brothers who decide to remain silent after being scolded by their parents for requesting a television set. Their protest sparks a series of misunderstandings in their Tokyo suburban community. Intertwining humor and satire, "Good Morning" delves into the traditional Japanese society and its conflicts with modernity.

Making / Production

"Good Morning" was produced by Shochiku, a prominent film studio in Japan. The director, Yasujirō Ozu, filled the film with subtle critiques of the modern lifestyle encroaching Japan, using his iconic low camera placement and pillow shots to paint an intimate picture of post-war suburbia.

Actors

• Kōji Shitara as Minoru Hayashi: Played the role of the younger brother who starts the silent protest. His performance exudes innocent courage.
• Masahiko Shimazu as Isamu Hayashi: He skillfully portrays the elder brother, capturing a mix of leadership and vulnerability.
• Chishū Ryū as Mr. Hayashi: He depicts the stern yet loving father, struggling to balance between traditions and the new generation's values.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is a remake of Ozu's own silent film "I Was Born, But..." (1932), adopting the same themes but with comedy and ironical nuances.
• Despite the movie's comical elements, it subtly comments on the swift westernization of the Japanese society post the Second World War.

Awards

The film, despite its cultural significance and critical acclaim, didn’t win any major film awards. However, it continues to be recognized as a classic in Japanese cinema and Ozu's filmography.

Quotes

• "We've got to talk or people think we're dumb."
• "Don't call it a dump, it demeans home."

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's soundtrack, composed by Toshiro Mayuzumi, complements the tone of the film, blending traditional Japanese music with Western influences.