Good Morning (1959)

Set in the bustling outskirts of Tokyo, "Good Morning" captures the vibrant, daily lives of the Hayashi family and their neighbors in a closely-knit suburban housing complex. This film delves into the heart of a community, where gossip is a currency and every action sets off a ripple through the neighborhood. The story revolves around the adolescent Hayashi brothers, Minoru and Isamu, who share their lives with their parents and an aunt. The brothers, along with their friends Kôzô and Zennosuke, often gravitate toward the only house in the complex with a television set, sparking their desire to own one. However, the Hayashi parents resist, perceiving the television as a threat to societal values and a strain on their budget. A clash of generations lights the fuse of rebellion when the boys, determined to get a television, stage a "silence" strike against all adults. Their defiant silence amplifies the misunderstandings in the community, particularly among the housewives who are bewildered over some missing money. "Good Morning" is a charming exploration of the power of communication, or the lack thereof, in shaping our daily lives. Amidst the boys' silent protest, the film reveals the subtle interplay of small talk, rumors, and silent gestures as essential tools for navigating the nuances of a tight-knit community. As the silent revolution unfolds, it unknowingly brings two adults in the complex closer together. Will the boys' silence echo loud enough to get them what they want? Or will it amplify the chaos in their quaint neighborhood? This film is a compelling tapestry of humor, rebellion, and the intricate dynamics of a suburban Japanese community in the late '50s.

Good Morning is a comedy movie featuring Keiji Sada and directed by Yasujirō Ozu.

Good Morning is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV and it's also available on Criterion Channel, Max and Max Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy Good Morning on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.