Ohayo carries an unshowy, wry humour close to the surface throughout, and entertains just by offering privileged access to 1959 Japanese suburban society, and its houses, streets and bars. The little boys driving the drama are comic to watch and act wonderfully. Their hunger strike and fart games are presented matter-of-factly, almost obliquely, and the humour is not so much understated as unstated altogether.
The film also is apparently filmed at knee height. While most great cinematic breakthroughs pass me by without leaving a mark (so what if that was all one take?), this gives rise to a pleasingly Alice in Wonderland feel. More importantly, it puts you in with the boys in their scenes, and includes you in the dialogues between gossiping neighbours, and informal meals, which all take place seated on the floor.
The result is quirky and accessible, and easy to like even for those who are not lovers of abstruse cinema.
The film also is apparently filmed at knee height. While most great cinematic breakthroughs pass me by without leaving a mark (so what if that was all one take?), this gives rise to a pleasingly Alice in Wonderland feel. More importantly, it puts you in with the boys in their scenes, and includes you in the dialogues between gossiping neighbours, and informal meals, which all take place seated on the floor.
The result is quirky and accessible, and easy to like even for those who are not lovers of abstruse cinema.