From the start, the film bowls you over with excitement and for those who can latch on, it's a nonstop ride.

Offering only hackneyed insights into the war, the film makes for stodgy drama. But Williams' manic monologues behind the mike are worth anybody's money.

Make no mistake about it: Mr. Williams's performance, though it's full of uproarious comedy, is the work of an accomplished actor. ''Good Morning, Vietnam'' is one man's tour de force.

This is a deceptively simple film. The comedic antics pull their audience into the work, but its treatment of the setting is remarkable and – I think – a lot braver than many of us released at the time.