There's a seriously authentic teen vibe at work here--we really feel the setting, both in the place (sleepy Miami suburbs) and in the family situations (concerned parents who don't have a clue). The interaction is startlingly realistic--although perhaps the teens are a bit too wild sexually, it's not beyond the realms of possibility. There are heavy shades of Boys Don't Cry as the story gets more and more intense, leading to the tragic true conclusion. As it progresses we get a bit frustrated at the blind stupidity of these teens--surely they must have a cue what they are planning; they're not stupid! And the adults (and Clark himself) are somewhat preachy at the end. But the point needs to be made. And parents should see this film, no matter how difficult it is to watch.

very strong themes and situations, language, violence, drugs

5.Nov.01 lff