I saw this movie in our school auditorium, as a high school classroom requirement back in the 1980's. I remember the girls crying, while a few of my male classmates sat quietly; perhaps being able to quickly identify themselves to one or more of the characters. The movie may not have interpreted the true spirit of the book, but I do think Stanley Kramer did as best a job he could in evoking both the struggles of male adolescence and the cultural patterns of the American family in the 1970's. There were many sobering messages despite the redundant metaphors throughout the film. Now, I am more interested in the "Where Are They Now" aspect of the film when I recently came across this title. I've found very little information on any of the main characters, with the exception of Bill Mummy. Also was saddened to hear about the death of Barry Robins (Cotton) back in 1986.