The Outsiders (1983) Review in 2025
The Outsiders is a classic coming-of-age drama film set in the 1960s, based on the novel by S.E. Hinton. The movie follows a group of teenagers from different social classes as they navigate love, loyalty, and violence in a small Oklahoma town.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for teenagers and young adults, but parental discretion is advised due to some violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age dramas and classic 80s films. It's a powerful and emotional experience that will leave you feeling invested in the characters and their struggles.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around Ponyboy Curtis, a 14-year-old boy who gets into a fight with a group of Socs (short for Socials) and is rescued by his brothers, Dallas and Sodapop. As Ponyboy navigates his relationships with his brothers and friends, he becomes embroiled in a violent confrontation with the Socs, leading to a tragic outcome.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and relatable, exploring themes of social class, loyalty, and violence in a small Oklahoma town. The plot is well-structured and easy to follow, with a clear narrative arc.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from C. Thomas Howell, Ralph Macchio, and Matt Dillon. The cast brings depth and nuance to their characters, making them feel real and relatable.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with distinct personalities and motivations. Ponyboy, the protagonist, is particularly well-portrayed, with a nuanced and empathetic performance by C. Thomas Howell.
direction9.00/10
Francis Ford Coppola's direction is masterful, capturing the spirit of the novel and bringing the characters to life. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of intense and quiet moments.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is visually appealing, with a mix of natural lighting and dramatic shadows. The camera work is often innovative, using point-of-view shots and close-ups to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Outsiders is a timeless classic that explores themes of social class, loyalty, and violence in a small Oklahoma town. The movie features a talented cast, masterful direction, and a well-structured plot.
Cons
The movie's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the violence and mature themes off-putting.
Notable Quotes
"I don't want to be a Soc. I don't want to be a Greaser. I just want to be me."
"Stay gold, Ponyboy. Stay gold."
"You're gonna have to choose between what you want and what you need."
