Is The Outsiders Based on a True Story? Plot, and Review
by A N Rahul | Updated Apr 27, 2023
Is The Outsiders Based on a True Story?
Are you a fan of coming-of-age dramas? Have you seen The Outsiders, Francis Ford Coppola's 1983 film adaptation of S.E. Hinton's novel? If not, you're missing out on a masterpiece that helped launch the careers of Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe, Patrick Swayze, and more. But what makes The Outsiders truly special is its authenticity.
You may not know this, but the novel and film were loosely based on real-life high school drama. Hinton herself based the story on the interactions between rival teen gangs in her town, whose hatred for each other was so intense they entered the school building by separate entrances to avoid daily tussles.
Knowing this, it's hardly surprising that The Outsiders feels so real and believable. It's not just a fictional story; it's grounded in reality. And by telling the story from the perspective of a "Greaser," the author and filmmaker were able to accurately capture the nuances and tensions of teenage life in a way that resonates with audiences to this day.
The Outsiders Plot
Follow the Curtis brothers, Ponyboy, Sodapop, and Darrel, as they navigate the harsh reality of life in 1965 Tulsa, Oklahoma, after losing their parents. The greasers, a group of underprivileged teens, find themselves constantly at odds with the affluent Socs. When Ponyboy and his friend Johnny get into trouble with the Socs, they are forced to flee town to avoid the consequences.
On the run, Ponyboy and Johnny face numerous challenges, including violence, abuse, and even death. But through it all, they learn valuable lessons about the true meaning of loyalty and sacrifice. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including the feisty Cherry Valance and the tough-as-nails Dallas.
With its gripping plot, vivid characters, and poignant themes, The Outsiders is a must-see movie for anyone who loves drama, action, and heartwarming moments. Whether you're a fan of the book or a newcomer to the story, you won't be able to resist the powerful emotions and unforgettable moments that make this movie a classic. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be moved by The Outsiders!
The Outsiders Review
It is based on a beloved novel for teenagers by S. E. Hinton and boasts a talented cast, including the young Matt Dillon, the movie falls flat due to director Francis Ford Coppola's over-stylized and contrived approach.
The movie follows the story of a group of greasers, living in 1950s Nebraska, who find themselves in a class war with the wealthy "soches." However, the thin narrative material and Coppola's fixation on a particular Hollywood sound stage look make it hard for the characters to breathe and move. Instead, they feel like pictures framed and hanging on the screen.
While the actors are convincing enough in their roles, they are not given enough to work with. Scenes seem to be killing time, and nothing that happens in the movie seems necessary. Even the great Matt Dillon, who played a three-dimensional character in "Tex," is required to do little more than standard "Rebel Without a Cause" behavior in this film.
The lack of life and spontaneity in the movie is a disappointment, especially coming from a director as talented as Coppola. The man who made "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now" should reserve his stylistic exercises for the rehearsal halls of his fancy and get back to making movies with substance and depth.
The Outsiders Summary
The movie starts with Ponyboy Curtis writing a story about his life for school. He spends an evening with his friends, including Dallas, a member of their Greaser gang. They meet two girls from the rival Soc gang, Cherry and Marcia, at a drive-in movie. After an argument with Dallas, Cherry becomes friends with Ponyboy.
On their way home, they are attacked by the Socs, including Bob, who Ponyboy later recognizes as the one who slashed his face. Johnny, one of Ponyboy's friends, saves him by stabbing Bob.
To avoid the consequences, Johnny and Ponyboy run away and hide in an abandoned church. Dallas helps them and brings a note from Ponyboy's brother. They return to find the church on fire, and Johnny gets severely burned while saving some children. The trio becomes local heroes, but Johnny dies in the hospital. Dallas runs away and is later killed by the police.
Ponyboy receives a letter from Johnny urging him to stay positive and "stay gold."
Is the Outsiders Based on a True Story - FAQs
Yes, the novel and film were loosely based on real-life high school drama that occurred in S.E. Hinton's town.
Tom Cruise, Rob Lowe, and Patrick Swayze are some of the actors that starred in the 1983 film adaptation of S.E. Hinton's novel.
The plot of The Outsiders follows the Curtis brothers, Ponyboy, Sodapop, and Darrel, as they navigate the harsh reality of life in 1965 Tulsa, Oklahoma, after losing their parents.
The Outsiders explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, violence, abuse, and class conflict between underprivileged "Greasers" and affluent "Socs".