i saw this movie on tv a a pre teen . it take place well before i be bear and i have never be to california . but even today decade later the movie have an incredible tone that have universal appeal . on one level and it appeal to american ( and canadian ) ideal of a simple time represent it take place just shortly before jfk be assassinate and american pop culture go out the window in a mayhem of drug and acid rock and and bizarre envelope ripping behaviour and lifestyle . on another level and if you have be a teenager and you will be able to relate to this movie . the movie be somehow even to u in canada hundred of mile away in a different climate and culture and and a different era it be somehow our last night of summer too . what more can i say . brilliantly shoot with the hand hold camera at time for a suggestion of reality . an incredible film with classic and universal theme and character . absolutely love it .