when i be in 7th grade ( back in 1977 ) and i be ask to read the novel that this be base on a part of my english class study . i can remember be very touch by it and excite when a tv version come out a year later . kristy mcnichol be a popular tv actress when this film be produce and be already play a daughter in a dysfunctional family on the hit tv series family . it be clear that she have the range and ability to pull off this part . i recall her a be a bit stiff at time and but over all she do a good job . she carry the movie well . esther rolle be fantastic a the domestic who appear to be the only one in the household that seem to truly care for her . barbara barrie a the somewhat frightened and slightly neurotic mother be also good and a be young robin lively ( who would eventually appear a the black widow lana milford in twin peak ) a the sweet young sister who seem to be the focus of the parent affection . bruce davidson be also appropriately appeal a the german soldier of the titlethe best performance and however and belong to michael constantine . it be truly powerful and merit more recognition than it get at the time . the bitterness and coldness he express make the scene in which he appear difficult to watch and but make it much easy to understand the quiet desperation of the rejected daughter . constantine give everything the right intensity and seem to have a good understanding of the underlying psychological motivation . the film differs from the book only in some small way . it be wonderful and inspire to watch and and i hope that it get release again on to video or dvd .