Right before this came out, I went through a boyfriend's suicide. The movie really hit home. It really explains the feelings that those left behind feel. Sure, as I look back it is corny in the 80's way but the questions everyone had and the wonder of why is so true for the survivors.
The one thing the movie focused on is really the most important issue. Once the person has committed the suicide, they are no longer the problem. It is the recovery and coping of the survivors. A group of kids with no one to talk to or go to. Very much like it is today, 16 years later.
I would suggest that if anyone knows of someone that is thinking of suicide, make them watch the movie. Show them what their friends and family will feel once they are gone. It may be a movie but it is very close to the real life feelings we survivors feel when we lose someone we love and don't know why and feel guilt because couldn't stop it. Remember, suicide is a permenant solution to a temporary problem.
Keenu Reeves really takes the emotion and makes it real. Anyone could have played the part but he put such a realistic feel to the sorrow and anger, I really can't see anyone else in the roll. The song is beautiful and I had it at one time on cassette, now if that doesn't date me then I don't know what will. The whole movie is represents a process and the actors/actresses did a very good job of portraying it to the viewer.
The scenes in Portland and the surrounding areas are a nice change to a sound stage. I think it brings a touch of reality because it doesn't take place in LA or New York. How many normal people live outside of those 2 cities? I would say a lot and this movie shows that problems exist in all walks of life.