I have to agree... I am sure it felt more authentic or "cutting edge" back in 1984 using punks instead of actors, but that hasn't aged well. overall it is a decent movie for what it is and it did have a bit cult following back in the day...

It's a bit of a cheesy melodrama. I often felt like I was watching an after-school special... It doesn't help its case that there aren't many likeable characters at all. Sure it's a window and commentary into the counter culture, but we've had soo many, frankly better versions, that I just don't see it's importance. Maybe it's because I didn't grow up with it. It DOES have an authentic punk attitude just in its lo-fi quality, and that's appreciated. Strong bookends though.