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The fact that Sam and Pilar were half siblings was a CRITICAL element to the plot. Sam's resentment towards his father is rooted in the fact that his Dad permanently separated Sam and Pilar after they were caught in the back seat at the drive in. We immediately think it is because, like others in Rio County, Buddy is a racist. At the very end of the movie the real reason Sam's Dad was so angry to catch the two young lovers rounding third base is revealed, illustratating how easy it is to form the wrong opinion of someone, especially when that someone is living a secret life.
I loved the movie and think Sayles is one of the best writer/directors out there, right up there with the Coen brothers. The fact the Coen's wife, Frances McDormand was in this movie makes me think that these heavyweights actually hang out together!
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