The film is slightly different in contrast with the book of the same name: Thomas only has one brother (Kenneth) in the film when in the book, he had twin brothers (Billy and Buster); the setting of the film is obviously set in modern times (probably for budget constraints), when in the book it took place in the late-sixties; and certain scenes - straight out of the novel - are rearranged in the film to transpire differently rather than just happen all at once. Aside from these minor differences, the film does follow the novel closely.