That night is, without a doubt, a classic coming-of-age film, as well as a classic 50s story of romance, forbidden love, and (long island) suburban blissful ignorance. But the book is better. Alice McDermott's masterpiece (in her own right) is even more an unforgettable tale than this. For all those who claim that this is their favorite film, or even a great film: I beg you to read the book that spawned it.