The writing depicts a mother who is amazingly wise to make the decision to NOT burden her sons with shame. She knows the shame she could pour on them will harm them, permanently, regardless of what actions they take. MINOR SPOILER....the boys have not been taught the story about jesus and the resurrection and the bible and Francisco's step mother pretends she doesn't know what resurrection means because it is not her place to tell them the story.The casting in the movie is beyond belief!!!! The acting is beyond belief!!!! The directing is beyond belief!!!! The music is beyond belief!!!! And....as for the 'boys to men'... the youngsters are magical in their portrayals and the sons as adults.....HOLY RAVIOLI!!!!!!!!!! New words would have to be invented to accurately describe the mens' unbelievable beauty and charisma and sexiness!!!!!!! (Is it possible to wear out a DVD?) I just discovered this movie, and I can fully imagine the controversy was also beyond belief, upon release. If you like this genre, this movie is unforgettable and incredibly well done. I want to talk about all of it in detail, but of course I wouldn't spoil it for anyone, but in case someone might want to discuss it, let's do it.