The main theme of the movie was parental abandonment, primarily the effect it has on those who have been abandoned. No doubt it was over the top, sometimes hilariously so, but it clearly showed the pent-up anger, resentment, and cynicism of those abandoned. It also illustratea a type who irresponsibility abandons. The great twist in this one was having the mother abandon. The movie cut to the chase. A tedious five part mini series wasn't needed.