Let me start by saying this: Kids isn't your typical coming-of-age movie. It's a brutal, unflinching look at teenage recklessness in 90s New York that still manages to shock nearly 30 years later.

The film follows Telly, a HIV-positive teen who's determined to deflower as many virgins as possible, completely unaware (or uncaring) of the consequences. The parallel storyline of Jenny discovering she's contracted HIV from him adds a layer of tragic urgency.

What struck me most was how authentic it feels. The dialogue sounds exactly like overheard locker room talk - crude, boastful, and painfully real. The scenes of kids breaking into pools and spray-fighting capture that restless summer energy perfectly.

Visually, it's a time capsule of pre-gentrification NYC. Peeling brownstone walls covered in graffiti serve as the backdrop for these kids' misadventures. Clark's direction makes you feel like you're right there with them.

Now for the DVD specifics: This German import has caused some playback issues for US customers. Mine worked fine on my region-free player, but be warned - standard US DVD players might reject it. The picture quality is decent considering the film's low-budget origins, though don't expect 4K remastering here.

The performances are startlingly good for such young actors. Chloe Sevigny and Rosario Dawson shine in early roles that hint at their future stardom. The supporting cast of real NYC teens adds to the documentary-like feel.

Content-wise, this isn't for the faint-hearted. There are graphic sexual situations (including implied assault), rampant drug use, and language that would make a sailor blush. But that rawness is precisely what makes it so powerful.

Extras are minimal - just some filmographies - but honestly, the main feature is impactful enough on its own. If you're interested in controversial cinema or want to understand 90s youth culture beyond the sanitized version, this is essential viewing.