I watched this film last night. Wasn't expecting much, especially considering its a Disney film produced by a company that is known for making Christian friendly movies (Walden media).
But you know what, it's a very honest coming of age story for the 21st century. I might even go as far to say that it might become, in years to come, this generation's 'Stand By Me'.
Even Mark Kermode, who was initially critical of the film, has come out in the podcast as saying that the film is actually quite good. His initial negativity was about a certain lost of a character..... Which he felt wasn't right for the film.