This is in the top 11 screenplays of all time.
Just an absolutely polished script that sculpts a perfect metaphoric character portrayal of father and son. The bookend ending is perfect as well, especially the way it is foreshadowed in the opening scene. A great depiction of redemption of the lead character, as well as an incredibly subtle portrayal of coming of age by Billy Zane. I'm really surprised this film has yet to have its resurgence. The sequels are one thing, but the original needs to be re-discovered and praised for it's refusal to compromise.
An absolutely superb film.