I have read all the postings about Pink Flamingo on IMDB.com and have drawn some conclusions. I saw the film when it came out in Baltimore in 1972 and have seen it two times since. I consider it brilliant. And, I have seen all of John Waters' movies since (with the exception of Cecil B. Demented). Here are my thoughts on the comments on Pink Flamingos:

People who say they saw the movie and were shocked such a movie was made in the more "innocent" time of 1972 seem to think that culture was way square back then. They are dead wrong. The times were so rebellious in 1972 they will probably never be repeated.

A lot of posters say things like, "I liked it, but you probably won't." Or things like, "I can accept this movie but most people are too square." These people misunderstand Americans. I'll wager most Americans would find Pink Flamingos funny. To think otherwise is to reveal how you have been brainwashed over how Americans think. This underground movie is an official alternative hit. Not for all, for sure, but for many more than you might think.

A lot of the criticism of Pink Flamingos focuses on things like production values. That's ridiculous: It's meant to be a cheapie.

A lot of the critics seem to think the actors in this film were strangers to each other. Waters and his crew were all a circle of friends.

If you are a Baltimorean, Waters' narration is priceless. This is the true Baltimore accent.

Some think Waters set out to write a shocking movie. He has said as much. But I believe the truth is that Waters made a movie to amuse himself.