Where to start
The Outsiders
2 versions · originally a book, 1967
S. E. Hinton’s seminal work captures the raw, volatile friction between working-class Greasers and privileged Socs in 1960s Oklahoma.
✦ Most fans start here
The Outsiders (1967)
The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Outsiders
S. E. Hinton · Book · 1967
The Outsiders (1967) provides the definitive, unfiltered voice of Ponyboy Curtis. The novel goes deeper into the internal psychology of the Greasers, making it essential for readers seeking the original narrative.

1983 film
The Outsiders
Francis Ford Coppola · Film · 1983
The Outsiders (1983) offers Francis Ford Coppola’s atmospheric visual interpretation of the rivalry. This film captures the tense, cinematic stakes of the class conflict, perfect for viewers who prefer visceral, stylistic storytelling.
Common questions
Should I read The Outsiders book before watching the 1983 movie?
Reading The Outsiders book before watching the 1983 movie is recommended. The original 1967 novel provides the foundational narrative and character depth that the film adaptation translates to the screen. Experiencing the source material first allows for a deeper appreciation of the creative choices made in the movie.
Is The Outsiders movie a direct adaptation of the 1967 book?
Yes, the 1983 film is a direct adaptation of The Outsiders book published in 1967. The movie follows the narrative established in the novel, bringing the story of the Greasers and the Socs to the screen while maintaining the core themes and plot points written by the original author.
How long is the 1983 film version of The Outsiders?
The 1983 movie adaptation of The Outsiders has a runtime of approximately 91 minutes. This film condenses the events of the 1967 novel into a feature-length format, focusing on the primary conflicts and character arcs presented in the original text written by S.E. Hinton.
What is the release order of The Outsiders book and movie?
The Outsiders book was released first in 1967. The film adaptation of The Outsiders followed later, with its theatrical release occurring in 1983. The book serves as the primary source material for the film, establishing the setting and characters long before the movie adaptation was produced.