Eliza D's 'The Man in the Moon' - Criminally Underrated?

Okay, so I've been diving deep into directors I've somehow missed and last week I watched 'The Man in the Moon' simply because ELIZA DUSHKU (!!!) is in it and it was her debut. I know, I know, not a great reason. But, MAN, I was honestly blown away? I can't believe I'd never even heard of this movie before. I am so MAD that I went through life not knowing that Eliza Dushku was in this movie as a kid, and even crazier-- Reese Witherspoon BEFORE she was the powerhouse she is now! Here's my theory: This movie is basically a lost Linklater film. Think about it: coming-of-age, super natural performances, a focus on the messiness of real life instead of Hollywood gloss. It felt SO much like 'Dazed and Confused' or 'Boyhood', just... earlier and set in Louisiana. Could this be because the Cinematographer, Freddie Francis, also did 'Glory'? Or is it because I can see some of the same themes of exploring the human heart when tragedy enters, which can also be seen in 'Paris, Texas' (Robby Mueller)? I read some other reviews and the consensus seems to be that its 'slow' and I guess I see that. But to me, the pacing is the point. It lets you soak in the atmosphere, the characters, the feeling of those fleeting summer days. It really shows the heart of living in a rural setting. Plus, as much as I love Reese Witherspoon, I can't help but feel that it's Emily Warfield who anchors the whole film. Her performance as Dani is heartbreaking and real. It really is tragic what happens to her, and Eliza Dushku's character did a great job of portraying the little stepsister. Even if it's not quite perfect, I REALLY think more people need to see this. Anyone else seen this one? What were your thoughts? Am I crazy for seeing Linklater-esque vibes, or am I onto something?