Have you seen the TV version that had a different beginning with Cleon talking to the whole gang?
I haven't, but I suspect that it is on the Ultimate DVD (the DVD I got from Amazon was the regular, no-extras one for a few quid, but I may still shell out for the other one). Wasn't sure about getting the Ultimate DVD version as there are those unnecessary comic inserts in the film that were added by Walter Hill, but on the other hand, there are all the featurettes.
I didn't like the comic inserts either.
The interviews are worth watching.
Most odd looking at some of the actors now. The interviews and backstory are certainly compulsory viewing.
1979 was the year of the youth subculture movie...we had Scum and Quadrophenia, the U.S. had The Warriors and The Wanderers...