I think it's actually an under-rated film. I found it to be an excellent film, but very long. I couldn't watch it all in one sitting, not because I was bored, but because I have a life outside the TV.

As far as Max goes, I think that's part of the mystery at the end...but then again, I always assumed he did jump into the truck...

And the rape scene? I can't remember all the details since I haven't seen it in awhile, but if I recall, I think it's a culmination of Noodles feelings for her and the frustration and such turning into a sickening display of perversion. But I didn't particularly hate the character, it just made me remember this movie is about gangsters.