Did this film influence Todd Solondz in 'Palindromes'

Interesting parallels between the scene in the ward where the children, on crutches, are lined up in ranks and singing a very touching song and the scene of the "Sunshine Family" in Palindromes where they perform a song routine. It is amazingly modern in that the song is being recorded and will be heard again, playing at Grant's house while he is "grooming" the young girl. Such a sad and cynical juxtaposition!