Appropriate Behavior

Shirin, a young woman living in Brooklyn, experiences a painful breakup with her girlfriend, Maxine. This event disrupts her life significantly, leading her to become both homeless and unemployed, prompting a major change in her circumstances.

After her breakup, Shirin seeks solace in the company of her friend Crystal, who encourages her to find new living arrangements. Shirin decides to move in with a group of unconventional roommates, marking the beginning of her journey toward self-discovery.

Embracing her new circumstances, Shirin starts teaching the art of filmmaking to a group of enthusiastic five-year-olds in Park Slope. This job not only helps her regain her footing but also allows her to reconnect with her creative passions.

As Shirin adjusts to her new life, her affluent Persian immigrant parents express confusion and concern over her sudden living situation. They remain unaware of Shirin's bisexuality and her relationship with a woman, highlighting the traditional values that shape their perspectives.

In an effort to regain some control over her life, Shirin tries to reach out to Maxine, who has moved on and started a new relationship with Tibet. This attempt to reconnect is fraught with emotions as Shirin grapples with her feelings of loss and longing.

Determined to live her truth, Shirin courageously comes out to her brother, who responds with overwhelming support. This moment of acceptance is pivotal for Shirin, reinforcing her resilience and willingness to embrace her identity openly.

Shirin plans to confront her mother about her sexuality, acknowledging the importance of this conversation for her personal growth. While on a subway ride, she confides in Crystal about her intentions, revealing her deeper struggles with family acceptance.

During her subway commute, fate intervenes as Shirin spots Maxine on the platform. Their unexpected encounter is filled with unspoken possibilities, giving Shirin a glimmer of hope amidst her chaotic life.

As Shirin processes her feelings, she learns that Maxine has moved on and is now in a relationship with Tibet, a fellow teacher. This revelation adds complexity to Shirin’s emotions and underscores the challenges of letting go.

Shirin's journey involves navigating her relationships with her roommates and her students, as well as the dynamics of her previous romance. Each interaction enriches her understanding of connection and community in her life.

Throughout her experiences, Shirin embarks on a path of inner reflection, contemplating her desires, aspirations, and the realities of her identity. This period of introspection is crucial for her healing and future endeavors.

As time passes, Shirin finds strength in her independence, learning to advocate for herself and express her true self. Her journey symbolizes a powerful statement about finding one's place in the world while balancing personal and cultural expectations.

Amidst the complexities, Shirin's friendship with Crystal serves as a source of support and motivation. This connection helps Shirin solidify her identity and discover empowerment in the face of adversity.

As Shirin adapts to her new life and teaching role, she embarks on what feels like a fresh start. Her journey exemplifies the power of resilience and the importance of nurturing relationships that support her authentic self.

By the film's conclusion, Shirin has made significant strides towards finding peace with her past and paving a way toward a hopeful future. The timeline of her struggles and growth reflects her journey of self-discovery and acceptance.