Best Friends

The story unfolds in a contemporary early-1980s setting, reflecting the era's social norms and Hollywood sensibilities. The cross-country trip and family gatherings showcase a time when appearances and private lives often collided under public scrutiny. The period shapes the humor, anxieties, and relationship dynamics at the heart of the plot.

The action begins in Los Angeles where the marriage is formalized, then follows a cross-country train journey to inform family back East. The first stop in Buffalo, New York brings the couple into a brutal winter and into Paula's traditional parents' world. They continue to Virginia to visit Richard's parents in a high-rise condo, exposing stark contrasts between urban megastructures and intimate domestic spaces.

💍 Marriage

Paula and Richard rush into marriage to satisfy personal and professional pressures, revealing how love and timing clash with tradition. The union is tested by public scrutiny, family expectations, and the fear of giving up independence. The film uses humor to explore whether commitment can coexist with personal autonomy, and whether appearances can hide underlying doubts.

🎭 Appearances

Family gatherings force the couple to perform happiness while their relationship frays beneath the surface. The insistence on traditional norms and social rituals underscores the pressure to maintain a perfect image. The wedding and family interactions highlight how public persona can mask private discontent.

🧠 Mental health

Paula's panic attacks and reliance on Valium illustrate how stress and social pressure impact a relationship. The film blends humor with moments of vulnerability to examine anxiety and coping mechanisms. In the end, honesty and dialogue become central to navigating their future.