Boys Don't Cry

The film opens with Brandon Teena driving through the night with his cousin Lonny. They are headed to a skating rink, where Lonny warns Brandon to avoid any reckless behavior.

Brandon arrives at the skating rink and is captivated by the atmosphere. He meets a girl and shares a kiss outside her home, promising to ensure her safety before leaving.

As Brandon interacts with the girl, a group of young men begins to pursue him, hurling insults and threats. Fearing for his safety, he seeks refuge in Lonny's trailer.

Inside the trailer, Brandon confides in Lonny about his identity as a girl who wants to live as a boy. Lonny expresses concern for Brandon's safety and suggests he find a different place to stay.

Brandon visits a bar where he meets Candace and flirts with her. A confrontation occurs when a large man harasses Candace, leading Brandon to bravely intervene, resulting in a brawl.

After the bar incident, Brandon feels supported and begins to bond with John Lotter and Nissen. He eventually relocates to Falls City, where he stays with Candace, who is infatuated with him.

While getting to know Candace, Brandon develops a strong attraction to Lana Tisdel after watching her sing karaoke. Initially indifferent, Lana becomes intrigued by Brandon.

Brandon enjoys his new friendships but also faces the burden of his unresolved issues, including a missed court date. He carries a court summons revealing his true name, Teena Brandon.

In a moment of desperation, Brandon tries to steal tampons at a gas station while concealing his identity from Lana. This humorous yet tense moment signifies the lengths he goes to maintain his facade.

The dynamics between Brandon, Lotter, and Lana become increasingly complex. Lotter's behavior swings between care and aggression towards Brandon, creating a complicated brotherly bond.

Brandon and Lana's relationship deepens, culminating in a passionate encounter during one of Lana's work breaks. This moment cements their growing affection amidst the backdrop of Brandon's struggles.

Facing mounting legal troubles, Brandon makes a desperate decision to steal Candace's check to pay off his fines. This act is a clear reflection of his spiraling situation and the pressures he endures.

Brandon is captured and placed in the women's section of a local prison. This leads to devastating revelations about his true identity and the heartbreaking reactions from those around him.

Amidst the chaos, Candace uncovers evidence of Brandon's true identity, leading to emotional turmoil as she confides her findings in Lotter and Nissen. The environment grows tense as secrets unravel.

The film concludes in tragedy when Nissen and Lotter, angered by Brandon's secret, commit violent acts against him. Brandon’s fate culminates in a heart-wrenching goodbye as Lana reads his letter after his untimely death.