Boys Don't Cry

Boys Don't Cry

Year: 1999

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Kimberly Peirce

DramaRomanceCrime

In a small town in Nebraska, Brandon Teena, a young transgender man, seeks love and acceptance. He creates a false identity to connect with others, but his secret threatens to be revealed, jeopardizing his relationships and safety. As he navigates the challenges of small-town life and confronts prejudice, Brandon's struggle becomes a desperate fight for survival and the right to be himself.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Boys Don't Cry (1999)

Trace every key event in Boys Don't Cry (1999) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Brandon's Arrival

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.

2

A Night at the Rink

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.

Skating Rink
3

Conflict with Local Men

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.

Lonny's Trailer
4

Lonny's Concern

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.

Lonny's Trailer
5

Brandon's Bar Encounter

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.

Local Bar
6

New Connections

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.

Falls City, Nebraska
7

Falling for Lana

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.

Falls City
8

Life's Complications

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.

9

The Gas Station Incident

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.

Gas Station
10

Complex Relationships

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.

11

Intimate Moments

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.

Lana's Workplace
12

Desperation and Theft

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.

13

Confrontation and Reveals

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.

Falls City Prison
14

Candace's Discovery

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.

15

Tragic Finale

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.

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 01:52

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Boys Don't Cry Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Boys Don't Cry, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Boys Don't Cry Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Boys Don't Cry

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Boys Don't Cry

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