Boys on the Side

Struggling after a shattered relationship and disbanded band, Jane decides to leave the familiar streets of New York City. Her daring choice is a step toward healing and reclaiming her life, as she seeks out the sun-drenched allure of Los Angeles in hopes of new beginnings.

Jane answers a newspaper advertisement from Robin, a real estate agent who is also on a quest to travel across the country. Their initial uncertainty quickly turns into camaraderie when Jane's car gets towed, pushing her to hit the road alongside Robin.

As they journey westward, Jane and Robin take a break in Pittsburgh, where Jane reunites with her friend Holly. The reunion is fraught with tension, as Holly’s volatile situation with her abusive boyfriend, Nick, soon unfolds.

Jane, Robin, and Holly find themselves in a dangerous confrontation with Nick, who threatens their safety. In a moment of desperation, Holly uses a baseball bat to defend herself and her friends, showcasing their unity against violence.

After temporarily subduing Nick, they bind him to a chair with duct tape and blast music for hours. This act transforms a moment of fear into one of defiance, as they take a stand against his abusive behavior.

In a devastating turn of events, Nick escapes and suffers a fatal accident, ultimately leading to his death. The news triggers a whirlwind of emotions and discussions among Jane, Robin, and Holly about their involvement in what transpired.

Amidst the chaos, Holly reveals that she is pregnant and fears being implicated in Nick's death. This revelation catalyzes a collective determination among the three women to continue their journey to California, emphasizing the importance of support.

Upon arriving in Tucson, Robin collapses in a diner and is diagnosed with pneumonia, later confirmed as HIV. This life-altering diagnosis pawns the group into reevaluating their life choices and the relationships that bind them.

Following Robin's diagnosis, Jane and Holly decide to plant roots in Tucson. As they do so, Jane finds her footing with a singing gig, while Holly develops a romance with Abe, a local police officer, creating a new, supportive dynamic.

The trio's friendship leads them to plan a surprise birthday party for Jane, celebrated with gifts including a beautiful piano from Robin. This joyful occasion is tinged with the complexity of Robin’s growing feelings for Jane, setting the stage for future turmoil.

Jane inadvertently exposes Robin’s HIV status to a bartender at a bar, leading to a fallout between the friends. Tensions rise as Robin feels betrayed, and their once-close bond faces its greatest test.

Abe proposes to Holly, hopeful for a bright future together. Yet, Holly's lingering feelings for her abusive past become a devastating barrier, culminating in her arrest after Abe discovers her past connection to Nick.

Holly's legal troubles escalate as she faces charges relating to Nick's death, forcing Jane and Robin to follow her back to Pittsburgh. The journey leads to unexpected reconciliations amid the chaos of the courtroom drama.

In a poignant turning point, Holly accepts a plea deal for involuntary manslaughter, receiving a sentence that shakes the group to its core. The realities of the situation weigh heavily on all as they support each other through this dark chapter.

After many trials, Robin’s health declines rapidly due to AIDS, culminating in a heartbreaking moment where Jane and Robin reaffirm their love. Robin's subsequent death leaves a lasting impact, prompting Jane to venture to Los Angeles for a fresh start.