Different for Girls

Different for Girls

Year: 1996

Runtime: 97 mins

Language: English

Director: Richard Spence

ComedyRelationship comedyMoving relationship storiesEmotional LGBTQ relationshipsEmotional teen coming-of-age stories

When Paul and Kim’s cars crash, a spark of attraction ignites between them. Paul is immediately drawn to Kim’s beauty, unaware that they shared a childhood bond at a Catholic boys’ school. Years earlier, Kim was known as Karl before transitioning, adding a surprising layer to their reunion.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Different for Girls (1996)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Different for Girls (1996). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

London, England

The story unfolds primarily in urban London, with scenes across streets, workplaces, and public spaces such as a police station and courthouse. The city provides a contemporary backdrop that frames issues of gender, reputation, and relationships. From motorcycle courier routes to office environments, the setting adds a recognisable real-world texture to the narrative.

🏙️ London 👥 Relationships 🎬 Film setting

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 18:55

Main Characters – Different for Girls (1996)

Meet the key characters of Different for Girls (1996), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Prentice (Rupert Graves)

A loyal courier who once protected Karl from torment and now reconnects with Kim as an adult. He is impulsive and emotionally driven, capable of reckless mistakes, yet shows vulnerability and a genuine capacity for love. His pursuit of money and security leads to trouble, but his bond with Kim deepens as they confront prejudice and the consequences of their choices.

🧭 Loyal 🗣️ Complicated ❤️ Romantic

Karl / Kim Foyle (Steven Mackintosh)

Formerly Karl, a classmate who faced bullying for being effeminate, who has undergone gender transition to become Kim. She is resilient, principled, and brave, choosing to testify for Paul even under pressure. Her relationship with Paul challenges societal norms and evolves into a lasting partnership.

🏳️‍⚧️ Trans identity ❤️ Courageous 🎭 Complex

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 18:55

Major Themes – Different for Girls (1996)

Explore the central themes of Different for Girls (1996), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏳️‍⚧️ Identity and Acceptance

The film follows Karl's transition to Kim, exploring how gender identity is perceived and treated by those around her. Paul initially struggles to understand transgender issues, highlighting the social discomfort many face. Kim's experience shows resilience as she asserts her identity in the face of prejudice and misperception. The narrative moves toward acceptance, empathy, and a deeper bond that transcends gendered expectations.

💞 Love and Connection

Paul and Kim's relationship evolves from tentative reacquaintance to a deep emotional and physical bond. They navigate miscommunications, social scrutiny, and personal differences, learning to trust and support each other. Their bond endures despite obstacles, culminating in a shared life together. The film emphasizes honesty and mutual respect as foundations of love.

🗞️ Media and Reputation

Paul and Kim's decision to sell their story to a London tabloid exposes the sensationalism of the media and its impact on personal lives. The press scrutiny threatens their jobs and privacy, forcing them to weigh what to reveal. The media's intrusion tests loyalty and resilience, shaping how they are perceived publicly. The storyline shows how personal narratives can be manipulated by the media while the characters try to preserve agency.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 18:55

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Unlock the Full Story of Different for Girls

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Different for Girls Summary

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Different for Girls Summary

Different for Girls Timeline

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Different for Girls Timeline

Different for Girls Spoiler-Free Summary

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Different for Girls Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Different for Girls

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Different for Girls: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Different for Girls

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