Different for Girls

In secondary school, Paul Prentice defends Karl Foyle from violent classmates who taunted him for being effeminate. Paul stands up for Karl, shielding him from attacks and earning his loyalty and trust. That early bond foreshadows the later, more complicated relationship they will navigate.

Years after their school days, Paul, a motorcycle courier, collides with the cab Karl is riding in—now Kim after gender transition. He is surprised to recognize the person inside and they begin to reconnect. The reunion rekindles the old affection, though their lives have diverged.

Paul asks Kim out to re-establish their friendship. Their first date goes badly, and Kim assumes Paul is nervous about being seen with her. The awkward start signals that their relationship will require adjustment and empathy.

Paul brings flowers to Kim at her workplace, where she writes verses for a greeting card company. The thoughtful gesture helps break the tension from their first date and leads to another outing.

Their second date goes better and they end up back at Paul's place listening to music. They realize there is a deeper pull between them.

Over the next weeks, they continue to spend time together, and Paul teaches Kim how to ride a motorcycle. The lesson brings them closer and adds playfulness to their relationship.

Their next dinner at Kim's place is disastrous; Paul drinks too much and ends up in the courtyard outside her apartment, exposing himself. The scene sets off a cascade of consequences for both of them.

In the police van, a crude officer makes remarks about Kim and places his hand under her skirt, and Paul intervenes, getting beaten by the officer. The incident amplifies the miscarriage of justice they face.

At the police station, Paul is charged with assaulting the officer while Kim, terrified, remains silent and eventually flees to her sister's home. The night marks the start of their separate struggles against the system.

During the trial, Kim gathers her courage and testifies on Paul's behalf. Paul is convicted but receives only a token fine, a muted vindication amid the chaos.

A reporter at the courthouse tries to buy their story, but Paul and Kim refuse to sensationalize their lives.

After refusing to sell their story, they return to Kim's place, realizing they are sexually as well as emotionally compatible, and they make love.

Desperate for money after his motorcycle is repossessed, Paul sells Kim's and his story to a London tabloid.

The tabloid story is published; Kim fears she will be fired from the greeting-card company, but her boss stands behind her.

The film ends with Kim and Paul living together, and it is revealed that Kim suggested selling the story.