I Believe in Unicorns

As a high school freshman from Berkeley, Davina embarks on an uncertain journey filled with the complexities of adolescence. The emotional toll of her mother's struggle with multiple sclerosis looms over her, shaping her identity and experience in high school.

On her 16th birthday, Davina celebrates with a modest gathering alongside her closest friend, Cassidy. The evening is marked by the thoughtful gift of a camera from Cassidy, which becomes an essential tool for Davina to capture the world around her.

During a picturesque picnic, Davina's eyes are drawn to Sterling, a rebellious punk who dominates the park's skate ramp. This chance encounter sparks an immediate attraction that intrigues and excites her.

After capturing moments of Sterling through her camera, the two share a brief yet impactful exchange. Sterling invites Davina to meet him at a nearby street corner, marking a pivotal point in her life as she decides to take a chance on newfound affection.

During their day together, Davina and Sterling engage in profound conversations, both expressing their desires to escape the limitations of their realities. This connection reveals the burdens they each carry, binding them closer in their shared journey of discovery.

The chemistry between Davina and Sterling ignites during a visit to his modest home in a challenging neighborhood. Their passion culminates in a significant and emotionally charged moment, shifting the dynamics of their budding relationship.

After their passionate encounter, Davina wakes up with mixed emotions, caught in the whirlwind of new love and the uncertainty of its longevity. Seeking solace, she confides in Cassidy about her feelings and experiences, highlighting her need for support.

In a bid to reconnect with Sterling, Davina attends a lively rave, hoping to reignite their spark. However, she faces the harsh reality of rejection when Sterling distances himself, leaving Davina heartbroken yet determined to move forward.

Despite the heartbreak, Sterling reaches out with an apology, leading to a chaotic yet passionate relationship. Together, they embark on a road trip intended to escape their struggles, signaling a new chapter filled with hope and uncertainty.

As the road trip progresses, Davina begins to see troubling parallels between Sterling and his abusive father, creating rifts in their relationship. The strain surfaces in fierce arguments over their shared pasts and future aspirations.

The climax of their journey occurs when Davina suggests returning home, while Sterling prefers to continue their adventure. This moment tests their compatibility and forces them to confront the reality of their diverging desires.

In a fragile motel atmosphere, Davina seeks clarity about their emotional bond, but Sterling's vague reassurances lead to a volatile exchange. A seemingly innocent reprimand triggers a violent outburst from Sterling, marking a turning point in their relationship.

The following day, Davina finds herself in a serene barn setting, where her desire to leave collides with Sterling's emotional frailty. An attempt to comfort him escalates into a desperate moment that irremediably fractures their connection.

After the unforgettable and damaging events of their last night together, Davina returns home alongside Cassidy. The journey reflects her emotional scars and the burdens of their experiences, shaping her path forward.