Set in the 1970s, the story follows Tish (KiKi Layne), a 19-year-old African-American woman deeply enamored with Fonny (Stephan James), a slightly older man who shares her love. In an unexpected turn of events, Tish visits Fonny in prison to reveal that she is expecting their first child. Despite the challenging circumstances surrounding his incarceration, they both find joy in the upcoming addition to their family.
Upon returning home, Tish confides in her mother, Sharon (Regina King), about her pregnancy. Concerned for her daughter, Sharon learns that Fonny is incarcerated on a false accusation of rape, a serious ordeal that weighs heavily on their family. Together, Tish and Sharon break the news to the rest of their family, including her father, Joseph (Colman Domingo), and her sister, Ernestine (Teyonah Parris). While the revelation initially shocks them, this close-knit family rallies together in support. They decide to invite Fonny’s family over to discuss the situation, leading to a tumultuous Saturday night gathering.
Amidst flashbacks to happier times, we catch glimpses of Tish and Fonny's early relationship, strolling through the streets of New York and basking in each other's company. In stark contrast, the present introduces the arrival of Fonny’s family, including his cynical mother, Mrs. Hunt (Aunjanue Ellis), and his humorous father, Frank (Michael Beach). The evening takes a sharp turn when Mrs. Hunt expresses disdain for Tish, cursing her and damning the unborn child. In a shocking moment, Frank retaliates, striking Mrs. Hunt and igniting chaos in the house. Sharon and Ernestine stand up to Mrs. Hunt's cruelty, finally escorting her out.
As we oscillate between past and present, flashbacks reveal intimate moments shared between Tish and Fonny, including their first night together. Meanwhile, Tish seeks legal help from Hayward (Finn Wittrock), a lawyer determined to defend Fonny against the false charges. They face mounting obstacles, including the absence of the victim, Victoria Rogers (Emily Rios), and the unwillingness of the district attorney's office to cooperate. As Hayward prepares for a difficult trial, Tish holds on to hope.
As the narrative unfolds, we see the toll that the struggle inflicts on Tish, who takes on a job as a counter girl to provide for her growing family while waiting for justice. Frank and Joseph navigate their own hurdles, resorting to dubious means of income as they try to support Tish and Fonny's legal battles.
Flashbacks continue to sprinkle warmth into the tale, showing the couple striving for a place they can call their own amid rampant discrimination. Tragedy hits when Tish embarks on a journey to Puerto Rico in search of Victoria, encountering Pietro (Pedro Pascal), Victoria’s boyfriend, who initially refuses to assist but eventually directs her to a visibly traumatized Victoria, who remains adamant about her identification of Fonny as her assailant.
As the story progresses, Tish learns of the reappearance and subsequent disappearance of Victoria, leading to further complications in Fonny's case. The heartbreaking reality reaches a climax as Tish gives birth to their son, and Fonny, under extreme pressure, makes the difficult decision to plead guilty to a lesser charge.
Years later, Tish brings their child to see Fonny during visiting hours, and they share some fleeting moments of togetherness—an impromptu family dinner consisting of vending machine snacks—offering a glimpse of love and resilience amidst the harsh realities they face together.
