Jane Wants a Boyfriend

Jane, approaching her 25th birthday, is still at home with her parents due to her high-functioning autism. The film opens with Jane perched above a stage, observing her sister Bianca while she rehearses Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” alongside a professional cast in the vibrant atmosphere of New York City. Armed with a walkie-talkie that disrupts the rehearsal, Jane stumbles upon a room stuffed with costumes. There, she discovers a note outlining her tasks, namely fixing costumes for the theater company, yet she yearns for the boldness to design them herself.

As the narrative unfolds, Jane and Bianca embark on a riverside walk where Bianca, filled with concern for her sister, urges her to exercise caution, recalling the numerous times Jane has required stitches. When Jane’s 25th birthday arrives, her father makes her a plate of chocolate chip pancakes, her favorite, though Jane had expressed a preference for blueberry pancakes instead. Sporting her pajamas, she complains but ends up eating the pancakes, adamant about not needing a candle because she insists she’s not a child anymore.

A significant shift occurs when Jane’s parents reveal a major decision: they are selling their house and relocating to New Jersey in search of more space. This revelation raises questions about Jane’s comfort and routine in the city, and whether Bianca will have to take on the responsibility of caring for her. Reluctantly, Bianca confides in her fiancé Rob during a phone call while he’s interviewing an “insane” person in a marsh.

Bianca’s final night working at the bar introduces Jack, a dedicated sous chef striving to climb the ranks. On a night thick with tension, Jane surprises Bianca by walking in with cookies, yet chooses not to introduce herself. Unbeknownst to Bianca, Jane shares a charming moment with Jack, who finds humor in their brief conversation, but Jane discreetly departs without revealing her identity.

Among Jane’s favorite pastimes is watching classic films repeatedly and imitating the characters. However, she grapples with her emotions, voicing her frustration over why life cannot mirror the enchantment of those movies. As Jane navigates her realities, Bianca invites her to a housewarming gathering at her new apartment with Rob in a stylishly converted factory.

Cynthia lends a helping hand for the preparations, leading to a discussion about the decisions impacting both sisters. When Jane arrives at the party sporting her father’s oversized shirt in defiance of Bianca’s encouragement to dress smartly, she feels out of place yet wants to blend in. Despite her initial reluctance, Jane tries to enjoy herself, requesting to drink what her peers are having, leading to a margarita after all.

As the gathering unfolds, Jack arrives with Kim, a waitress and former co-worker of Bianca’s, who seems more focused on herself than the collective vibe of the party. Jack expresses his discontent with the estrangement from his old friends, feeling disconnected amidst this new crowd. Jane feels apprehensive and primarily adopts the role of an observer, only to engage briefly with Rob before slipping outside for some air, eventually catching Jack’s attention. Their chemistry blooms as they discuss the beauty of the universe in contrast to the mundane, but Bianca soon intrudes, concerned for her sister’s well-being due to Jack’s past.

Complications arise when Jane’s interactions lead to misunderstandings. Jack wakes up to a chaotic morning with Kim and addresses his career struggles while Jane grapples with her identity and the implications of the word “neurotypical.” Meanwhile, Cynthia and Rob concoct plans to introduce Jane to someone, which sets the stage for a date with Steven, someone who superficially aligns with Jane. Their date proves disappointing, as Steven monopolizes the conversation and doesn’t allow Jane to express herself. Overwhelmed, Jane bolts from the scene, ultimately finding solace in the view of the Empire State Building, where she reconciles with Bianca.

Back home, her parents seize the opportunity for intimacy, only to be interrupted by an unexpected phone call from Jack, who expresses interest in asking Jane out. After a slight reluctance, Rob offers Jane’s contact information to Jack, creating possibilities for their budding relationship.

As the story progresses, we see Jack’s culinary ambitions gaining traction, even if he doesn’t get the promotion he desires. Meanwhile, his growing connection with Jane flourishes during their outings, characterized by laughter and joy, even as he admits the restaurant he took her to is closed for the night—his special access allowing them private moments.

The climactic moment arrives with the opening night of the play, where the audience, including Rob and Cynthia, awaits a performance that sparks tension for Jane. Overwhelmed, she leaves the theater, but Jack instinctively follows, prioritizing comforting her over the event at hand. As they share heartfelt moments, Jane reveals her unique designs, garnering Jack’s admiration, culminating in a sweet kiss against the backdrop of applause. The play concludes, with Rob and Cynthia choosing to focus on Bianca rather than joining the others, thrilling in their own sense of completion.

During the film’s closing credits, Jane and Jack engage in playful reenactments of scenes from her beloved movies, transitioning seamlessly into artistic black-and-white montages accompanied by soft jazz, encapsulating the essence of their blossoming relationship and Jane’s journey towards embracing herself in a world that often feels foreign.

Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04