My Girl

As the spring thaw of 1974 reinvigorates Madison, Pennsylvania, Vada Sultenfuss transitions from a hypochondriac child into a more thoughtful teenager. This change is paralleled by her father's new domestic situation, as he has remarried Shelly DeVoto, stirring a blend of excitement and frustration in Vada.

The Sultenfuss residence, which serves as a funeral home, buzzes with eagerness as they prepare for the arrival of a new baby. Vada's childhood bedroom is being readied for a nursery, causing her to feel displaced and frustrated as her father encourages her to embrace her adolescence.

Vada navigates the complexities of her social life, particularly her unrequited feelings for her classmate Kevin. Despite her friends' suggestions that he might be interested in her, Vada's insecurities cloud her judgment and affect her interactions.

Assigned to write an essay about someone she admires but never knew, Vada selects her late mother, Margaret Ann Muldovan. The task poses a challenge as Vada is left with limited mementos, such as faded playbills and an old passport, which ignite her curiosity about Maggie's past.

In an effort to help her explore her mother's history, Shelly suggests a five-day trip to Los Angeles. After initially hesitating, Vada's father, Harry, agrees, allowing Vada to stay with her uncle Phil to delve into her mother's past during spring break.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Vada is greeted not by her uncle Phil but by Nick, the son of Phil's girlfriend. This encounter introduces her to a lively family dynamic and a new setting, as they bond over family stories and attempts to understand Maggie's life.

Vada's quest to learn about her mother takes her to Maggie's high school, only to find it has burned down. Despite this setback, she and Nick sift through old yearbooks and meet people who knew Maggie, uncovering fragments of her past.

A pivotal moment occurs when Vada meets her favorite poet, Alfred Beidermeyer, who shares his insights on the challenges of being a writer. This encounter helps shape Vada’s understanding of her own aspirations and the complexities inherent in pursuing one's dreams.

As Vada and Nick explore the city, her rebellious streak emerges, leading her to get her ears pierced. This impulsive action surprises Nick but symbolizes Vada's growing independence and search for her own identity amidst the confluence of her mother's legacy.

Vada's investigation reveals dark truths about her mother's life, including occurrences that challenge her view of family. She learns that Maggie had a past filled with complexities and relationships that force Vada to reconsider her own identity.

In her search for clarity, Vada reaches out to Jeffrey Pommeroy, a significant figure from her mother's past. Their conversation sheds light on Maggie's life, and Jeffrey's reassurances help Vada understand that Harry has always been a constant in her life.

A poignant home video shared by Jeffrey provides glimpses into Maggie's younger days. This intimate footage reveals connections to the mysterious date on a paper bag, deepening Vada’s understanding of her family's complicated history.

Back in Los Angeles, Phil finally confronts his feelings for Rose and proposes to her in a heartfelt moment. This act of vulnerability resonates with Vada, reinforcing the importance of love and commitment in both familial and romantic relationships.

At the airport, Vada experiences a bittersweet farewell with Nick, marked by a tender kiss. This moment captures the emotional weight of her journey as she prepares to return home, forever changed by her experiences in L.A.

Once back in Madison, Vada rushes to the hospital to meet her newborn half-brother. In a touching moment, she sings 'Smile' to calm him, recalling her mother's voice and signifying the beginning of a new chapter in her life enriched by newfound understanding.