Outside Providence

Timothy “Dildo/Dunph” Dunphy, portrayed by Shawn Hatosy, is navigating his senior year in high school as part of the Class of 1974 in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. He comes from a troubled, working-class background, raised by a single parent. While his friends aspire to little beyond sitting atop the water tower and smoking marijuana, Dunph’s life takes a significant turn. His father, Pat, played by Alec Baldwin, is grappling with the heartbreaking aftermath of his wife’s suicide. Despite the tension in their home, Pat warmly welcomes Dunph’s friends during a poker game, unaware that they are there for more than just polite hellos.

In a scheme to conceal their true intentions, Dunph’s wheelchair-bound younger brother, Jackie, tries to pass off a bong as a musical horn, which leads to an embarrassing moment when it falls on the floor. This humorous yet awkward interaction highlights the family’s dysfunctional dynamics. En route to more adventures, the boys encounter trouble; Dunph, engulfed in smoke, rear-ends a police car, and an influential poker player, Caveech, helps him avoid prison by arranging for Dunph to attend a Connecticut boys’ boarding school instead.

At the new school, Dunph is introduced to a strict dorm master, Mr. Funderburk, played by Timothy Crowe, who emphasizes the importance of adhering to school rules. Yet, Dunph soon realizes that his peers, including the scheming Billy Fu, an exchange student famous for possessing “the best reefer on campus,” share his penchant for mischief. As Dunph navigates this new social hierarchy, he receives a peculiar letter from another student, “Drugs” Delaney, which lights a fire in him, highlighting his disdain for both the institution and authority.

Dunph’s journey also leads him to Jane Weston, portrayed by Amy Smart, who he views as “hands down, the coolest girl in school.” Their relationship blossoms, and through her support, he begins to understand the true value of education. However, the peace is shattered when Mr. Funderburk uncovers a party in the boys’ dorm where Jane and her friends are found smoking and drinking. Jane is expelled, leaving Dunph feeling responsible for derailing her dreams of attending Brown University.

Determined to right the wrongs of their situation, Dunph confronts the Dean about Jane’s expulsion, arguing that she played no part in the transgression. Meanwhile, he grapples with his father’s inability to communicate about the family tragedy that looms over them. During graduation, Dunph makes a bold statement by refusing to shake Funderburk’s hand, demonstrating his rebellion against the establishment.

In an alternate ending featured on the DVD, as graduation concludes, Dunph meets Jackie and their three-legged dog, Clopsy, alongside Jane, where they share a passionate kiss. This moment, much to Funderburk’s disgust, ends with Dunph striking him in defiance, solidifying his break from societal expectations and a step towards personal freedom. As he walks away, the future is uncertain yet filled with hope, representing Dunph’s acceptance to the Community College of Rhode Island and a hint at a brighter path for his family.

Last Updated: November 03, 2024 at 12:30