Outside Providence

Timothy 'Dildo/Dunph' Dunphy navigates his senior year of high school against the backdrop of a troubled working-class upbringing. Raised by a single parent in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, he faces the challenges of adolescence while dealing with family trauma.

Dunph's father, Pat, struggles with the devastating impact of his wife's suicide, creating a tense home atmosphere. Though he is supportive of Dunph’s friends during a poker game, the underlying pain within the family is palpable and affects their relationships.

In a humorous yet embarrassing moment, Dunph's younger brother Jackie, who is wheelchair-bound, attempts to disguise a bong as a musical instrument. This incident serves to highlight the quirky and dysfunctional nature of the Dunphy family.

As Dunph and his friends enjoy their carefree lifestyle, a mishap occurs when Dunph, engulfed in smoke, accidentally rear-ends a police car. An influential poker player named Caveech intervenes and helps him avoid imprisonment by suggesting he attend a boarding school in Connecticut.

Dunph arrives at the Connecticut boys' boarding school where he immediately encounters a strict dorm master, Mr. Funderburk. The emphasis on rules contrasts sharply with his previous lifestyle, setting the stage for his rebellious journey.

At his new school, Dunph meets fellow students, including the cunning Billy Fu, who is notorious for having the best reefer on campus. This new environment fuels Dunph's inclination towards mischief and rebellion.

Dunph receives a peculiar letter from a student known as 'Drugs' Delaney, which ignites his disdain for the strict school regulations. This correspondence highlights his growing disconnection from authority and the educational system.

Dunph develops a crush on Jane Weston, whom he regards as the coolest girl in school. Their budding relationship plays a crucial role in helping Dunph see the potential value of education and personal responsibility.

Dunph's new-found joy is shattered when Mr. Funderburk discovers a party in the boys' dorm where Jane and her friends are smoking and drinking. This incident leads to Jane’s expulsion, leaving Dunph devastated and feeling guilty for her lost opportunity.

Determined to rectify the situation, Dunph confronts the Dean regarding Jane's unfair expulsion. He argues passionately that she had no involvement in the rule-breaking, demonstrating his growing maturity and sense of justice.

Dunph continues to face challenges at home as his father's inability to communicate about their family's tragedy looms over them. This further complicates Dunph's struggle for understanding and acceptance.

During graduation, Dunph makes a bold decision by refusing to shake Mr. Funderburk's hand, a powerful statement of defiance against the rigid educational system. This act of rebellion symbolizes his rejection of conformity and authority.

In an alternate conclusion, Dunph shares a passionate kiss with Jane post-graduation. This intense moment signifies their connection and Dunph's commitment to carving his own path contrary to societal expectations.

As Dunph walks away from the graduation ceremony, he symbolically distances himself from Funderburk, marking a new chapter in his life. His acceptance to the Community College of Rhode Island hints at a hopeful future for both him and his family.