The Boys in the Band

In 1968, Michael prepares for Harold's birthday celebration in his Upper East Side apartment. As he sets up the festivities, he receives a call from Donald, who arrives earlier than expected due to a canceled appointment.

While waiting for guests, Michael reflects on his life, noting his feelings of aging and financial troubles. This moment of introspection sets a somber tone as he faces the realities of his situation.

Michael receives an urgent call from his old roommate Alan, who expresses a need to speak in person. Knowing Alan's heterosexuality, Michael decides to invite him to the party, warning his other guests about the situation.

As the evening progresses, Emory arrives with his partners, Hank and Larry, who are experiencing their own relationship issues. The gathering begins to take shape as more friends join, bringing their emotional baggage along.

Just when the party seems to be uplifting, Alan calls from a payphone, deciding to skip the celebration and meet Michael for lunch the next day. This news dampens the mood as everyone contemplates the tension in the air.

Despite Alan's cancellation, the atmosphere shifts as Larry and Bernard begin to dance to 'Heat Wave,' joined by Emory and Michael. The music momentarily lifts spirits and allows guests to briefly forget their troubles.

In an unexpected twist, Alan arrives at the party after all, witnessing the lively atmosphere. However, he feels uncomfortable with the dynamics, particularly regarding Emory's flamboyant behavior.

Michael attempts to speak with Alan privately to discuss urgent matters, but Alan skillfully avoids the conversation. The evening becomes increasingly tense as misunderstandings abound among the guests.

The night takes another turn with the arrival of Cowboy, a hustler who mistakenly kisses Michael, mistaking him for Harold. This misunderstanding complicates the already frayed relationships and creates a ripple of discontent.

The tension escalates into a physical altercation when Alan and Emory engage in a heated argument. Alan throws a punch at Emory, showcasing the underlying conflict among the friends as frustrations bubble to the surface.

Just as the chaos peaks, Harold arrives, greeted warmly by Cowboy. However, Michael's choice to indulge in drinking and smoking, despite his recent resolve to quit, complicates his emotional state.

To distract everyone from rising tensions, Michael initiates a party game focused on making heartfelt phone calls. The game reveals deeper connections, disappointments, and culminates in emotional exchanges that highlight their vulnerabilities.

Michael confronts Alan about their past and a boy named Justin, which leads to a pivotal phone call from Alan. His choice to prioritize his marriage over their shared history leaves Michael feeling dejected.

Before leaving, Harold delivers a blunt truth to Michael about his identity. This moment of honesty forces Michael to grapple with his new reality amidst the chaos of the party.

As midnight approaches, Michael finds solace at Mass in St. Malachy's. Meanwhile, the others are scattered—some finding connection, while Michael is left to contemplate his friends' struggles, culminating in a sudden rush of hope as he embraces the night.