Boys on the Side Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Three women with totally different lives decide to take a road trip and end up solving each other’s problems while singing karaoke and fighting crime… sort of.

🍿 Boys on the Side: Detailed Plot Synopsis

East Coast Beginnings and Forming the Trio

Jane, a lesbian nightclub singer in New York City, answers an ad placed by Robin, a quirky real estate agent, seeking a ride-share to Los Angeles. Despite initial reservations, Jane agrees. The pair embark on their cross-country journey, their personalities clashing initially. Their journey takes them through Pittsburgh, where they pick up Holly, a free-spirited woman escaping an abusive relationship with a violent drug dealer.

Escaping Pittsburgh and a Road Trip of Self-Discovery

Holly’s past catches up with her when a confrontation with her abusive ex-boyfriend ends in his accidental death. Fearing the consequences, the three women decide to flee Pittsburgh, embarking on a road trip that becomes a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, they confront their individual traumas and learn to rely on each other for support. Jane grapples with her identity as a lesbian, Robin battles the stigma and physical toll of AIDS, and Holly confronts her history of abuse and search for stability.

Settling in Tucson and Building a New Life

The women’s journey leads them to Tucson, Arizona, where they decide to settle down and create a new life. Jane finds work as a singer at a local bar, Robin forms a connection with a kind bartender, and Holly finds love with a local police officer. However, their past continues to haunt them, threatening their newfound peace and happiness. They face legal troubles related to the incident in Pittsburgh, forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jane (Whoopi Goldberg): A lesbian nightclub singer who embarks on a road trip seeking a fresh start and finds friendship along the way.
• Robin (Mary-Louise Parker): A quirky real estate agent with AIDS who seeks a ride to Los Angeles and forms deep bonds with her travel companions.
• Holly (Drew Barrymore): A free-spirited young woman escaping an abusive relationship who joins the road trip and finds love and stability.
• Abe (Matthew McConaughey): A kindhearted police officer who falls for Holly and offers her a chance at a better life.
• Alex (James Remar): A bar owner who develops a connection with Robin, offering her companionship and support.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Robin: “Are you a lesbian too, Ms. Nickerson?” – When questioned by the prosecuting attorney.
• Robin: “No sir but at times I understand the inclination.” – When asked if she’s a lesbian.
• Louise: “You can’t fight nature. God knows you women keep trying, treating your men like side dishes, stick a fork in when needed, just like men used to treat us.” – Robin’s mother imparts her wisdom about relationships.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $21,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $23,440,188
• Worldwide Gross: $23,440,188

💥 Boys on the Side Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely love this movie! It’s one of those films that I can watch over and over again. The bond between the three women is so heartwarming and real. The scene where Whoopi Goldberg sings ‘Piece of My Heart’ always gives me chills. It’s a perfect mix of comedy and drama, and I always end up crying by the end!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of female-led dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in stories about friendship and overcoming adversity”
  • “Those who enjoy 90s movies with strong soundtracks”
  • “Fans of Whoopi Goldberg, Mary-Louise Parker, and Drew Barrymore”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Deals with mature themes including AIDS, domestic violence, drug use, and accidental death. Includes some strong language and suggestive content.”

Professional Reviews

• Indiewire: “A poignant road trip story elevated by the chemistry of Goldberg, Parker, and Barrymore. The film navigates tough themes with heart, making it a memorable, emotional journey.
• MovieWeb: “While the performances are strong, the plot feels somewhat contrived. The film is a sentimental journey of friendship but struggles with pacing and an overabundance of melodramatic elements.

Audience Reactions

Drew Barrymore’s performance is a standout, bringing humor and heart to her character.: Viewers frequently praise the film for its portrayal of strong female friendships and the emotional depth of the characters.

The soundtrack is filled with amazing songs that perfectly capture the film’s mood.: Many agree on the emotional connection between the characters and find the film very moving.

Overall Consensus: A heartwarming and emotionally resonant film about friendship, survival, and the power of female bonds. While some critics find the plot predictable, most viewers appreciate the strong performances and the film’s ability to connect on a personal level.

Awards

1. MTV Movie Award (Best Song From a Movie)- 1996

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Whoopi Goldberg suggested her close personal friend, Drew Barrymore, for the role of Holly.”
• “Director Herbert Ross, known for ‘Steel Magnolias,’ skillfully navigates themes of sex, sexuality, female empowerment, friendship, and illness.”
• “The Warner Bros. Pictures logo was removed from the 2015 DVD reissue due to Fox owning a 20% stake in Regency at the time.”

🖥️ How to Watch Boys on the Side?

As of October 2024, ‘Boys on the Side’ is available for purchase or rental on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability and pricing. Unfortunately, it is not available on any major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Boys on the Side, you might like these similar films:

• Thelma & Louise (1991): Features women on a road trip, seeking freedom and breaking free from societal constraints.
• Fried Green Tomatoes (1991): Explores themes of female friendship, support, and resilience in the face of adversity.
• Steel Magnolias (1989): Focuses on the bond between women and how they cope with life’s challenges together.
• The First Wives Club (1996): Celebrates female friendship and empowerment as women navigate personal challenges and find strength in each other.

🛒 Boys on the Side Related Products

• Boys on the Side [Blu-ray]: The Blu-ray edition includes special features like behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, offering a deeper look into the making of this beloved film.
• Boys on the Side Movie Poster: A high-quality reprint of the original movie poster, perfect for adding a touch of classic cinema to any room.

🎧 Soundtrack

Boys on the Side features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Piece Of My Heart” – performed by Whoopi Goldberg
• “I Take You With Me” – performed by Melissa Etheridge
• “You Got It” – performed by Whoopi Goldberg and Mary-Louise Parker

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Matthew McConaughey Remembers Drew’s Love of Avocados on Set of Boys on the Side

Did you know Drew Barrymore had a thing for avocados during the filming of ‘Boys on the Side’? Matthew McConaughey spills the beans on her healthy snack obsession – it’s a hilarious and sweet memory!

Whoopie Goldberg – ”You Got It”.wmv

Want to appreciate Whoopi Goldberg’s amazing acting in ‘Boys on the Side’? This video zooms in on a deeply touching scene with Mary Louise Parker, showing the powerful bond between their characters. Honestly, it’s a beautiful moment!

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