Boy Meets Girl (2014), written and directed by Eric Schaeffer, is a romantic comedy-drama with a lot of heart. It tells the story of Ricky, a young transgender woman living in Kentucky, as she navigates friendship, love, and the pursuit of her dreams.
Detailed Summary
Ricky’s Life in Small-Town Kentucky
Ricky (played by Michelle Hendley) is a 21-year-old transgender woman who dreams of becoming a fashion designer in New York City. She works at a coffee shop and spends most of her free time with her best friend Robby (Michael Welch), who has been her closest companion for years. Their bond is one of trust, teasing, and deep affection, though not yet romantic.
Meeting Francesca
One day, Ricky meets Francesca (Alexandra Turshen), a wealthy young woman engaged to a Marine stationed overseas. Their connection is instant—flirtatious, curious, and unexpectedly intimate. Ricky and Francesca begin a relationship that is both romantic and exploratory, challenging societal expectations and pushing both women to confront what they truly want.
Complications and Tensions
While Ricky and Francesca grow closer, Robby struggles with feelings he’s long kept hidden. He has always loved Ricky but never confessed. Francesca’s engagement also casts a shadow, as she wrestles with her loyalty to her fiancé versus her growing feelings for Ricky.
Coming to Terms with Love and Identity
As relationships grow more complicated, the central theme of the movie emerges: self-acceptance, authenticity, and the courage to chase dreams despite obstacles. Ricky must decide if she’ll stay in Kentucky or pursue her ambitions in New York—and whether love with Francesca or Robby will play a role in her future.
Movie Ending
The film closes on a hopeful and heartfelt note. Ricky ultimately realizes that her truest, most stable love has always been right beside her—Robby. After Francesca decides to remain loyal to her fiancé and leave Ricky behind, Ricky is left heartbroken but wiser. Robby finally confesses his love for her, and Ricky allows herself to embrace the possibility of being loved fully for who she is.
The final scenes show Ricky making peace with her past, daring to dream again about her future, and opening her heart to the idea of a romantic relationship with Robby. It’s not a flashy ending, but it’s deeply human—underscoring themes of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of love.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, Boy Meets Girl does not have a post-credits scene. Once the story concludes, the credits roll without additional material.
Type of Movie
The film is a romantic comedy-drama with LGBTQ+ themes. It’s heartfelt, grounded in small-town realism, and often humorous while tackling serious subjects like identity and love.
Cast
- Michelle Hendley as Ricky
- Michael Welch as Robby
- Alexandra Turshen as Francesca
- Randall Newsome as Greg (Francesca’s fiancé)
Film Music and Composer
The film’s music was composed by David Carbonara, known for his work on Mad Men. The soundtrack is soft, emotional, and reflective, enhancing the intimacy of Ricky’s journey.
Filming Locations
The film was shot in Louisville, Kentucky, which adds authenticity to Ricky’s small-town struggles. The choice of location is significant: the rural backdrop reflects the challenges of living authentically in a conservative environment.
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Awards and Nominations
The film was well-received in LGBTQ+ film festivals. Notable mentions include:
- Outfest (Official Selection)
- Newfest Film Festival (Audience Favorite)
- Nominated for multiple awards celebrating LGBTQ+ representation in cinema
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Michelle Hendley, who plays Ricky, had no prior acting experience before this film. She was discovered through her YouTube channel where she documented her transition.
- Director Eric Schaeffer wanted authenticity, so casting a trans actress was non-negotiable.
- Many scenes were improvised, particularly between Hendley and Welch, to capture the natural chemistry of longtime friends.
Inspirations and References
The film was inspired by Schaeffer’s interest in telling authentic transgender stories without resorting to stereotypes or tragedy. Unlike many films featuring trans characters, Boy Meets Girl avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on everyday struggles and love.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no widely known alternate endings, but deleted moments include extended conversations between Ricky and Francesca that further explored their attraction. These were cut for pacing.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film is not based on a book. It is an original screenplay by Eric Schaeffer.
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Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Ricky’s first kiss with Francesca, filled with both tenderness and uncertainty.
- The scene where Ricky tells Robby she fears no one will ever truly love her.
- Francesca’s conflicted goodbye, highlighting her torn loyalties.
- Robby’s heartfelt confession of love to Ricky.
Iconic Quotes
- Ricky: “I want to love and be loved… just like everyone else.”
- Robby: “You’ve always been enough, Ricky. You’ve always been everything.”
- Francesca: “You make me question everything I thought I knew.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film subtly includes fashion sketches drawn by Ricky, which were actually designed by local Kentucky artists.
- Ricky’s coffee shop scenes often feature extras who were real townspeople, adding to the film’s grounded feel.
Trivia
- Michelle Hendley’s real-life transition mirrored much of Ricky’s fictional story, giving the performance natural depth.
- Eric Schaeffer originally imagined the story as a short film before expanding it into a feature.
- The movie has become a cult favorite in LGBTQ+ communities for its refreshing portrayal of a transgender heroine.
Why Watch?
Watch Boy Meets Girl if you want an honest, touching, and uplifting story about identity, friendship, and the complexities of love. It avoids clichés, offers authentic representation, and leaves you with hope.
Director’s Other Movies
- If Lucy Fell (1996)
- After Fall, Winter (2011)
- Fall (1997)