Gayby 2012

In the throes of their mid-thirties existential crisis, Jenn, a passionate yoga instructor, and Matt, a devoted comic book enthusiast and store owner, reconnect as the best friends they once were during their college years. Bound by a pact made in their youthful days, they set out on an unconventional venture—embarking on the journey of parenthood together. This unique arrangement, which they dub a “gayby,” is particularly significant for Jenn, who stands to inherit a trust fund from her grandmother upon the arrival of her child, despite her heterosexuality and Matt’s homosexuality.

As they tread this uncharted path, Jenn feels increasingly suffocated in her role at the yoga studio. Eager to break free from her monotonous routine, she suggests innovative “warm” yoga classes aimed at a broader clientele, hoping to rejuvenate her career and reclaim her authority as an instructor. On the other hand, Matt grapples with the emotional aftermath of his breakup with Tom, his partner of six years, who is now making strides in the comic book realm. The lingering memories of his past relationship often bring Matt heartache, as he tries to dodge uncomfortable encounters with Tom.

To aid in revitalizing their personal and romantic lives, Jenn and Matt make a joint commitment to transform their dating situations. They turn to friends for advice, with Jenn receiving insights from her gay coworker Jamie and her tenacious sister Kelly, who is in the process of adopting a child. Meanwhile, Matt finds solace in the counsel of Nelson, his dry-humored friend and occasional surrogate father.

In the midst of focusing on their love lives, Jenn gets swept up in a whirlwind romance with Louis, her boss’s brother. Simultaneously, Matt begins dating Scott, a newly out gay father who shares his enthusiasm for comic books. However, as their relationship with Scott unfolds, Matt grows increasingly frustrated with Scott’s slow pacing and lack of urgency, heightening his emotional struggles.

Their world soon takes a thrilling turn when Jenn discovers she is pregnant, a revelation that brings both joy and a renewed focus on their goals. Yet, Jenn’s newfound happiness is shattered when she uncovers Louis’s deceit; not only does he have a girlfriend, but he also previously cheated on her, leading to a tumultuous realization regarding the paternity of her child. “I’ve been careless, and you should have known,” Louis tries to justify, further complicating Jenn’s situation.

Facing backlash from her boss, who forces her to take an extended leave due to Louis’s actions tarnishing her professionalism, Jenn confides in Kelly about her fears that Matt might not be the father after all. Despite her struggles, Jenn remains adamant in her resolve to raise her child on her own terms, asserting that she is more than capable of providing a nurturing environment without Matt’s direct involvement. To Jenn’s surprise, Kelly, impressed by her determination, reveals that her offer to adopt was a test, and her adoption process has completed successfully.

With her future secured, Jenn makes a bold move to invest in the yoga studio using funds from her trust, solidifying her standing in the community and revitalizing her friendship with her boss. Meanwhile, Nelson plays a pivotal role in encouraging Matt to put pen to paper on his comic book, enabling him to channel his hurt from Louis’s betrayal into a creative outlet that helps him heal emotionally. Through sharing his work with Tom, who expresses enthusiasm for the project, Matt finds renewed hope on his journey of redemption.

Though he progresses personally, Matt cannot shake the uncertainty regarding the child’s paternity. In a moment of clarity, Nelson reminds him that biological connections are not the sole definition of parenthood; rather, it is the love and commitment that truly matter. This realization sparks a transformative journey for Matt, leading him towards healing and acceptance.

A year later, as Jenn steps into Matt’s comic book store, emotions run high. With remorse and longing in her gaze, she seeks Matt’s forgiveness, proposing a collaborative co-parenting arrangement for their child. After a moment of silence, Matt’s expression softens, and the two reconcile, forging a path for their future together.

Fast forward, Matt’s Gayby comic book series has skyrocketed to success, earning him commendation and acclaim. His relationship with Scott flourishes, enhancing their co-parenting dynamic as Scott pitch in eagerly with childcare. On the horizon, Jenn has discovered love again with one of Matt’s coworkers, making regular visits to help with the baby while granting Matt and Scott precious moments for themselves.

Unbeknownst to Matt, Scott is silently preparing for an evening that will change their lives—an unexpected proposal. While Matt and Scott step away, Jenn lovingly cradles the baby, whispering, “You sure do look like your father,” hinting at the lingering mystery regarding the child’s true paternity—a question that hangs delicately in the air, awaiting resolution.