What Is Appropriate Behavior About?
The premise of Appropriate Behavior in 281 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the vibrant, multicultural neighborhoods of Brooklyn, Shirin navigates the delicate space between her Persian heritage and the life she is carving for herself in the United States. Raised by affluent immigrant parents who hold tightly to tradition, she finds herself questioning the expectations that have long defined her family’s identity. The city’s lively streets and quiet park corners become a backdrop for a personal journey that blends cultural reverence with the yearning for self‑definition.
After a painful breakup, Shirin is thrust into a period of upheaval: she loses her home, her job, and the familiar comforts of her past. With the encouragement of Crystal, a supportive friend whose optimism feels like a lifeline, she moves in with an eclectic group of roommates and takes a surprising new position teaching five‑year‑olds the basics of filmmaking in Park Slope. This unconventional workplace offers a playground of imagination, while also forcing her to confront the reality of her bisexuality—a truth her family has not yet seen, and one her brother meets with unexpected openness. Meanwhile, the lingering presence of Maxine, her former lover, adds a layer of unresolved emotion that lingers beneath everyday interactions.
The film settles into a tone that is equal parts tender and incisive, using the everyday rhythms of city life to highlight the broader themes of identity, belonging, and liberation. Laughter bubbles through classroom chaos, while quieter moments capture the weight of cultural expectations pressing against a desire to live authentically. As Shirin balances her burgeoning independence with the pull of her familial roots, the story invites viewers to wonder how far she will go to reconcile love, heritage, and the promise of a future yet to be defined.
What Happens in Appropriate Behavior?
The complete story of Appropriate Behavior, from the first scene to the last, in 177 words (about 1 minute). Spoilers throughout.
Spoilers ahead
Brooklynite Shirin, the daughter of affluent Persian immigrants, finds herself homeless and unemployed after a painful breakup with her girlfriend, Maxine. Encouraged by her friend Crystal, Shirin decides to move in with some unconventional roommates and embarks on a new journey teaching the art of filmmaking to five-year-olds in Park Slope.
Shirin’s parents are perplexed at her sudden change of living arrangements, completely unaware of her bisexuality and relationship with a woman. Keen to regain control of her life, Shirin attempts to reconnect with Maxine, who has started a new romance with Tibet, a fellow teacher at the school where she works. Amidst the chaos, Shirin becomes dedicated to her job, bravely comes out to her brother (who is largely supportive), and faces her mother, who struggles to accept the truth.
On a subway ride, Shirin confides in Crystal about her intention to confront her mother regarding her sexuality in a month. Just then, she spots Maxine on the platform, leading to a hopeful exchange as they wave at each other, a moment filled with unspoken possibilities.
Appropriate Behavior Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Shirin's Breakup” to “Moving Forward”. 4 events name a place, across 4 locations.
- 1
Shirin's Breakup
Shirin, a young woman living in Brooklyn, experiences a painful breakup with her girlfriend, Maxine. This event disrupts her life significantly, leading her to become both homeless and unemployed, prompting a major change in her circumstances.
Where:Brooklyn
- 2
Moving In With New Roommates
After her breakup, Shirin seeks solace in the company of her friend Crystal, who encourages her to find new living arrangements. Shirin decides to move in with a group of unconventional roommates, marking the beginning of her journey toward self-discovery.
- 3
Teaching Filmmaking
Embracing her new circumstances, Shirin starts teaching the art of filmmaking to a group of enthusiastic five-year-olds in Park Slope. This job not only helps her regain her footing but also allows her to reconnect with her creative passions.
Where:Park Slope
- 4
Parents' Confusion
As Shirin adjusts to her new life, her affluent Persian immigrant parents express confusion and concern over her sudden living situation. They remain unaware of Shirin's bisexuality and her relationship with a woman, highlighting the traditional values that shape their perspectives.
- 5
Attempting to Reconnect
In an effort to regain some control over her life, Shirin tries to reach out to Maxine, who has moved on and started a new relationship with Tibet. This attempt to reconnect is fraught with emotions as Shirin grapples with her feelings of loss and longing.
- 6
Coming Out to Her Brother
Determined to live her truth, Shirin courageously comes out to her brother, who responds with overwhelming support. This moment of acceptance is pivotal for Shirin, reinforcing her resilience and willingness to embrace her identity openly.
- 7
Confronting Her Mother
Shirin plans to confront her mother about her sexuality, acknowledging the importance of this conversation for her personal growth. While on a subway ride, she confides in Crystal about her intentions, revealing her deeper struggles with family acceptance.
Where:Subway
- 8
Spotting Maxine
During her subway commute, fate intervenes as Shirin spots Maxine on the platform. Their unexpected encounter is filled with unspoken possibilities, giving Shirin a glimmer of hope amidst her chaotic life.
Where:Subway Station
- 9
Maxine's New Romance
As Shirin processes her feelings, she learns that Maxine has moved on and is now in a relationship with Tibet, a fellow teacher. This revelation adds complexity to Shirin’s emotions and underscores the challenges of letting go.
- 10
Navigating New Relationships
Shirin's journey involves navigating her relationships with her roommates and her students, as well as the dynamics of her previous romance. Each interaction enriches her understanding of connection and community in her life.
Show the other 5 events of Appropriate Behavior Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Inner Reflection
Throughout her experiences, Shirin embarks on a path of inner reflection, contemplating her desires, aspirations, and the realities of her identity. This period of introspection is crucial for her healing and future endeavors.
- 12
Embracing Independence
As time passes, Shirin finds strength in her independence, learning to advocate for herself and express her true self. Her journey symbolizes a powerful statement about finding one's place in the world while balancing personal and cultural expectations.
- 13
Support from Friends
Amidst the complexities, Shirin's friendship with Crystal serves as a source of support and motivation. This connection helps Shirin solidify her identity and discover empowerment in the face of adversity.
- 14
A New Beginning
As Shirin adapts to her new life and teaching role, she embarks on what feels like a fresh start. Her journey exemplifies the power of resilience and the importance of nurturing relationships that support her authentic self.
- 15
Moving Forward
By the film's conclusion, Shirin has made significant strides towards finding peace with her past and paving a way toward a hopeful future. The timeline of her struggles and growth reflects her journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
Who Are the Main Characters in Appropriate Behavior?
4 characters, among them Shirin, Maxine and Crystal: who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- S
Shirin
Shirin is a complex character who embodies the struggle for self-acceptance and the pursuit of personal happiness. As a daughter of immigrant parents, she faces cultural challenges while navigating her bisexuality. Her journey is marked by moments of vulnerability and growth as she learns to embrace her identity.
- 💁♀️ Main Character
- 🌈 Bisexuality
- 🏆 Personal Growth
- M
Maxine
Maxine is Shirin's ex-girlfriend whose new relationship serves as a catalyst for Shirin's journey of self-discovery. Her presence represents the complexities of love, as Shirin reflects on their past together while grappling with her feelings amidst the uncertainty of their future.
- 💖 Love Interest
- 🔄 Complicated Relationship
- C
Crystal
Crystal is Shirin's supportive friend who encourages her to embrace change and face her challenges head-on. Serving as a confidante, she plays a crucial role in Shirin’s journey, providing guidance and motivation during tough times.
- 👭 Friend
- 💪 Supportive
- T
Tibet
Tibet is introduced as Maxine's new romantic interest, adding layers to the narrative of love and moving on. His presence challenges Shirin as she comes to terms with her feelings of jealousy and loss, reflecting the complexities of relationships.
- 💔 New Love
- 💼 Teacher
Where and When Is Appropriate Behavior Set?
Appropriate Behavior is set in Brooklyn and Park Slope. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The film reflects contemporary life in Brooklyn, showcasing the challenges and emotional journeys faced by individuals in modern urban settings. Themes of identity, relationships, and the struggle for acceptance resonate with current societal issues.
Where
Brooklyn, Park Slope
Brooklyn is a vibrant borough of New York City known for its diverse culture, artistic neighborhoods, and historic brownstones. Park Slope, in particular, is a family-friendly area famous for its picturesque streets, green parks, and community-oriented vibe, making it an ideal setting for personal growth and new beginnings.
- 🏙️ City Life
- 🏡 Residential Area
What Are the Themes of Appropriate Behavior?
2 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Identity and Love and Loss.
-
01
Identity
The theme of identity is central to Shirin’s journey as she navigates her bisexuality and cultural background. Her struggle to come out to her family and embrace her true self highlights the tension between personal desires and familial expectations. This theme resonates with many seeking acceptance and understanding in their lives.
-
02
Love and Loss
The film explores love and loss through Shirin's painful breakup with Maxine and her attempts to reconnect. Shirin's journey sheds light on the emotional complexity of moving on while still holding onto feelings for someone special. The presence of new relationships amidst heartbreak adds depth to this exploration.
What Kind of Film Is Appropriate Behavior?
Bittersweet in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Bittersweet
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
An awkwardly relatable and melancholic comedy about navigating heartbreak and cultural expectations, with moments of quiet introspection and hopeful possibility in a Brooklyn setting.
- introspective
- melancholic
- hopeful
- quirky
- lonely
- awkward
- coming out
- bisexuality
- cultural identity
- family expectations
Content notes: sexual content, nudity.
Quiz
How well do you remember Appropriate Behavior? Test yourself on the story.
