What Is The First Time About?
The premise of The First Time in 297 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a sleepy suburb where the rhythm of high‑school life hums between lockers, late‑night parties, and the endless scroll of social media, two seniors find themselves stepping out of the familiar and into something uncertain. Dave, a thoughtful but often hesitant teen, carries the quiet weight of unspoken crushes and the pressure to fit into his friends’ banter. Across the hallway, Aubrey radiates a restless creativity that masks a tender yearning for connection, a spark that becomes impossible to ignore when their worlds briefly collide one restless Friday night.
The film embraces a warm, slightly nostalgic tone, painting the senior year as both a time of reckless spontaneity and fragile self‑discovery. Light‑hearted humor intertwines with moments of genuine vulnerability, allowing the audience to feel the flutter of first attraction while also sensing the deeper questions each character asks about who they want to become. The setting—a blend of cramped bedrooms, buzzing diners, and dimly lit movie theaters—acts as a backdrop for whispered conversations that hint at larger dreams and insecurities.
As Dave and Aubrey navigate the awkward dance of getting to know one another, the narrative gently explores the push‑and‑pull of youthful attraction: the excitement of shared laughter, the nervousness of private confessions, and the subtle pressure of peers offering unsolicited advice. Their growing bond becomes a quiet sanctuary amid the chaos of exams, family expectations, and the ever‑present fear of being misunderstood.
Throughout the weekend, the pair discovers that the true magic of first love lies not in cinematic gestures but in the small, unplanned moments that reveal how deeply two strangers can understand each other. Their journey hints at a transformation that will linger long after the final bell rings, leaving viewers eager to watch the delicate balance between youthful daring and heartfelt honesty unfold.
What Happens in The First Time?
The complete story of The First Time, from the first scene to the last, in 530 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout.
Spoilers ahead
Dave and Aubrey’s unexpected connection begins on a Friday night in an alley outside a party, where Dave seeks advice about his crush, Jane. As tension mounts with the arrival of the police, the two evade the chaos and head to Aubrey’s home. Once there, Aubrey asks Dave a bold question regarding his sexual experiences, which he answers honestly. However, when he turns the question back on her, she deflects, leaving a veil of mystery. They share a cozy moment, drifting off to sleep, but in the morning, Dave makes a hurried exit through her window.
Later, while chatting with his friends, Simon and Big Corporation, about Aubrey, they speculate that she must be lying about having a boyfriend. However, Dave soon realizes he doesn’t have her number, prompting them to contact a resourceful friend who provides him with Aubrey’s home number. When he calls, she mentions plans with her boyfriend Ronny, forcing Dave to concoct a tale about hanging out with his friends.
At the cinema, fate intertwines their paths as Dave encounters Jane, unveiling that they are watching the same film. A surprise introduction to Ronny brings an unforeseen twist, leading to an emotional lobby conversation where Aubrey apologizes for her earlier rude behavior. Tension melts away when Dave secures her cell number, inviting both Aubrey and Ronny to a gathering at Brianna’s place.
At the party, a conversation between Aubrey and Jane reveals the depth of Dave’s feelings for Jane, yet Aubrey tentatively suggests she might like him too. Just as romance begins to bloom, Ronny declares his intentions to take Aubrey out that night, igniting worry in Dave. He pleads with Aubrey to reconsider, believing that she deserves more than someone like Ronny. As they edge closer to a kiss, their moment is interrupted by Ronny’s urgent call to leave. Following a brief skirmish, Ronny whisked Aubrey away, leaving Dave alone with his newfound feelings.
As the night unfolds, Jane engages Dave in conversation about her relationships, ultimately making him realize that he can’t stop thinking about Aubrey. Just as he processes this, Aubrey sends him a text asking for a ride. During their drive, she confesses she broke things off with Ronny, and they share a kiss, solidifying their emotional bond.
The following night presents another pivotal moment when Aubrey’s parents are out, leading her to invite Dave over. Although he briefly considers bringing a condom, he arrives with the intention of simply enjoying their time together. As they kiss, Dave hesitates, worried about ruining the magic of their weekend. Together, they discuss the merits of abstaining but soon find themselves giving in to temptation. However, their first experience is far from perfect, leaving them both uncertain of where they stand.
In the days that follow, seeking advice from Simon and Big Corporation proves unhelpful as Simon encourages him to move on. In contrast, Big Corporation urges Dave to embrace challenges. Undeterred, he visits Aubrey the next day, declaring he wants a real relationship despite the previous night’s complications. As they arrive at school together, Aubrey surprises Dave by running back to plant a kiss on him, triumphantly bridging the gap between uncertainty and romance.
The First Time Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “First Encounter” to “Public Display of Affection”. 10 events name a place, across 7 locations.
- 1
First Encounter
On a Friday night, Dave first meets Aubrey in an alley outside a party, seeking advice about his crush on Jane. Their conversation sparks an unexpected connection as they dodge the chaos of police approaching the party.
When:Friday night Where:Alley outside a party
- 2
Aubrey's Bold Question
Once they arrive at Aubrey's home, she boldly inquires about Dave's sexual experiences. Dave answers honestly, but when he returns the question, Aubrey deflects, leaving an air of mystery between them.
Where:Aubrey's home
- 3
Dave's Hasty Exit
After sharing a cozy moment and drifting off to sleep, Dave wakes up the next morning and makes a hasty exit through Aubrey's window. This sudden departure establishes the unpredictability of their budding relationship.
When:Morning Where:Aubrey's home
- 4
Searching for Contact
Later, while hanging out with friends Simon and Big Corporation, Dave realizes he doesn't have Aubrey's phone number. They enlist a resourceful friend who provides them with her home number, igniting Dave’s determination to connect.
- 5
Unexpected Phone Call
When Dave calls Aubrey, she mentions plans with her boyfriend Ronny, prompting Dave to fabricate a story about spending time with friends. This moment highlights the complications arising from their unspoken feelings.
- 6
Fateful Cinema Encounter
While watching a film at the cinema, Dave unexpectedly runs into Jane, who is there with Ronny. This encounter brings emotional turmoil as Dave wishes to be with Aubrey, which becomes more complicated in the presence of Ronny.
Where:Cinema
- 7
Apologies and Phone Numbers
In the cinema lobby, Aubrey apologizes for her earlier rudeness towards Dave. Subsequently, tension loosens as Dave secures her cell number, fostering hope for developing feelings between them.
Where:Cinema lobby
- 8
Party Revelations
At Brianna's party, a conversation between Aubrey and Jane unveils the depth of Dave's feelings for Jane, but also sees Aubrey hinting at her interest in Dave. This moment introduces romantic tension as Ronny’s presence looms overhead.
Where:Brianna's party
- 9
Ronny's Interruptions
Just as Dave and Aubrey's romance begins to blossom, Ronny declares his intention to take Aubrey out that night. In a desperate attempt, Dave pleads with her to reconsider, emphasizing that she deserves better than Ronny.
Where:Brianna's party
- 10
Post-Party Realizations
As the night continues, Jane discusses her relationships with Dave, ultimately stirring deeper feelings for Aubrey within him. This emotional turmoil culminates when Aubrey texts Dave asking for a ride, signaling another pivotal shift.
Show the other 4 events of The First Time Hide the last 4 events
- 11
Confession and Connection
During their drive, Aubrey confesses she has broken things off with Ronny, paving the way for intimacy. They share a kiss, solidifying their emotional bond and marking a new chapter in their relationship.
Where:During the drive
- 12
Significant Night In
The following night presents an opportunity for Dave to visit Aubrey while her parents are out. Despite some hesitation, their chemistry leads to an intimate moment that complicates their feelings and the path forward.
When:Following night Where:Aubrey's home
- 13
Navigating Relationship Challenges
In the days that follow, Dave seeks advice from Simon and Big Corporation, who offer contrasting views on how to handle his feelings for Aubrey. This reinforces Dave's resolve to pursue a real relationship despite the challenges they face.
- 14
Public Display of Affection
As Dave and Aubrey arrive at school together, she surprises him by running back to plant a kiss on him. This triumphant moment bridges the previous uncertainties and cements their romantic connection.
Where:School
Who Are the Main Characters in The First Time?
4 characters, among them Dave (Dylan O'Brien), Aubrey (Brittany Robertson) and Jane (Victoria Justice): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Dave (Dylan O'Brien)
Played by Dylan O'Brien
Dave is a young, relatable protagonist grappling with his feelings as he navigates the complexities of teenage romance. His character reflects vulnerability and the search for deeper connections, showcasing his emotional growth throughout the story. Dave’s loyalty and determination to pursue Aubrey highlight his desire for authenticity in relationships.
- 💼 Student
- ❤️ Romantic
- 🤔 Insecure
-
Aubrey (Brittany Robertson)
Played by Brittany Robertson
Aubrey is an enigmatic and charming character who captures Dave's heart, embodying both allure and mystery. Her initial reluctance to reveal her past relationships adds depth to her character, showcasing her complexity and the layers of her emotions. As the narrative progresses, her candid conversations with Dave reveal her vulnerability amidst romantic turmoil.
- 🎀 Student
- 🌟 Charismatic
- 💞 Romantic
-
Jane (Victoria Justice)
Played by Victoria Justice
Jane serves as a catalyst in Dave's life, representing an initial infatuation that contrasts with his budding feelings for Aubrey. Her interactions with Dave help him realize what he truly desires, thus playing a pivotal role in his emotional trajectory. Jane’s character adds a layer of complication to the love story, illustrating the challenges of teenage relationships.
- 🎬 Cinematic Interest
- 💔 Love Interest
- 🎉 Partygoer
-
Ronny (James Frecheville)
Played by James Frecheville
Ronny is Aubrey’s boyfriend who inadvertently becomes an obstacle in the blossoming romance between Dave and Aubrey. His presence creates tension and challenges, forcing Dave to confront his feelings and desires. Ronny’s role adds dramatic tension to the narrative, highlighting the complexities of love triangles during adolescence.
- 💔 Rival
- 🏆 Competitive
- 🎭 Dramatic
Where and When Is The First Time Set?
The First Time is set in Aubrey's home, cinema and Brianna's place (Contemporary, present day). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Contemporary, present day
Set in a modern context, the film captures the essence of youthful romance and the complexities of relationships. The narrative explores weekend social outings and the implications of teenage interactions in today's society, where emotions run high and communication plays a crucial role in connecting characters.
Where
Aubrey's home, cinema, Brianna's place
The movie takes place in various intimate locations, including Aubrey's cozy home, where significant moments between the main characters occur. The cinema serves as a pivotal setting, connecting Dave and Aubrey through shared experiences. Brianna's place is another social hub where friendships and tensions unfold during a party environment.
- 🏠 Home
- 🎬 Cinema
- 🎉 Party
What Are the Themes of The First Time?
2 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Romance and Self-discovery.
-
01
Romance
The story is rooted in the exploration of young love, capturing the excitement of first connections and budding relationships. Dave's journey of self-discovery and his growing feelings for Aubrey highlight the emotional rollercoaster of teenage romance. The complexities of love are further emphasized through Dave’s struggles with jealousy and competition with Ronny.
-
02
Self-discovery
Throughout the film, both Dave and Aubrey embark on journeys of self-discovery, navigating their feelings towards each other and their past relationships. Dave's introspection about his emotions and desires illustrates the universal struggle of understanding oneself in the face of romantic challenges. Their shared experiences allow them to grow individually and together.
What Kind of Film Is The First Time?
Hopeful in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Low
- Ending
- Happy
A tender and sweet coming-of-age film that captures the hopeful awkwardness of first love, following two high schoolers through a whirlwind weekend of connection, vulnerability, and youthful discovery.
- awkward
- tender
- hopeful
- sweet
- nostalgic
- youthful
- coming of age
- first love
- teenage romance
- virginity
Content notes: implied sex, alcohol consumption.
Quiz
How well do you remember The First Time? Test yourself on the story.
