Very Good Girls (2014) Plot Summary & Timeline

As the sun-drenched summer of ‘92 begins to fade, best friends Lilly and Gerri set off on a carefree escapade through the lively streets of New York City. Their blissful days overflow with laughter and spontaneity as they wander along Brighton Beach, debating whether to let go of their inhibitions, quite literally. Without a hint of hesitation, Gerri takes a bold leap, shedding her shirt and splashing into the waves, which prompts Lilly, albeit more cautiously, to embrace the same daring spirit.

On their way home, they serendipitously cross paths with David, a charming ice cream vendor who inadvertently captures Lilly’s essence through his camera lens. Yet as they part ways, Lilly is faced with the stark realities of her family life—discovering her father in a compromising situation with an enigmatic woman and enduring her mother’s frosty attitude. Despite her family’s turmoil, Lilly finds comfort within Gerri’s playful and accepting family dynamic.

As Lilly manages her responsibilities as a boat tour guide in Manhattan, David’s growing interest in her becomes evident. While Gerri harbors an affectionate fondness for him, neither girl fully comprehends the complexity of his nature as David’s invitation to Lilly incites both hesitation and ultimately leads to a tantalizing kiss that sparks a complicated web of emotions.

Lilly’s world spirals into turmoil when she learns of her father’s infidelity, coinciding with her mother’s ultimatum: “get out.” Amidst wrestling with these revelations, David emerges as an unexpected confidant, offering solace. Oblivious to Lilly’s inner struggles, Gerri invites her to a night filled with music and laughter at an open mic event, where she pens a heartfelt song in hopes of impressing David.

As the open mic night unfolds, David secretly harbors a crush on Lilly, stealing subtle glances throughout the evening. Gerri’s heart resonates with the music while Lilly grapples with her emerging feelings for David, conflicted by the haunting memories of her family’s dysfunction. The tension peaks with a sneaky rendezvous in the garage—an escape from the inevitable chaos looming.

The following morning, Lilly confronts her father once again, but his apologies fall upon deaf ears. As she navigates the complexities of adult life, David becomes a vital presence, sneaking into her bathroom window before they embark on an exhilarating day through the city’s vibrant streets. Their adventures lead them to a basketball court, where a charismatic performer strips to his underwear and dances freely, attracting an audience of enthralled onlookers, including David, who immortalizes the moment on camera.

Tragedy strikes later when Lilly learns of Gerri’s father’s untimely death, a devastating collapse in the subway tunnel. With a heavy heart, she deprioritizes her plans with David to support Gerri in her time of need. Their shared sorrow ignites a profound conversation, prompting Lilly to seek forgiveness from her mother on behalf of her father. Meanwhile, Gerri confides her ongoing obsession with David, revealing how hard it is for her to dislodge thoughts of him.

As the days unfold, guilt eats away at Lilly for her previous actions, leading her to reject David’s outreach for reconciliation. The tension escalates when David confronts her directly, yet Lilly redirects him toward Gerri, urging him to console her instead. Unbeknownst to Lilly, a pivotal moment is about to unravel in the backyard—one that is destined to change the dynamic between these three intertwined lives.

At Gerri’s father’s memorial service, truths come to light when Gerri confesses to Lilly that she lost her virginity to none other than David. This startling revelation sends the ground beneath Lilly trembling, compelling her to momentarily seek comfort in her boss’s arms, only to backtrack mid-kiss once clarity strikes. The next day, Lilly confronts David about his alleged betrayal, but he remains stoic, leaving her feeling unfulfilled and unheard. In a moment of desperation, Lilly fabricates a story about a romantic encounter with her boss, yet David continues to be unaffected.

Suddenly, Gerri breaks the shocking news that David is preparing to depart for Paris, which leaves Lilly torn between relief and betrayal. In her emotional turmoil, she seeks out David, confessing that she never truly slept with her boss. The atmosphere thickens with tension as David delivers a stern admonition about emotional manipulation before he vanishes into the night.

Gerri, always perceptive, overhears their exchange and simmers with indignation. While Lilly begins mending her relationship with her father, he prompts her to seek forgiveness, advice she chooses not to follow.

Finally, the day of Lilly’s college departure dawns, carrying with it a bittersweet farewell. Gerri surprises her at the door, clutching a photograph sent by David—a poignant emblem of their resilient bond, which remains unbroken despite the distance. Ultimately, Gerri clarifies that she never truly slept with David, as he had disclosed he was already infatuated with someone else. Coming to terms with the truth, the girls set aside their differences and shed their inhibitions, relishing a jubilant moment of liberation in the sprinklers as their laughter rings out, propelling them into an exciting new chapter of their lives.