In the quiet suburbs of Dublin, teenage Lily seems to lead an enviable life. With loving middle-class parents, close friends, and impressive athletic talent in Camogie, Ireland’s unique stick-based sport, Lily’s exterior suggests normalcy. But a transformative experience during a school exchange program in San Francisco begins to unravel her identity, leaving her questioning her sexuality. A fleeting yet powerful connection with another girl ignites feelings Lily struggles to articulate.
Returning to school, Lily’s attempt at exploring her identity turns sour. Her friend Violet, under the guise of solidarity, initiates an intimate encounter but later distances herself, painting Lily as the instigator. The betrayal quickly spirals into relentless bullying, pushing Lily into isolation and self-harm. Her only source of support comes from Simon, the openly gay boy in their small community, whose warmth and humor become a lifeline. Together, they escape to Dublin—a city bustling with vibrancy yet equally riddled with shadows.
In Dublin, the pair meets Oonagh, a jaded yet empathetic figure in the local queer scene. Oonagh offers Lily and Simon both guidance and a glimpse into a world where being queer is not just tolerated but celebrated. However, their journey is not without darker encounters. They cross paths with exploitative figures, hinting at the vulnerabilities faced by queer youth navigating spaces not always designed for their safety.
The film unflinchingly tackles heavy themes—bullying, parental rejection, mental health struggles, and the fragile lines between acceptance and survival. Yet, it’s the sincerity of Lily and Simon’s bond that shines brightest. Their friendship stands as a beacon of resilience in an otherwise turbulent narrative.
For the queer community, stories like Lily’s serve as both a mirror and a reminder. They reflect the harsh realities of societal rejection but also underline the unyielding spirit of queer youth who continue to seek love, friendship, and belonging against all odds.
A heartfelt drama explores a teen’s queer awakening amidst bullying, friendship, and self-discovery in modern Dublin.
