Set in a world run by people named Tom, Tim stands in line, waiting to be admitted to a comedy show put on by a group called "The Toms." Because he is not named Tom, the bouncer does not let him in to the show. The interaction quickly grows tense as Tim tries to convince them to let him in, and the other Toms in the crowd threaten Tim, chasing him away as Tim fears for his life. After this experience, Tim decides to transform into a Tom to gain access to their secret society. Tim returns to the comedy club, presents his fake ID along with his new appearance, and gains access to the show. But Tim is quickly found out once inside the club, and he must fight for his life in an attempt to be accepted.

Kate, Anton, and Keith, three young artists in New York's art scene of the early 1980s. An intimate glimpse into the creative and emotional lives of the young and carefree. They party, photograph, paint, sing, and play their way through the clubs and lofts of Alphabet City. The party ends in 1984 when Anton and Keith contract a mysterious illness known as the "gay cancer." As her music career takes off, Kate tries to save her friends.