The film centers around four childhood friends—Samantha (played by Gaby Hoffmann), Roberta (played by Christina Ricci), Teeny (played by Thora Birch), and Chrissy (played by Ashleigh Aston Moore)—who grew up in a small town in Indiana during the early 1970s. The story unfolds as the four women, now in their thirties, reunite for the first time in years to support their friend Chrissy, who is pregnant and about to give birth.
As they reminisce about their childhood, the film flashes back to the summer of 1970 when the girls were 12 years old. Through a series of nostalgic vignettes, viewers witness the adventures and misadventures of the four friends as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, confront their fears, and forge lifelong bonds.
The girls embark on a quest to solve the mystery of a local woman named Dear Johnny (played by Brendan Fraser), who died tragically years earlier. Along the way, they experience a summer filled with laughter, tears, friendship, and self-discovery.
Interwoven with the girls’ coming-of-age journey is the story of their adult selves, as they grapple with the complexities of adulthood and the passage of time. Through heartwarming and bittersweet moments, the film explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the enduring power of childhood memories.
“Now and Then” is celebrated for its nostalgic depiction of the 1970s and its portrayal of the joys and challenges of growing up. The film’s ensemble cast delivers standout performances, capturing the innocence and wonder of youth with charm and authenticity. While it received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, “Now and Then” has since gained a dedicated following and is regarded as a beloved coming-of-age classic.