6 Month Rule 2012

Tyler’s life was a juggling act between capturing the perfect shot and navigating the complexities of romance. As a photographer who had published a book of his artistic work, he earned a living by snapping advertisements, but it was his passion project that truly brought him joy. While browsing at the local bookstore, Tyler struck up a conversation with a woman who shared his appreciation for art. Their connection was suddenly disrupted when an altercation broke out in the shop.

Tyler’s personal life was just as tumultuous. He had been casually dating Wendy, but their arrangement was built on a foundation of “The Rules,” which prohibited him from spending the night. Meanwhile, his oldest friend Alan was reeling from the failure of his three-year relationship with Claire. Tyler offered words of wisdom, reminding Alan that friendship was the only thing that truly endured.

When Alan called to commiserate, Tyler invited him over and revealed his philosophy on relationships: people only owe explanations if they’re in a committed partnership. Later, as he was preparing to meet with his agent Paul to discuss publicity photos with a musician, Tyler discovered that the gallery where the meeting would take place was owned by none other than Sophie, the woman who had caught his eye at the bookstore.

As fate would have it, Julian, Sophie’s partner, was also at the gallery, enthusiastically discussing their collaborative project. Although initially crestfallen, Tyler decided to bring Alan along to a party that Julian invited them to. Over drinks, Tyler confided in Alan about his feelings for Sophie, sharing his insights on the differences between “the girl you date” and “the perfect girl.” The former might make him feel at ease but ultimately leave him unsatisfied, while the latter would keep him on edge, uncertain, and vulnerable to heartbreak.

As Tyler finally managed to get Sophie alone, he accused her of playing it safe by being with Julian, claiming that she would never truly understand her. When Sophie revealed that they weren’t a couple after all, Tyler couldn’t resist the urge to kiss her. However, when he suggested they leave together, Sophie refused to hurt Julian.

The evening took an unexpected turn when Tyler reunited with a model at the party, courtesy of his agent. In front of Sophie, he suggested they head home together, but once there, he found himself unable to perform. The experience left him feeling frustrated and embarrassed. He burst into Alan’s apartment, still reeling from his emotional turmoil, and woke up his friend.

Alan listened patiently as Tyler poured out his heart, offering words of advice: it was time for Tyler to confess his true feelings to Sophie.

As Sophie’s studio becomes a sanctuary for emotional introspection, she finds herself entwined in a tangled web of feelings when Tyler (still reeling from his earlier apology) spends three consecutive days at her apartment, fostering a deep connection that transcends mere physical intimacy. Their bond grows stronger, as they engage in stimulating conversations and mutual understanding.

The following day, Tyler prepares for his photo shoot with Julian, while secretly orchestrating a double date to facilitate Alan’s romantic escapades. However, before the evening’s anticipated hookups can unfold, Julian reveals his intention to win Sophie back from whomever she’s been seeing – unbeknownst to Tyler, who is actually the object of her affections.

As Tyler follows Julian to Sophie’s place, he’s tormented by the knowledge that she’s invited this new suitor into her life. By the time Sophie arrives at their date, Tyler has succumbed to a paroxysm of jealousy, accusing her of betraying him with Julian. The ensuing confrontation ultimately leads to the dissolution of their relationship.

Seeking solace in Alan, Tyler finds his friend unyielding and unsympathetic, instead opting to confide in Wendy. However, she too rebuffs him, harboring a secret admiration for Tyler that has yet to be reciprocated.

Six months pass, during which time Tyler visits Alan at his new residence, only to discover an unexpected surprise: Wendy is now part of the picture. Her revelation that Julian has returned to town, with a performance scheduled for that evening, sets Tyler on a collision course with his past.

Confronting Sophie, Tyler is met with Julian’s gaze, which initially seems to gleam with pleasure upon seeing him. However, when Tyler reveals himself as “the other guy,” Julian launches a physical assault, resulting in Tyler’s hasty departure. Sophie follows him out, and in a poignant moment of candor, Tyler professes his love, sharing one final kiss before ultimately deciding that Sophie is too great a risk for her own heart.

In the aftermath, Tyler meets up with Alan and seeks refuge at their favorite watering hole, his perspective on relationships forever altered by the tumultuous events that have transpired.