As the climactic scene of "Dying For Sex" unfolds, Nikki (Jenny Slate) and Molly (Michelle Williams) find themselves engrossed in a delightful dog video online, their laughter echoing softly within their shared space. Outside, Sonya (Esco Jouley) informs Dr. Pankowitz (David Rasche) that she intends to explore certain options with Molly once their conversation concludes. Just then, Amy approaches the duo, intending to discuss hospice care, only to realize her timing is off as Dr. Pankowitz enters the room.
The doctor's solemn words paint a grim picture: the cancer has metastasized to Molly's spinal cord lining and brain, granting her mere weeks to months at best. Nikki, ever hopeful, suggests further treatments, but Molly gently declines, acknowledging the futility. With a poignant farewell to Dr. Pankowitz, Molly is gently ushered out of the hospital and into the comforting embrace of hospice care, where Amy assists her in settling in.
Sonya empowers Molly, reminding her that she's in charge here, free to communicate her preferences to Amy. Molly, less than impressed with the room's artwork, expresses her desire for a change of scenery. A call from her mother, Gail (Sissy Spacek), interrupts the moment, revealing her presence in the lobby. Gail, rushing in with open arms, envelops Molly in a tender hug as Nikki discreetly exits to give them privacy.
Later, Gail confides in Nikki, arranging for a cot so she can stay by Molly's side. She expresses gratitude for Nikki's unwavering support, sharing that Scotty, her lover, is caring for their dogs in her absence. As they bond over a puzzle, Gail's presence offers a comforting distraction for Molly, who watches on with a serene smile.
One day, Molly notices her hair has taken on a pink hue, a surprising yet gentle reminder of life's fleeting beauty. Amy initiates a conversation about the dying process, framing it as a natural bodily function akin to birth or elimination. She details the stages of active dying, from ketosis-induced euphoria to the body's gradual shutdown. Molly, curious yet unafraid, entrusts Nikki with the task of ensuring her mouth remains closed upon passing, to which Nikki playfully protests, fearing a bite.
When Amy mentions sedation, Molly resolutely declares her wish to experience every moment fully. Steve's (Jay Duplass) visit brings a mixture of emotions; he arrives wanting to share so much but finds himself speechless. In a heartfelt revelation, he informs Molly that Beth is pregnant.
Another day dawns with Molly waking to a surreal vision of objects floating around the room, a transcendental journey that reconnects her with loved ones in a profound way. Sharing this ethereal experience with Nikki later, Molly conveys a sense of peace, emphasizing that it isn't scary. Observing Molly's pain, Gail seeks Amy's guidance, who explains that clinging to life is common when loved ones are concerned or matters remain unresolved.
This nuanced portrayal captures not just the physical journey of dying but also the emotional and spiritual landscapes traversed by those facing mortality.
Molly confides in Nikki, expressing her desire to glimpse into the future, particularly to witness Nikki's later years. Nikki, painting a vivid picture, shares what lies ahead and wishes she could accompany Molly on that journey. She admits, however, that she hasn't yet shared this vision with Noah. Meanwhile, Molly finds a match on her dating app, sparking laughter when Gail catches them.
Later, Nikki engages in a puzzle session with a young boy, while Noah arrives unexpectedly, summoned by Gail. Molly had hoped Noah could add his percussion skills to her event. Nikki voices her frustration over Gail's intrusion into her privacy and bringing Noah there. Molly gently reminds Gail of her pledge to respect boundaries. Gail, mistaking the concern, suggests Molly is worried about leaving Nikki alone, which Nikki firmly dismisses.
Molly apologizes to Noah for bringing him into this midst of his life's reorganization. Her dying wish, she reveals, is for Noah to part ways with his girlfriend, unaware that they had already ended their relationship a week prior. In a private moment, Noah and Nikki converse deeply. Nikki admits she never thought she could love someone so deeply, but now knows she does. Noah, echoing similar sentiments from Winter's birth, listens intently. Nikki expresses her readiness to love someone until the end of their life, adding that she can now love Noah too. Noah, soon after, has to depart.
Molly and Gail, surrounded by music, embark on decorating the room. Nikki joins them, curious about the ongoing preparations. Molly reveals it's for a rally. Soon, Molly finds herself struggling in the bathtub, with Gail and Nikki lending a supportive hand. Despite initial optimism, Molly finds the experience painful rather than soothing. She tells Nikki she feels ready and Gail offers to consult Amy about sedation options, already anticipating Molly's possible requests.
Amy arrives with the first dose, but Molly downplays the situation, eager to proceed with her final journey. She laments the trips canceled due to ill health and now cherishes this trip solely for herself. As Amy administers the medication, Nikki expresses her love and gratitude for Molly, who reciprocates by declaring Nikki her favorite person in the world.
Molly drifts into sleep, time gently slipping away. Nikki stays by her side, gently closing her mouth as she passes. Later, Nikki oversees a play, with Noah and Winter joining her outdoors for a heartfelt reunion.
