That's What I Am

That's What I Am

Year: 2011

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Pavone

Comedy

In 1960s California, a timid 12-year-old named Andy Nichol finds his quiet life disrupted when he's partnered with the popular and unconventional "Big G" for a vital school project. Initially hesitant, Andy gradually sees beyond Big G's quirky personality, uncovering a kind, intelligent, and empathetic person. Through their collaboration, Andy learns the importance of accepting differences and finding connection with those who seem unlike him, ultimately broadening his perspective on friendship and individuality.

Hopeful
Bittersweet ending
Moderately emotional
Medium intensity
Steady pacing
Simple story

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Timeline & Setting – That's What I Am (2011)

Explore the full timeline and setting of That's What I Am (2011). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1965

The movie takes place in 1965, a time marked by significant cultural changes and evolving social norms in America. This era saw rising tensions surrounding issues of identity and acceptance, laying the groundwork for more open discussions about personal freedom and expression. The backdrop of the 1960s serves as a critical reflection of the characters' struggles and triumphs.

Location

California, Jefferson Middle School

Jefferson Middle School is a typical American middle school set in California during the 1960s. It serves as the central hub for the students' journey and growth, known for its vibrant social dynamics and challenges that shape adolescence. The school atmosphere is both a microcosm of societal issues and a landscape for personal discovery.

🏫 School 🌅 California

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:06

Main Characters – That's What I Am (2011)

Meet the key characters of That's What I Am (2011), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Andy "Andy" Nichol

Andy is a well-adjusted schoolboy who finds himself in a life-changing friendship with the school's outcast. He embodies a spirit of bravery and loyalty, often standing up for what is right, even in daunting circumstances. Throughout the film, he navigates the challenges of adolescence, including romance and peer pressure, all while demonstrating resilience.

👦 Student 💔 Romantic 🦸‍♂️ Hero

Stanley "Big G" Minors

Stanley is the school's outcast who surprises everyone by discovering his hidden talent for singing. His character represents the struggle against societal expectations and bullying, ultimately showcasing the beauty of pursuing one's passions. As he grows through the story, Stanley learns the value of friendship and self-acceptance.

🎤 Talented 🆕 Growing 💪 Resilient

Mr. Steven Simon

Mr. Simon is a teacher whose personal life becomes the center of controversy within the school. He remains steadfast in the face of gossip, emphasizing professionalism and integrity. His journey impacts the students profoundly, as he instills values of respect and courage in them, leaving a lasting impression.

👨‍🏫 Teacher 🌈 Role Model 🙏 Supportive

Jason Freel

Jason is depicted as the notorious school bully who exploits rumors for personal gain. His character emphasizes the darker side of adolescence and the impact of peer pressure. Despite his antagonistic role, he serves as a catalyst for the growth and courage of other characters.

👊 Bully 💔 Antagonist 😡 Provocative

Mary Clear

Mary is the girl of Andy's dreams and a symbol of young love in the film. She navigates her own conflicts, especially with her ex-boyfriend Ricky, showing strength and empathy. Mary's character illustrates the complexities of teenage relationships and the importance of standing up for oneself.

❤️ Romantic Interest 👩‍🎤 Strong 💔 Conflict

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:06

Major Themes – That's What I Am (2011)

Explore the central themes of That's What I Am (2011), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤝 Friendship

The theme of friendship is central to the story, particularly the unexpected bond between Andy and Stanley. Their partnership illustrates how genuine connections can flourish despite differences in background and social standing. Throughout their journey, the two navigate challenges together, reinforcing the importance of support and understanding.

🗣️ Acceptance

Acceptance plays a crucial role in the narrative, both through the characters' journeys and the overarching societal issues. The film confronts the perceptions of individuality and the resilience needed to stand against bullying and prejudice. It highlights the importance of embracing one's identity and the value of supporting one another in the face of adversity.

🎤 Courage

Courage is showcased through various characters as they face their fears and take stands for their beliefs. Andy's determination to pursue his feelings for Mary amid bullying represents a significant act of bravery. Similarly, Stanley's decision to perform in the talent show highlights the courage required to step outside one's comfort zone and pursue one's passions.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:06

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Bittersweet Coming-of-Age Movies Like That's What I Am

Stories of youthful self-discovery marked by both heartache and hopeful change.If you liked the heartfelt and reflective journey in That's What I Am, explore these other movies about growing up. They share a nostalgic tone, medium emotional weight, and bittersweet endings that acknowledge loss while celebrating the hope of new beginnings, much like similar coming-of-age stories.

nostalgicheartfeltreflectivebittersweethopefulcoming of ageemotional

Narrative Summary

These narratives typically follow a young protagonist through a defining period, often a single school year, where they confront social pressures, learn difficult truths about people, and ultimately emerge with a broader, more empathetic worldview. The journey is linear and character-driven, focusing on internal change over external plot.

Why These Movies?

They are grouped by their shared ability to evoke a specific nostalgic feeling, blending the sadness of leaving childhood behind with the hopeful excitement of becoming oneself. The tone is consistently reflective and heartfelt, with a steady pacing that allows the emotional lessons to land effectively.

Movies About Unlikely Friendships Like That's What I Am

Heartwarming bonds formed between outsiders that defy social expectations.Fans of That's What I Am will appreciate these films that center on transformative friendships between unlikely pairs. These movies explore how connection can bridge differences, challenge prejudice, and teach valuable lessons about courage and acceptance, similar to the dynamic between Andy and Big G.

heartfeltupliftingtensehopefulfriendshipacceptancecourageagainst the grain

Narrative Summary

The plot is often catalyzed by a forced partnership or shared goal. The central arc follows the characters overcoming initial biases and external social pressure to build a genuine bond. The resolution typically involves a public act of solidarity, validating the friendship and its lessons for the surrounding community.

Why These Movies?

These movies share a core narrative pattern and thematic focus on empathy and courage. They create a specific hopeful vibe by showing how human connection can triumph over prejudice, often within a school or community setting, delivering an uplifting message through a straightforward, character-driven story.

Unlock the Full Story of That's What I Am

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That's What I Am Summary

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That's What I Am Summary

That's What I Am Timeline

Track the full timeline of That's What I Am with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

That's What I Am Timeline

That's What I Am Spoiler-Free Summary

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That's What I Am Spoiler-Free Summary

More About That's What I Am

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about That's What I Am: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About That's What I Am

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