To Be Fat Like Me

Aly, a confident softball standout dependent on a college scholarship, is playing in a high-stakes game. An opposing player steps on her knee, causing a painful injury that jeopardizes her scholarship prospects. The accident forces her to confront an uncertain future and rethink her path to college.

It’s revealed that Aly’s mother has long battled weight issues and depression, culminating in a medical crisis that drains their finances. The money set aside for Aly’s college fund is used to pay for treatment. Aly resents this decision and senses a betrayal from her family.

Facing funding uncertainty, Aly decides to enter a documentary contest with a large cash prize. She resolves to go undercover, donning a fat suit and facial prosthetics to appear overweight, hoping to prove that personality can outweigh appearance.

Aly implements her disguise and starts attending school as a visibly overweight student. She carries a hidden camera to document interactions, aiming to show that character matters more than looks.

Disguised as a heavier student, Aly experiences real mistreatment and social shunning from her peers. Her initial intent to stay kind and true to herself is tested by the cruelty she encounters.

Aly befriends Ramona, another overweight classmate who shares parts of her life and supports her. Their conversations reveal shared struggles and vulnerabilities, creating a rare bond under the cover.

Ramona discovers Aly’s true identity and learns that their conversations have been secretly filmed for the documentary. The revelation leaves Ramona feeling betrayed and complicates their fragile trust.

Aly names the project Fat Like Me, selecting a provocative reference to Black Like Me to signal the exploration of appearance versus inner worth. The title frames the film’s mission and stakes.

Disguised and attending a house party, Aly tests how her ‘fat’ persona is treated by friends. She is shocked to find that they still look down on her and talk behind her back because of her appearance.

Towards the party’s end, Aly unmasks herself in front of everyone to reveal the truth about her deception. The moment forces a confrontation about authenticity, appearance, and belonging.

Aly reconciles with her mother and confesses her deception to Ramona and the audience. She tells Ramona she intends to drop out of the contest, hoping for a clean break and healing.

Ramona confronts Aly, arguing that if she truly wants to make amends, she should stay in the competition and finish what she started. She hints that winning could open a path to real friendship, offering hope for the future.