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That's What I Am 2011

Runtime

101 min

Language

English

English

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.

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.

Does That's What I Am have end credit scenes?

No!

That's What I Am does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of That's What I Am

Explore the complete cast of That's What I Am, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


No actors found

Ratings and Reviews for That's What I Am

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Metacritic

53

Metascore

5.6

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

55%

TOMATOMETER

review

68%

User Score

IMDb

7.0 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

68

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.2

From 5 fan ratings

Movie Insider

4.29/5

From 24 fan ratings

Take the Ultimate That's What I Am Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of That's What I Am with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


That's What I Am Quiz: Test your knowledge about the poignant and transformative journey of Andy and Stanley in 'That's What I Am'.

What year is the setting of the movie?

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for That's What I Am

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Read the complete plot summary of That's What I Am, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


In 1965, at California’s Jefferson Middle School, the fates of two students from entirely different backgrounds converge on a profound and life-changing journey. Andy “Andy” Nichol, a well-adjusted schoolboy, unexpectedly finds himself partnered with Stanley “Big G” Minors, the school’s outcast, for a project set by their teacher, Mr. Steven Simon. As they collaborate, they cultivate an unlikely friendship that transcends their academic assignment.

Meanwhile, a rumor begins to ripple through the school, quickly escalating into a wildfire of whispers regarding Mr. Simon’s alleged homosexuality. Jason Freel, the school’s notorious bully, seizes the opportunity to stir the pot by sharing the gossip with his father. This alarming news makes its way to the principal, who confronts Mr. Simon directly. With a poised and steadfast demeanor, he expresses that one’s personal affairs should not overshadow their professional persona, neither confirming nor denying the swirling rumors.

As tensions rise, Jason’s father threatens to expose the alleged ‘truth’ to the entire community, threatening to tarnish Mr. Simon’s reputation to mere conjecture. The atmosphere in the school becomes thick with uncertainty, forever altering the previously serene lives of Andy, Stanley, and their classmates due to this unexpected twist of fate.

As Andy navigates the intricate landscape of high school, he finds himself swept into a romantic whirlwind when Mary Clear, the girl of his dreams, begins to share his feelings. However, their delicate budding relationship faces a serious hurdle when Ricky Brown, Mary’s ex-boyfriend and the school bully, issues a chilling warning to Andy: if he dares to approach Mary, he will ensure Andy meets a devastating fate. Undaunted, Andy bravely asks Mary to be his girlfriend, and to his delight, she agrees—just as Ricky arrives, spoiling for a confrontation. But before tensions escalate, Mary steps in, asserting her boundaries and urging Ricky to back off and leave Andy alone.

In parallel, Stanley uncovers a hidden talent and declares his intention to participate in the school’s annual talent show, much to the chagrin of his best friend Norman Gunmeyer, who disapproves of such endeavors. Regardless of Norman’s skepticism, Stanley follows his passion. When the big night arrives, Andy notices Norman’s conspicuous absence and rides over to his house, attempting to coax him into attending and supporting their friend. After some resistance, Norman reluctantly agrees to join them.

As the drama unfolds, Ricky plots to sabotage Stanley’s performance by concealing a ripe tomato, prepared to ruin the unsuspecting singer’s moment. Fortunately, Andy catches him in the act and swiftly intervenes, deflecting the projectile and leaving Ricky in pain. To everyone’s surprise, Mr. Simon chooses not to discipline Andy, instead commending him for his heroism.

With the school year drawing to a close, Andy learns that Mr. Simon will be departing for Florida, ready to start anew. Despite Andy’s heartfelt pleas for him to stay, Mr. Simon remains firm in his decision. To show their appreciation, Andy and his classmates orchestrate a delightful send-off by filling Mr. Simon’s car with flowers, a gesture that reflects the profound impact he had on their lives.

In this evocative conclusion, the school’s yearbook blossoms with memories of the characters, offering a bittersweet window into the futures of each student as they embark on new journeys, leaving behind the trials and triumphs of their adolescent years.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for That's What I Am

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from That's What I Am. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


"That's What I Am" trailer

Cars Featured in That's What I Am

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Explore all cars featured in That's What I Am, including their makes, models, scenes they appear in, and their significance to the plot. A must-read for car enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.


Buick

1951

Special De Luxe

Chevrolet

1967

B-Series

Chevrolet

1962

Chevy II

Chevrolet

1960

Corvair

Chevrolet

1959

Impala

Chevrolet

1959

Task-Force

De

1955

Soto Fireflite

Ford

1966

F-Series

Ford

1965

Falcon

Pontiac

1965

Tempest LeMans

Movie Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


dignityostracismsuspected homosexualintolerancebullyingrumormonger1960sbullyprincipalcoming of agegay slurhomosexualitywriterhomophobiasocial outcastharassmenthumiliationsuspected of being gayfirst crushclassroomyear 1965teacher student relationshipreference to lucille ballmiddle schoolgirl wears eyeglassesman wears eyeglassesunfounded allegationslanderreference to joseph mccarthyreference to mccarthyismmccarthyismteenage boy8th gradeschool projectbelief in godcompassionoutcastrumorhomosexualmaking outkissprejudicegaynarratortolerancedental bracesfirst kisscrushcaliforniasmart

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