That's What I Am

"That's What I Am" is a heartwarming coming-of-age story set in 1965 California. Andy Nichol, a bright 12-year-old student, is paired with Stanley "Big G" Minors, the school's reject, for a project assigned by their teacher, Mr. Steven Simon. As they work together, Andy and Stanley form a close bond despite their differences. Meanwhile, a rumor spreads that Mr. Simon is a homosexual, and the school's Bullies, including Jason Freel, threaten to expose him. Andy stands up to Jason and asks Mary Clear, his crush, to go steady, but Ricky Brown, Mary's ex-boyfriend threatens him. At the school talent show which Andy realizes that Norman Gunmeyer isn't there so he decides to go to Norman's house to ask him personally. When Stanley starts to perform, Ricky has a tomato in his hand but Andy stops him and even kicks him in the groin resulting in Mr. Simon congratulating him instead of punishing him. On the other hand, it's revealed that Mr. Simon is moving to Florida and despite Andy's effort to stop him; Andy along with his English class surprise him by putting flowers in his car. The film explores themes of tolerance bullying acceptance love and courage in an entertaining yet thought-provoking manner.

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Some movies that have similar genres and were produced around the same time as That's What I Am include A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song, Hello Ghost, What if..., Feast, RV, Kapoor & Sons.

That's What I Am was released in theaters on April 29, 2011.