32 opiniones
Human Dignity + Compassion = PEACE. That's Mr. Simon's (Ed Harris) award-winning four-word solution to world peace. Unfortunately, children are cruel, and there isn't even peace in his 1965 junior high classroom. "That's What I Am" is narrated by an adult Andy Nichol, who, as an awkward 13 year-old is popular enough that he gets bypassed by the bullies but he wouldn't want to jeopardize that by socializing with the outcasts. This is just a coming-of-age story, but it's personal, based on a true story, and completely realistic that the lessons are meaningful, not corny. This isn't just about teenagers struggling with the awkward phases of life, or about playing up bullying for laughs, there are serious undertones to the maliciousness of kids. And it's all too real. Mr. Simon is the best teacher in the state of California (and there are awards to prove it). He does what he can to bring peace to the world. He pairs up Andy with Big G, the tall, skinny red-head who gets tormented each day. Big G, however, doesn't let that get to him. That doesn't deter the bullies, but Big G has an inner strength that allows him to stay true to himself. Andy is inspired by that. And so am I. It tries to teach tolerance and being true to one's self, but does so through a beautifully-told, coming-of-age story that is more adult in nature than juvenile. The events that occurred were real, and had serious implications to the well-being of society. It has taken society a lot longer to be tolerant than we would like; "That's What I Am" doesn't trivialize it but focuses on the personal, positive resolutions that the good characters come to. It's real, but we also get to see the Andys of the world get the girl. I like that kind of world.
- napierslogs
- 15 may 2011
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Great performances by Ed Harris and entire cast that she'd light on bullying and growing up as a kid..Molly Parker really stole our hearts throughout the engaging and warm movie. And McG with his akwardness and charismatic ways had us on his side the entire film. Truly a well made film by WWE and they should make more films like this as opposed to their lesser Genre's. Remarkably made and great ending .Overall this motion picture had a very thought provoking message. I especially like the ending credits of where they are all now and by the way the Swedish Supermodel Yvette is the Famous model Yvette Rachelle. I highly recommend this movie for all ages as it has a great lesson to be learned by folks of all ages.
- porschemph
- 15 abr 2012
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what a refreshing film! though of course somewhat derivative (what schoolteacher drama is not these days!?) That's What I Am still manages to surprise and even delight in moments. I wandered into the Quad cinema looking for whatever was playing on a Sun afternoon, so expectations were very low, and I had not heard of this film--upon seeing the poster almost decided to read a book instead. but I went in, and very glad that I did. Ed harris is fantastic as the teacher we all wished we had. But the conflict of the story does not end in some far fetched deus ex machina, and yet...it paints a redeeming picture of humanity despite an equally visible and counter-vailing reality of distrust and salem witch hunting. I would recommend this for all ages (middle school and up) and think you will find it to be a very rewarding way to spend a couple of hours. I hope this film goes forward so more can see it.
- kwatinetz
- 1 may 2011
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Well i guess if you continue doing something eventually you will get better at it. Now i don't know if its either the cast hired on here or the WWE writers like i said are just getting better at it? Needless to say it was the best movie i have seen by the WWE as of yet. Actually it should be one i would suggest school's to acquire a copy of to show to their different class full of children as its portrays a great message on how to handle certain topics that unfortunately rear their ugly heads from time and time again. Homosexuality, bully ism and all prejudice against them. Now myself being a huge fan of the WWE's wrestling end of things i was brilliantly surprised by Randy Orton's role in this (even though if it is 5-10mins in total) film. I have seen Dwayne Johnson in the WWE's first feature Walking Tall, I even gave Cena a bit of credit for last year's Legendary but just watching Orton on screen and he just looked so natural doing it. I know there is a certain amount of acting in wrestling however they are not the best of actors however Randy seems like if he wanted to seriously think of another career if he ever got seriously injured he could quite definitely rely on acting to foot the bills. After some school bullies cannot get to their intended targets in school they take it upon themselves and make a compliant to their parents about the sexuality of their teacher Mr. Simon (Ed Harris) this causes a a parent in general who is much like his son to complain to the principal. So as you see the storyline just doesn't sit with the kids as the adults get a learning lesson throughout as well. Good family sit down movie!
- thekyles99
- 27 may 2011
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What the heck just happened? The WWE logo comes on, and a serious drama comes on. Is this a new effort to broaden out the WWE brand? This is a coming-of-age story of 12 year old Andy Nichol (Chase Ellison) in 1965. He's a normal kid who's trying to survive school when Mr. Simon (Ed Harris) forces Andy with the school's biggest outcast the quiet giant red head Stanley (Alexander Walters).
Writer/Director Michael Pavone must have binge watched "The Wonder Years". This was filled with all the clichés, all the bully, all the first love drama, and even has the iconic older-self narration. Everything is jammed in there that it felt much more derivative than it needed to be. However to say something is derived from an icon like "The Wonder Years" isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Writer/Director Michael Pavone must have binge watched "The Wonder Years". This was filled with all the clichés, all the bully, all the first love drama, and even has the iconic older-self narration. Everything is jammed in there that it felt much more derivative than it needed to be. However to say something is derived from an icon like "The Wonder Years" isn't necessarily a bad thing.
- SnoopyStyle
- 7 sep 2013
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"That's what I am" (2011 DVD), writer, singer, whatever you want to be, favored English teacher Mr. Simon (Ed Harris) encourages 1965 students in their dreams. He pairs our Grade 8 narrator Andy (Chase Ellison) with Big G. (Alexander Walters), ginger, big-eared, for their big project. Stanley stands a foot taller than all, defends his fellow geeks, especially his best friend, the smallest student Norman (Daniel Yelsky), with dignity against the bullies. Andy learns tolerance, compassion, and resolve while pursuing his crush, the womanly ideal Mary (Mia Rose Frampton). Adults are drawn as individuals, larger than stereotypes: kind mother (Molly Parker), computer-literate father (Daniel Roebuck), concerned principal (Amy Madigan) who begs Mr. Simon to deny career-crushing rumor from a bully's parents.
- AnEyeSpy
- 16 oct 2011
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- drpakmanrains
- 21 may 2011
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This is a type of a movie where you don't realize how great it is until the ending scene. No matter how movies like this one ends you'll end up crying(or not) because you feel as if you actually were with them trough all that happened. It doesn't matter if the movie has a happy or sad ending, you'll just be touched with the ending anyway!
It shows a classic example of American schools in the 1950s. We follow the story of the school boy Andy who's assigned to write a report with the biggest victim of bullying in school. Believing that he'll just have to finish the report and then be done with even talking to the loser, he ends up learning a lesson of a lifetime.
The movie is about finding out who you are and accepting who others are. It's about school, friendship and falling in love at a young age.
It shows a classic example of American schools in the 1950s. We follow the story of the school boy Andy who's assigned to write a report with the biggest victim of bullying in school. Believing that he'll just have to finish the report and then be done with even talking to the loser, he ends up learning a lesson of a lifetime.
The movie is about finding out who you are and accepting who others are. It's about school, friendship and falling in love at a young age.
- bergenlive
- 3 sep 2012
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A coming-of-age story that follows 12-year-old Andy Nichol (Chase Ellison), a bright student who, like most kids his age, will do anything to avoid conflict for fear of suffering overwhelming ridicule and punishment from his junior high school peers.
That's what I am is a WWE film, which caught my attention because the film was actually amazing! The film, acting, and everything is all very real and captures middle school just as it is. I was very surprised by this and wish the average was a little higher than a 7. Parents to kids: The film touches very deep and suggestive materials that some might find no suitable. Not a problem for me, but as seeing how people can get a little strict about that stuff, just calling it out there. The acting is very good and very real and they took as I can see a long time trying to capture the emotions. Not really that great as I put it, but they did a very well job. And even to add on to that, this is a WWE film which is a big step up for them and if they could continue making movies like this, that'd be great. So. I highly recommend this to anyone who well has good taste in movies and can learn to surpass the WWE sign popping up before the movie. 7/10.
That's what I am is a WWE film, which caught my attention because the film was actually amazing! The film, acting, and everything is all very real and captures middle school just as it is. I was very surprised by this and wish the average was a little higher than a 7. Parents to kids: The film touches very deep and suggestive materials that some might find no suitable. Not a problem for me, but as seeing how people can get a little strict about that stuff, just calling it out there. The acting is very good and very real and they took as I can see a long time trying to capture the emotions. Not really that great as I put it, but they did a very well job. And even to add on to that, this is a WWE film which is a big step up for them and if they could continue making movies like this, that'd be great. So. I highly recommend this to anyone who well has good taste in movies and can learn to surpass the WWE sign popping up before the movie. 7/10.
- theinaniloquent
- 8 oct 2011
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Brilliant way to identify humanity, this movie will surely touch your heart and storm your mind, what is wrong with big G , is he bad only because he has big body features ?? Does it worth to have a smooth touch for someone who really need it ?? Do we have to be so rude to be special or simply search for the meaning of humanity and become a real human ?? Ed Harris was not just acting as a teacher he was really teaching all of us that human dignity means peace and humanity. Looking for real friends is not so difficult, friendship is not a word but an act and this vision is translated into a superb acting between Norman and Big G. I was really touched deeply by this movie and I recommend it for everyone.
- ShadyBarsoum
- 11 abr 2012
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There are so many "coming of age" stories out there now so do we really need another one? Yes, if it's done well and That's What I Am gets my vote for another addition to the genre.
Right of the bat the opening narration and the time setting reminded me of The Wonder Years, an excellent coming of age series set in the 60s. I felt I was in familiar territory and wondered if this would follow the episodes of TWY, where an older Kevin would narrate a particular episode in his young life which ended with a valuable lesson being learned. I wasn't to be disappointed as there are quite a few lessons this movie teaches: prejudice, courage, dignity, friendship, honour and tolerance.
The story's about a young "cool" kid being paired off with a social outcast, something which he's not very happy about. It might not sound like the most interesting premise and one would think that the movie would focus on their blossoming friendship but that's far from the truth. Instead, the story uses that point to focus on other issues in the 60s, issues that are mainstream and accepted today as norms but back then were new, and something to fear. There are several light moments, some dark ones, and some tear inducing moments that come at the right time and are just enough to make you smile and be glad that you watched the movie.
The acting is very good all round. Ed Harris, the most known name in the movie, is excellent in his somewhat supporting role. And that's the way it should be because the movie's about the kids in the school and not him, just in the way the movie's not all about Andy and Big G. One thing seems to remain the same...the social classes in schools back then were no different to those today. Sure, there were no EMO kids, no Goths, or preppy kids but there were still distinctions that are not so different from what we see in modern set teen high school movies.
All in all, this is definitely one to watch. If you liked The Wonder Years then you should definitely watch this movie as you'll feel right at home. This is one coming of age movie that will make you smile, and cry, and smile some more.
Right of the bat the opening narration and the time setting reminded me of The Wonder Years, an excellent coming of age series set in the 60s. I felt I was in familiar territory and wondered if this would follow the episodes of TWY, where an older Kevin would narrate a particular episode in his young life which ended with a valuable lesson being learned. I wasn't to be disappointed as there are quite a few lessons this movie teaches: prejudice, courage, dignity, friendship, honour and tolerance.
The story's about a young "cool" kid being paired off with a social outcast, something which he's not very happy about. It might not sound like the most interesting premise and one would think that the movie would focus on their blossoming friendship but that's far from the truth. Instead, the story uses that point to focus on other issues in the 60s, issues that are mainstream and accepted today as norms but back then were new, and something to fear. There are several light moments, some dark ones, and some tear inducing moments that come at the right time and are just enough to make you smile and be glad that you watched the movie.
The acting is very good all round. Ed Harris, the most known name in the movie, is excellent in his somewhat supporting role. And that's the way it should be because the movie's about the kids in the school and not him, just in the way the movie's not all about Andy and Big G. One thing seems to remain the same...the social classes in schools back then were no different to those today. Sure, there were no EMO kids, no Goths, or preppy kids but there were still distinctions that are not so different from what we see in modern set teen high school movies.
All in all, this is definitely one to watch. If you liked The Wonder Years then you should definitely watch this movie as you'll feel right at home. This is one coming of age movie that will make you smile, and cry, and smile some more.
- caiged
- 17 mar 2012
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I know this movie from WWE studio I jus got skeptical from very beginning. I thought that this movie will tell a story about a wrestler or something but surprisingly it was tell about Preteens story with all stuff like bullying, monkey love, etc. Complete with lovable teacher who will left at the end of the movie. I don't know is it true that the story is based on the true event, and I don't care either. I like it. Not bizzare but I got the message, I got the point. I smile, laugh, pitty, and angry when the movie want me to. That's mean it so entertaining. Even maybe this movie like they don't know who's the audience. It too annoying and cheese for adults but also it was too explicit for childrens...
- hadi-hermansyah49
- 25 jul 2018
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It's hard to not be struck by the obvious similarities between this movie and the television show The Wonder Years. The vintage setting, the baritone voice-over, the main character who survives middle school by avoiding bullies and geeks as much as possible, lusts for an 'out-of-his-league' girlfriend, and goes home to an un-user-friendly father and patient, loving mother.
This week's episode is about a red-haired geek who looks like one of the Walton children. He is paired up with the main character for a project by a wise teacher. Things go wrong, rumours fly, and accusations are made that the teacher is a 'homo'. I don't know what is more difficult to believe, that 13 year olds didn't know what a 'homo' was in 1965, or that bullies would cower in fear from a tall, skinny geek.
The movie isn't bad, it's probably even 'sweet' for those who didn't grow up on the Waltons and/or The Wonder Years and can't compare the productions. But it is undeniably maudlin and should be approached with caution. I know some will think I shouldn't have seen the film if I don't like these types of movies. That isn't the point. There are good and bad versions of this type of coming of age film and this is a middle-of-the-road version which is why I gave it 5 out of 10.
This week's episode is about a red-haired geek who looks like one of the Walton children. He is paired up with the main character for a project by a wise teacher. Things go wrong, rumours fly, and accusations are made that the teacher is a 'homo'. I don't know what is more difficult to believe, that 13 year olds didn't know what a 'homo' was in 1965, or that bullies would cower in fear from a tall, skinny geek.
The movie isn't bad, it's probably even 'sweet' for those who didn't grow up on the Waltons and/or The Wonder Years and can't compare the productions. But it is undeniably maudlin and should be approached with caution. I know some will think I shouldn't have seen the film if I don't like these types of movies. That isn't the point. There are good and bad versions of this type of coming of age film and this is a middle-of-the-road version which is why I gave it 5 out of 10.
- JonathanWalford
- 4 jun 2011
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"That's What I am" is a wonderful film that had a VERY limited run and died at the box office. It's very sad, as the film really was very touching and enjoyable....and it nearly earned a 9 from me.
Andy (Chase Ellison) is an 8th grader back in 1965 and like nearly all his classmates, they love their English teacher, Mr. Simon (Ed Harris). He's a very decent and compassionate man...and tries very hard to instill these values in his students. One of these actions is pairing up Andy with 'Big G' (Alexander Walters)...a very awkward and huge kid who only has a few friends. While Andy isn't Mr. Popularity or a tough kid, he likes being average and accepted...and he's worried that being paired with Big G will somehow destroy him image. The film is about this, some ugly rumors about Mr. Simon, and about being decent to each other.
There is a lot to this story, though it all boils down to this decency....kids learning to treat each other well and accepting the diversity in those around them. It does NOT come off as ultra-PC or preachy...just a lovely story with really nice acting. In many ways, it's like a drama merged with the TV show "The Wonder Years"...but with much more depth. Well worth seeing and, as usual, Harris is simply amazing.
Andy (Chase Ellison) is an 8th grader back in 1965 and like nearly all his classmates, they love their English teacher, Mr. Simon (Ed Harris). He's a very decent and compassionate man...and tries very hard to instill these values in his students. One of these actions is pairing up Andy with 'Big G' (Alexander Walters)...a very awkward and huge kid who only has a few friends. While Andy isn't Mr. Popularity or a tough kid, he likes being average and accepted...and he's worried that being paired with Big G will somehow destroy him image. The film is about this, some ugly rumors about Mr. Simon, and about being decent to each other.
There is a lot to this story, though it all boils down to this decency....kids learning to treat each other well and accepting the diversity in those around them. It does NOT come off as ultra-PC or preachy...just a lovely story with really nice acting. In many ways, it's like a drama merged with the TV show "The Wonder Years"...but with much more depth. Well worth seeing and, as usual, Harris is simply amazing.
- planktonrules
- 9 sep 2023
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i really cannot keep myself away from writing review here. this is one of a very few films that i would like to save it in my treasure box. every single character portrayed in this film are well played and lived up to their role. i really liked all the characters of this movie. i never liked almost all the characters in any movie before. my favorite character in this movie is obviously 'Mr.Simon'. there are many reasons why i like his character. the main reason is, i had an English teacher, who was very brilliant and every single student liked her. when 'Mr.Simon' said "i guess i just don't know how my private life has any bearing on my ability as a teacher" i couldn't help relating it to the situation my teacher had to face.. and other characters like 'Andy' 'Big G' 'Norman' every single character are very real.. which explains that it is a true story. The father son relationship between Andy and his dad was really good, which almost happens in every family. and the love story which runs in the movie between Andy and Mary is really lovable. the relationship between a teacher and a student is what attracted me the most. they say a teacher knows about a child better then its parents. it is very true. i witnessed it in this movie.. i really really liked this movie.
i believe every student, teacher and parents should watch this movie. it is a family movie with a story (a real story of course).!
a very beautiful movie with a wonderful cast and their amazing performance. i really couldn't find out any flaw in this movie.
so, "it is an AWESOME movie, and that's what it is.!"
i believe every student, teacher and parents should watch this movie. it is a family movie with a story (a real story of course).!
a very beautiful movie with a wonderful cast and their amazing performance. i really couldn't find out any flaw in this movie.
so, "it is an AWESOME movie, and that's what it is.!"
- johnnymax4
- 13 oct 2013
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- Dr_Coulardeau
- 25 ago 2012
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- lor_
- 6 feb 2011
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- Ken-20-23183
- 4 abr 2011
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This movie is excellent, Students in school could learn a lot and it would teach them what bulling and being down right mean can do to a person. spreading ugly rumors about a person In this movie a teacher who had great skills to teach and the students who loved him. Saying that he was gay, or in the movie a homo. Just because he never remarried after his wife died. No facts, just someone wanting to hurt a person. Being the person in school that was bullied, and beat up, by students I can relate to this movie totally. One never knows about the hidden talent another person has. As shown in the talent show in the movie. This movie is a real eye opener to people who bully, and are just down right mean to other people. wonderful movie. I totally enjoyed it.
- potternardia
- 23 may 2013
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- mickeypowell
- 30 may 2011
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I like it. Very much.
The first motif, I suppose is I am teacher. And Mr. Simon is, for each teacher, image of his best version.
Second , because Ed Neal does a real beautiful job.
For the admirable performance of kids and for high dose of realism of story.
Not less, for Joan d Arc lecture and for human dignity- compassion - peace formula. And for remind of dictature of parents and fair answer to an accusation based on revenge.
In short, a film who real matters . For moral lesson remind, for fair - precise definition of an age and status, for the honest portrait of bullying and for fine humor.
And, sure, for some drops of nostalgia.
The first motif, I suppose is I am teacher. And Mr. Simon is, for each teacher, image of his best version.
Second , because Ed Neal does a real beautiful job.
For the admirable performance of kids and for high dose of realism of story.
Not less, for Joan d Arc lecture and for human dignity- compassion - peace formula. And for remind of dictature of parents and fair answer to an accusation based on revenge.
In short, a film who real matters . For moral lesson remind, for fair - precise definition of an age and status, for the honest portrait of bullying and for fine humor.
And, sure, for some drops of nostalgia.
- Kirpianuscus
- 4 may 2024
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I had never heard of this movie, and it happened to be starting when I was channel surfing.
Everything about this is movie is wonderful. The story, the themes, the characters and the performances. Everything.
Appropriate for the entire family and thoroughly enjoyable for everyone.
Everything about this is movie is wonderful. The story, the themes, the characters and the performances. Everything.
Appropriate for the entire family and thoroughly enjoyable for everyone.
- asherdu
- 31 jul 2017
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- leftbanker-1
- 5 nov 2015
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The movie is about how time and opportunity helps us to define who we are. And who we become later, our ultimate destination. And how teachers, great teachers mean a lot and can show the way and recognize our potentials. Motivating and uplifting, also greatly elaborated and poetic language, which Andy is using to tell his tale. Romantic story line is also very endearing. Mary Clear is definitely a very special character in this movie, and Andy's travel through this tunnel from the boy to a man is very symbolic and exciting to watch. I really enjoyed the movie and found characters to be very realistic. Just go ahead and dream, over the limitations of your school walls, prejudices and bigots, or local bullies. Cause life is not what it seems, not what it is in those teenager years.
- marina_simakova
- 22 may 2015
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- markovd111
- 22 dic 2022
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