That's What I Am

Coming-of-age stories charting the bittersweet years of adolescence have long provided fodder for popular films ("Stand by Me") and television shows ("The Wonder Years"). Such efforts pair nostalgia with observations on one of life's thorniest rites of passage. Writer-director Mike Pavone's autobiographical glimpse at his middle-school years, growing up in Southern California in the 1960s, offers an entertaining and quite touching portrait of the growing pains of 12-year-old Andy Nichol (Chase Ellison), a bright boy experiencing the pangs of first love with a young coquette, Mary (the hilarious Mia Rose Frampton), while learning to grapple with life's uglier realities. Explorations of homophobic attitudes among youngsters and their parents, as well high-school bullying, enrich this absorbing tale. At times, Pavone's myriad subplots would benefit from tighter narrative focus, yet the film ultimately satisfies, thanks to several memorable performances and the truths that emerge from the writer-director's subtly powerful depiction of dignity and courage.

A tentative friendship begins when Andy's wise and compassionate teacher, Mr. Simon (Ed Harris), matches him up with the campus's most beleaguered outcast, Stanley (the terrific Alexander Walters), nicknamed Big G for his ginger hair. Due to his big ears, tall stature, and generally geeky aura, Stanley is the object of much ridicule from cruel classmates, though he harbors unfulfilled talents. Andy is far more kindhearted than his thoughtless classmates, yet he shudders at the possible repercussions of being paired up with a young man who is a walking target for humiliation and violence.

When Mr. Simon takes a strong stand after an awkward girl—frequently chided by classmates as being full of "cooties"—is beaten by a student, the hoodlums retaliate by spreading the rumor that Mr. Simon is "a homo," resulting in hysteria among the local parents. Andy learns valuable lessons of tolerance and decency, thanks to the integrity and mettle of Stanley and Mr. Simon.

A marvelous group of young actors has been assembled to imbue this seriocomic story with honesty and wit. Ellison brings to his portrayal sensitivity and depth that seem beyond his years. As Andy faces his challenges, he grows substantially in a short time. The actor makes this transition fully believable and empathetic. Walters, reminiscent of young Ron Howard, is a genuine find, gracing his portrayal with intelligence and nuance, demonstrating how the character's resilience inspires awe in place of pity.

Harris is superb, projecting a nobility of spirit that never lapses into cloying. He's likely to remind many of their favorite schoolteacher: caring, giving, and unselfish. Amy Madigan is likewise on target, conveying the strength and high values of Principal Kelner, who learns a lesson when trying to persuade Mr. Simon to deny the allegations, which he insists on refusing to dignify with a response.

In exploring themes that are timely and timeless, this film is a sweetly evocative reminder that a little respect and kindness can work wonders at any age.

Genre: Comedy-Drama
Written and directed by: Mike Pavone
Starring: Ed Harris, Amy Madigan, Chase Ellison, Alexander Walters, Mia Rose Frampton