
Alienation
2014

Representation Score
Fair
1986
Runtime
27 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetNew Showbiz Analysis
What's Happening to Me? is a coming-of-age animation that stands out for its progressive racial representation in the 1980s. By centering a Black protagonist in a suburban environment, the film avoids common casting clichés and grants the lead character a significant role in driving the story. However, the film remains traditional in other areas, adhering to conventional gender hierarchies and social frameworks. While it lacks diversity in terms of disability and cultural critique, its subversion of racial casting clichés offers a meaningful perspective for its time.
Category Breakdown
The film centers on traditional romantic relationships and does not explore narratives that challenge straight relationships or present diverse gender identities.
The story follows typical adolescent gender dynamics and social patterns. It explores teenage crushes without actively challenging traditional gender expectations.
The film features an African American protagonist named Joel in a suburban setting. This choice provides a nuanced look at the Black teenage experience, disrupting historical casting clichés.
The narrative operates within a traditional middle-class suburban framework. It focuses on individual biological maturation without critiquing Western institutions or morality.
There is no prominent focus on neurodivergence or physical disabilities. Characters are depicted through the lens of typical adolescent development without disability-centric plot devices.
Present on Screen
Limited or Absent
Official Synopsis
An animated adaptation of Peter Mayle's bestseller, talking about and explaining the strange and often surprising things that can happen to a young person during puberty.

2014

1991

1985

2023
2015

2018

1995

2012
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!
Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.