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That Wasn't Me

Name: That Wasn't Me
Director: Esteban Crespo
Released: 2012
Duration: 20 min

Representation Score

4.5/10

Fair

2012

Not Rated

Director

Esteban Crespo

Runtime

20 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

That Wasn't Me is a focused exploration of queer identity, emphasizing the complexities of coming out rather than traditional coming-of-age stories. It effectively challenges social hierarchies by making the protagonist's internal struggle the main driver of the narrative. However, the film's impact is somewhat limited by a lack of racial and ethnic diversity. The setting remains largely homogeneous, which confines its social commentary to a specific peer group. Overall, the film succeeds in its intentionality regarding LGBTQ+ representation, offering a nuanced look at the friction between personal authenticity and societal pressures.

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Category Breakdown

Does That Wasn't Me have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film centers on queer identity, exploring the tension between personal authenticity and the fear of social rejection. It highlights the challenges faced within societal norms that assume everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does That Wasn't Me portray gender?

Good

Gender roles are explored through the experiences of adolescents, particularly focusing on masculinity and social performance. The story critiques the rigid expectations and pressures that enforce conformity among peers.

How racially and ethnically diverse is That Wasn't Me?

Minimal

The narrative primarily features a homogeneous cast set in a Spanish high school. It lacks significant diversity in terms of race or ethnicity, limiting the scope of its social commentary.

How does That Wasn't Me represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques the oppressive nature of adolescent social hierarchies and rules. It emphasizes personal truth over adherence to established social orders.

Does That Wasn't Me include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no explicit depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. While it touches on the psychological burden of concealing one's identity, no specific disabilities significantly influence the plot.

Present on Screen

Strong focus on queer identity as a central narrative driver.
Nuanced exploration of the complexities of coming out.
Effective critique of rigid masculine archetypes and social performance.

Limited or Absent

Lack of significant racial and ethnic diversity within the cast.
Limited diversity in the primary social and cultural setting.

Official Synopsis

Aquél no Era Yo [That Wasn't Me] is a 2012 Spanish short film directed by Esteban Crespo. It tells the story of Paul and Kaney. Two characters, an African child and a Spanish woman, who could have nothing in common, but will get to join their lives forever through a life-giving shot. Kaney is an African child soldier. He lives with many child soldiers and obeys the orders given by the man who has become like their father, the General of the Rebel Army. Paula is a Spanish aid worker who moved to Africa following her boyfriend, Juanjo, in order to bring help and to rescue the child soldiers who live there. In a border crossing point, Paula and Kaney meet each other and this will be the starting point of this dramatic story, full of fear, violence and redemption. The film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film.

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