• Release year: 2024
• Director: Tracie Laymon.
• Producers: Felipe Dieppa, Tracie Laymon, Sean Mullin, and Edgar Lacey Rosa.
• Screenplay by: Tracie Laymon.
• Cinematography by: John Rosario.
• Music by: Jacques Brautbar.

Shotgun Commentary: gorgeous film with flawless acting.

Review

Bob Trevino Likes It follows Lily Trevino, a deeply traumatised girl who is blind to how her father has completely ruined her mental health. She meets a man with the same name as him by chance, and they become friends. A relationship that will help her put things into perspective and begin her healing journey.

Crucial topic, perfect lead

This film is a great exposé on toxic patterns and how childhood trauma affects people, not just well into adulthood, but forever if it remains unchecked. From the very beginning, you are made aware of Lily’s deeply traumatic situation. A tragedy so huge it is borderline comedic in its magnitude, to the point of making Lily’s therapist cry.

The tricky part is that Lily is completely unaware of how deep her scars are. Choosing instead to deflect or excuse other’s behaviour as a protection mechanism. Sadly, her voluntary delusion only makes her character even more heartbreaking.

Barbie Ferreira delivers a performance so gorgeous you won’t be able to take your eyes off of her for a second. After all the critiques she was forced to endure as a result of her role in Euphoria (2019 – present), this performance definitely shuts up anyone close-minded and prejudiced enough to still doubt her talent.

A conversation worth having

Of course, Lily’s abuser also has a big role in the film. Her good-for-nothing father who only contacts her when he needs a wingman, an ear to listen, or money, but pretends to not know her if things don’t go exactly as he wants. This poor excuse of a man is perfectly portrayed by French Stewart. An actor capable of bringing to life one of the most annoying manchilds in the history of cinema.

If anything, this movie will hopefully open the eyes of many victims of psychological abuse. Whether it comes from your partner, your parents, or your friends, it is important to remember that nobody is worth more than yourself, and vice versa. Do not trust that people around you are inherently good just because they share your blood or your interests. If someone, ANYONE, tries to make you feel unworthy, it is time to ponder if that relationship is worth keeping.

Reality wins again

Luckily, Lily comes across Bob Trevino (John Leguizamo), a man with a really toxic work environment but a luckily peaceful personal life. Unlike many friendships between a man and a woman in cinema, this is one of the few examples where reality has won over the male gaze.

The result is a friendship between two people of the opposite sex. Yes, that IS possible without the need for one of them to be gay. This rare and wholesome relationship is made even more special and realistic with small details that prevent unnecessary drama throughout the narrative. Thus, leaving more time and securing your attention for the intended message.

There is only one big gap in the story, and it feels specially frustrating since it pulls you out of the film almost at the end of it. Don’t worry, though, it will be explained without any spoilers. After the climax of the film, Lily is stressed about an issue she is having and, despite Bob being completely capable of putting her at ease, he doesn’t. For weeks. A decision that feels really out of character for everybody involved, making the ending so surreal you barely have time to appreciate it.

All in all, Bob Trevino Likes It is a wonderful exploration of childhood trauma and how abusive relationships that don’t involve physical harm are just as harmful as those that do. Ferreira’s Lily is one of the most beautiful performances of this past 2024, definitely a must-watch for anyone who enjoys great acting.

Advice to take from this movie:

• You don’t owe money to your parents for your upbringing. Having you is THEIR decision, don’t let them tell you otherwise.
• If you don’t want to have a kid, don’t have it or put them up for adoption. Don’t force them into a life where they are hated.
• Your kids are NOT your servants. Want staff at your house? PAY THEM.

What’s your take? Have you watched Bob Trevino Likes It? Don’t hesitate to let me know your thoughts in the comments section below, or leave a message in my contact page! For more reviews and cinema-related articles, check out the rest of my blog! 😀