SIFF 2024 Capsule Review

Bob Trevino Likes It is best experienced with no prior knowledge of its story. I highly recommend watching it before reading this or any other reviews, as it's nearly impossible to discuss the film meaningfully without revealing some of its most impactful moments. This deeply emotional and resonant film explores the complexities of family relationships, the longing for connection, and the power of kindness. Directed by Tracie Laymon, this debut feature tells the story of Lily (Barbie Ferreira), a young woman estranged from her father, Bob Trevino (French Stewart). When attempts to mend their relationship fail, she accidentally befriends another man named Bob Trevino (John Leguizamo) on Facebook, leading to an unexpected and transformative bond.

The film opens with Lily bawling uncontrollably over a text her boyfriend had sent her. It's a brilliant and humorous way to set up Lily's people-pleasing persona, as her text responses are positive and affirming while masking her internal feelings. This scene also immediately establishes how she could seemingly be so forgiving of a father who, in all honesty, seems completely irredeemable as a person. French Stewart is impressive as the hopelessly narcissistic Bob Trevino. His despicable treatment of Lily in the film garnered quite a bit of audible disdain from the audience at the Seattle International Film Festival, a testament to Stewart's performance. In contrast, John Leguizamo shines as the second Bob Trevino, whose warmth and understanding give Lily the fatherly support she desperately seeks.

The film had a profound impact on the theater audience. Almost everyone was either in tears or trying to hold back their emotions as the story unfolded. Approximately 200 people sat together, sniffling and blubbering in unison, creating a shared sense of vulnerability and connection. This collective emotional response is a testament to the film's powerful storytelling and ability to resonate deeply with viewers.

Following the emotional rollercoaster of the film, director Tracie Laymon took the stage for a Q&A session. As she shared insights into the making of the film and the personal experiences that inspired it, the audience couldn't help but feel a deeper connection to the story. Laymon's deeply personal touch is not just evident throughout the film; it's what makes it a debut feature that marks her as a director to watch, a director who understands the power of storytelling and its ability to touch hearts.

Bob Trevino Likes It is not just a film about a specific family's journey but a universal exploration of human experiences. It's a meditation on the importance of kindness, the power of forgiveness, and how connections can heal generational trauma. The story underscores that everyone, regardless of their background, wants to be liked and that sometimes, simple acts of kindness can break the patterns of inherited pain and brokenness. This universal resonance is what makes the film's message so impactful and its storytelling so compelling.

Barbie Ferreira's portrayal of Lily is raw and authentic, capturing the emotional struggle of a young woman caught between hope and despair. Her chemistry with John Leguizamo adds depth to their evolving relationship, counterbalancing the strained dynamic with her father. The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, adding layers to the story's exploration of human connections and the yearning for acceptance.

Seeing Bob Trevino Likes It was a cinematic experience I won't soon forget. Tracie Laymon's debut feature is a masterful exploration of family, forgiveness, and the healing power of human connection. The film's ability to evoke such a profound emotional response from its audience speaks volumes about its quality and the universality of its themes. Finding out the film was based on the director's experiences only after the movie ended was incredibly moving. I hope that the "based on a true story" aspect isn't used in the marketing lead-up of the film, allowing audiences to experience the story's raw power without preconceived notions. This is a film to keep an eye out for and one that will likely continue to touch hearts wherever it is shown.

— 4.5 / 5 ⭐