Every so often, a film comes along that hits me right in the heart — and Bob Trevino Likes It is one of those films. Lily (Barbie Ferreira), a twentysomething who feels utterly alone in the world—abandoned by her mother and let down by a father who never truly steps up—finds herself reaching out online in a search for connection and finds Bob Trevino (John Leguizamo), a construction worker who throws all his time into his job to cope with the trials he has been through – forming an unlikely friendship.
Mere minutes into the film, you realise how relatable Lily is as a young girl who is trying to look after herself, with her immediately replying ‘no problem!’ to a man’s attempt at apologising for cheating on her — someone who tries to protect her peace by avoiding conflict, but in doing so, ends up allowing people to treat her in ways she doesn’t deserve. As a people-pleaser myself, it felt true, especially in the scene where her friend reminds her that it’s healthy to feel anger, whilst Lily struggles to let it out in a rage room – a powerful moment that captures the inner conflict of someone who’s spent their life swallowing emotions just to keep the peace.
However, the true heart of this film is the friendship formed between Bob and Lily, two people who ended up finding each other at the perfect time and would never have crossed paths if it weren’t for the internet. Their friendship becomes a crucial part of the healing process for both of them, as they build lifelong memories together, gentle reminders of how meaningful connection and small acts of kindness can truly be. It’s in these moments that the film beautifully underscores the quiet power of being seen, heard, and cared for.
Adding to this, the Writer and Director Tracie Laymon stated, “Everyone needs a Bob.” Having someone in our lives who shows us empathy and vulnerability should be normal. But when you don’t grow up with that, like I didn’t, and like Lily didn’t, it can seem like a pipe dream. It’s easy to see Lily was asking her father for so little. When she finally gets it from a new friend, it feels huge, even though in a way, it’s baseline. There’s beauty and poignant humour in that! The end of this film is her beginning… just like it was mine.” Which I think is perfectly portrayed through this coming-of-age-esque story.
Bob Trevino Likes It is now available on digital download here! (but make sure you have some tissues with you!)
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