Petullapictures

A sweet surprise, Trust in Love delivers for the whole family

Jimi Petulla portrays Mickey Ferrera, a man who appears to have it all together, at least on the surface. Mickey's life is not looking so rosy these days. He has aged out of his job as a music producer, and his clientele has dwindled to one lackluster rock band. Things go from bad to worse when a romantic dinner with his wife, Sofia (Natasha Wilson), takes a wrong turn in front of their entire family, including their children Cody (Logan Arditty) and Jennifer (Sydney Bullock). With so many obstacles in his way, Mickey must repair his family and save his career.

The movie is a celebration of family with the film's strongest scenes focusing on familial relationships. Petulla and Arditty are particularly effective as father and son, with many heartfelt scenes shared together. Arditty and Bullock are believable as unique teenager characters, with flaws, problems, and many questions about life. These characters are well-rounded, something a younger crowd of viewers will surely appreciate.

Trust in Love's progression moves the viewer through many ups and downs for Mickey, as he attempts to heal himself and his family. Even through some unsavory moments, Petulla's delivery is full of vulnerability. His script includes many perfectly timed comedic moments, balancing out much of the drama. You will laugh and cry, then laugh some more.

Creative edits utilize split screens and other techniques to help keep the pacing quick and captivating. The film's music plays a huge role, acting as a unifying factor for father and son, producer and artist, and of course the family as a whole.

Mick Davis's film is a saccharin, trope-heavy romantic film, but it's hard to deny its entertainment value and resonance.