Trust in Love

A divorce has very dramatic complications for a family.

Mickey Ferrera (Petulla) is a music producer who lives in Malibu, California with his wife, Sofia (Wilson) and their teenage children Cody (Arditty) and Jennifer (Bullock). Sofia is unhappy with her husband, believing that he has become distant and has decided to divorce him. Mickey's world spirals out of control and he desperately tries to keep this stable, support his children and take care of things at work, which is also going downhill.

Divorce is the center of this comedy drama as it is the effects of it that kick-starts the series of dramatic events that turn the lives of the protagonists upside down. Mickey certainly experiences changes due to Sofia's decision, as he is forced to move out of the house, he hires a lawyer, is ordered to attend anger management sessions and she even files a restraining order against him. On top of all this, he is under pressure to finally deliver music that sells, after so many years of failing. He finds some solace in the company of his brother, Bobby (Hazelip), a womanising surf enthusiast with dreadlocks, who gives him advice on how to handle the situation. Although a great deal of focus is on Mickey, the screenplay also explores how his wife and children are coping and it is not good as the whole procedure is taking its toll on them.

The feature does a great job when it comes to character development. Mickey is a decent person who cares about his loved ones. However, he has made significant errors such as spending too much time working instead of focusing on being a supportive husband and father. By facing divorce, he is forced to reflect on his actions and make amends. His offspring go through their own struggles, particularly Cody (who also narrates a bit). Jennifer quits her passion for horse riding and Cody endures bullying at school due to a secret that he longs to reveal. Their father becomes the person who might help them overcome their obstacles. It is worth mentioning the appearance of Eric Roberts as an eccentric therapist.

Occasionally, there are sort of title cards that reference the significance of the events of a particular moment, such as the occurrence of a Glasgow kiss. The addition of this is awkward and humorous.

Chris Cibelli is quite creative with the editing, utilising split screen and wipe techniques. The film also gains from an entertaining soundtrack that includes songs by glam metal band Steelheart and various other artists.

Although there are funny moments, this feature is heavy on drama, with big revelations and it explores a family being torn apart by divorce and deals with other very serious issues that include bullying, adultery and homophobia. However, it also points out the significance of having a family, of support, of self-discovery and having the courage to deal with life's challenges. Ultimately, the main message appears to be that being united is mandatory for people to get through tough times.