TRUST ME – The Review

Clark Gregg may not be a household name now, but that will soon change. Undoubtedly best recognized as the loveable Agent Phil Coulson, Gregg has captured the hearts of comic book fans by perfectly personifying the character on the big screen in movies including THE AVENGERS, THOR and IRON MAN, as well as on the small screen in the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. television series. In retrospect, it could be said that making your name in such big blockbuster movies would pigeonhole an actor, but TRUST ME is proof that such tried and true assumptions are always subject to exceptions.

The truth is, when you are as multi-talented as Clark Gregg, you become nearly impervious to the typical industry stereotypes. TRUST ME is a film as fascinating behind the scenes as it is a fascinating story, but you can do your own Google search to read about the making of the film. A truly indie film that maintains studio production value, TRUST ME is a dark comedy with a touching dramatic flair. Clark Gregg stars as Howard Holloway, a former child star turned Hollywood agent for child actors. Fulfilling one minor legendary stereotype, Howard struggles to regain that sense of importance and fame vicariously through his young clients. The trouble is, he hasn’t enjoyed any notoriety since he was 15 years old and at the top of his acting game.

Poor Howard is truly a good guy, sometimes slightly misguided, but ultimately holds true to having the proverbial heart of gold. TRUST ME is a film whose central character is repeatedly pummeled by misfortune and bad luck. As an audience, we feel every single scrape and blow as if it were our own. Howard is one of those underdog characters we cannot help but empathize with and root on, no matter what the odds. From the very beginning of the film, Howard gets stepped on, most frequently and cruelly by his arch nemesis Aldo Shocklee, played by Sam Rockwell with a marvelously subdued flamboyance. Aldo, fulfilling the film’s other primary stereotype, is a successful big shot agent with deep pockets and absolutely no ethical code of conduct. Howard finds himself constantly in battle with Aldo, having to defend each of his rarely acquired clients from Aldo poaching them with more money, extravagant gifts and outlandish promises.

Lydia, played by Saxon Sharbino, is a promising 14-year old actress being groomed by Howard for a new romantic fantasy franchise based on a popular series of books. A major studio has tapped Ang Lee to direct and has eyes for Lydia, but Howard stumbles upon some secret family issues that may not only threaten Lydia’s chances, but also change Howard’s own perspective on his purpose in life. Sharbino is a rising young star with a short but surprisingly diverse and impressive resume. She has that quintessential girl next door appeal, but has the flexibility to shift into complex dramatics on a dime, exerting what appears to be minimal effort in making it look and feel natural. This plays a pivotal significance in the film’s third and final act as the truth about her character is revealed.

The relationship that develops between Howard and Lydia is honest and rich with depth of character, even if it does ultimately prove destructive. Gregg is absolutely compelling, given an opportunity to explore a more textured role than superhero movies can allow. Gregg nurtures this relationship between Howard and Lydia, resulting in a sweet and dangerously innocent chemistry between the two actors. TRUST ME is a film driven by honest performances, enhanced by Clark Gregg’s personal touch both in front of and behind the camera. Gregg not only stars in the film, but also wrote and directed the film, making it a tremendously important notch on his journey of becoming a respected and influential storyteller.

Consider this… how many creatively successful films can you name that have the same name credited as writer, director and star? Charlie Chaplin’s CITY LIGHTS. Orsen Welles’ CITIZEN KANE. Woody Allen’s ANNIE HALL. Sylvester Stallone’s ROCKY. Clint Eastwood’s UNFORGIVEN. This is a small list, and by no means complete, but when you consider the members of this rather exclusive club, it’s a pretty amazing accomplishment to be included. If this isn’t enough to convince an audience to seek out this relatively small film, perhaps you may be convinced by TRUST ME’s supporting cast that includes Amanda Peet as Howard’s love interest, Felicity Huffman as the studio’s executive producer, Allison Janney, Molly Shannon and William H. Macy. TRUST ME, this film aims to please and hits the bull’s eye.

TRUST ME is available May 6th, 2014 through Video On Demand and iTunes, with a limited theatrical release scheduled for June 6th, 2014.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars