Bobcat Moretti Review by Jen Bush
Co-Executive Producer-Pete Dorton
Director and Co-writer-Bob Margolies
Lead Actor and Co-writer-Tim Realbuto
Cast: Vivica A. Fox, Taryn Manning, Matt Peters, Sally Kirkland, Louis Mustillo, Sheria Irving, Jay Hieron (also stunt coordinator), Matt McCoy, Mindy Sterling, Coolio
Bobcat Moretti is a heart wrenching film about an obese man who was just diagnosed with M.S. He follows in his late father’s footsteps and takes up boxing to overcome intense personal tragedy and find inner peace.
The film begins with Bobby visiting a doctor portrayed with warmth and compassion by seasoned actor Matt McCoy. His life is already challenging, and he is ultimately diagnosed with M.S. Bobby answers phones at a catering company which is a job he hates. He is the sole caregiver for his invalid mother with dementia. He suffered a terrible tragedy and has flashbacks throughout the film. He eventually moves in with his brother and family consisting of a pregnant wife and two little boys. The family teeters between being kind to him and treating him like a loser. He finagles his way into a job at a local gym. He provides janitorial and handyman duties in exchange for training. He finds out that this is the gym where his father died during a boxing match. There is even a picture of his father in the office. He was legendary at that gym. There is a subplot involving a female gym member who is a potential love interest for Bobby. She is in a strange and violent relationship with the undefeated boxer at the gym.
The most remarkable thing about Bobcat Moretti is the fact that the actor portraying the lead went on a weight loss journey along with his character and shed over 150 pounds breaking Christian Bale’s weight loss record for a film. After the weight loss, there is not only a physical transformation but an emotional one as well. Bobby Moretti gains confidence and gets more respect from those around him.
Bobcat Moretti has a lot of bleakness, sadness and tragedy. Bobby is pathetic and down on his luck in every way. He garners a great deal of sympathy because he’s also a nice guy with a good heart who was dealt a really bad hand in life. His lack of motivation and direction is fully justified by the events of his past. There is certainly inspiration to be had based on the trajectory of the character and all the hard work he put into bettering himself. A man with everything against him prevails. The ending is subtle yet satisfying because the character is finding his way on the new path he was set upon.
The cast had some real heavy hitters in the entertainment industry. They were all amazing and brought depth to these complex characters.
Tim Realbuto co-wrote the film and plays the title character. He gave a knock down drag out deep seeded emotional performance. You will root for him throughout the whole film. Kudos to him for using his art to improve his health and his life. After you see this film, please look for Tim Realbuto on YouTube. You will be uplifted and in awe of his wonderous singing voice. He is a gifted vocalist.
Vivica A. Fox played the no nonsense, assertive, tough loving Jo who took pity on Bobby and let him into her orbit. Of course she nailed it in every way. She’s Vivica A. Fox!
You’ll easily recognize award winning actress Sally Kirkland as Bobby’s mother Helene. Her portrayal was powerful and poignant. Your heart will be tugged at. Taryn Manning of Orange is the new Black fame was excellent as Bobby’s sister-in-law. She was sweet and sympathetic. Matt Peters as Bobby’s brother displayed a wide emotional palette highlighting the complex relationship he has with his brother. Sheria Irving also showed a wide range of emotion as Bobby’s friend and gym patron Lacey. She was tough, tender, sassy and strong. Jay Hieron made an excellent villain as the undefeated Friday night fighting champ and Lacey’s dominating love/hate interest. He was also the stunt coordinator. Matt McCoy, who has numerous credits to his name, never disappoints. He was a spot of sunshine exuding warmth as Bobby’s doctor. Louis Mustillo gave a finely crafted performance as gym employee Carmine. Mindy Sterling of Austin Powers fame injected some much-needed comic moments as Bobby’s boss Joan.
Bobcat Moretti will take you on an emotional journey as you witness the challenging journey of a downtrodden character. You’ll be inspired by the strength and determination of Bobby Moretti. He will not be down for the count!
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