A Love Song for Bobby Long is a 2004 drama film directed by Shainee Gabel. The film stars John Travolta, Scarlett Johansson, and Gabriel Macht.
The story follows Purslane Hominy Will, a headstrong young woman (played by Johansson) who returns to her hometown of New Orleans after the death of her estranged mother. Purslane inherits her mother's dilapidated house, which she soon discovers is occupied by two former friends of her mother's - Bobby Long (played by Travolta) and his protégé, Lawson Pines (played by Macht).
Bobby is a former college professor who has fallen into alcoholism and despair, while Lawson is a young writer who is struggling to find his voice. Despite her initial reluctance to stay in the house with them, Purslane slowly begins to form a bond with Bobby and Lawson, finding solace in their shared love of literature and music.
As Purslane gets to know the two men better, she uncovers secrets from her mother's past that shed new light on her own fractured relationship with her. With the help and guidance of Bobby and Lawson, she begins to come to terms with her mother's death and learn to embrace life once again.
A Love Song for Bobby Long is a poignant and emotionally charged drama that explores themes of loss, redemption, and the power of human connection. It is notable for its strong performances from the lead actors, particularly Travolta, who delivers a powerful and nuanced portrayal of a troubled man struggling to find his way back from the brink.