Love & Trouble Review: Raw PTSD Documentary Tests Marriage Against All Odds

Bloody hell, grab your tissues. This isn’t your typical “soldier comes home” story – it’s a proper gut-punch that’ll have you believing in love again. As someone who’s covered countless military documentaries, I thought I’d seen it all. Then ‘Love & Trouble’ landed on my desk, and cor blimey, was I wrong.

When Beautiful Ears Aren’t Enough: A Love Story Like No Other

Kerry Watson reckons her husband Kenny has “the most beautiful ears.” It’s the kind of daft, intimate detail that makes you smile – until you learn why these small observations matter so much. Kenny, a former sniper in Afghanistan, came home to Scotland a changed man, battling PTSD so severe that even his baby’s crying triggered flashbacks.

Remember that Netflix show about war veterans that had everyone talking last year? Forget it. This is the real deal, following the Watsons over ten years without a hint of Hollywood gloss. When Kenny starts seeing Taliban snipers in everyday dog walkers, you’ll feel your heart in your throat.

The Brutal Truth About PTSD and Parenthood

Here’s the kicker – how do you parent when your child’s crying sends you spiraling? Kenny’s sleeping 18-24 hours a day, proper zonked from the medication and mental exhaustion. Meanwhile, Kerry’s juggling a newborn, a husband in crisis, and her own mysterious trauma that she’s yet to unpack.

Having interviewed several military families for my column last month, I can tell you this isn’t uncommon. But rarely do we see it portrayed with such unflinching honesty. The film doesn’t sugar-coat a thing – it’s as raw as a Saturday night in Glasgow.

Secrets, Lies, and Deep-Sea Firefighters

There’s a brilliant moment when Kenny reveals he told Kerry he was a “deep-sea firefighter” when they first met. Classic military humor, that. But it speaks to something deeper – the fear of showing our true selves, innit?

The documentary peels back these layers like an onion, and trust me, you’ll be crying just as much. Kerry’s got her own demons lurking, and watching them navigate this emotional minefield is properly gripping stuff.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Love & Trouble

Where can I watch Love & Trouble?

The documentary premieres on BBC Two on July 15th, 2025, with streaming available on BBC iPlayer immediately after. It’s also getting a limited cinema release in selected Picture Houses across the UK.

Is it suitable for veterans with PTSD?

While powerful, the film contains potentially triggering content. The filmmakers have partnered with Combat Stress to provide viewer support resources, and each screening includes contact information for mental health services.

How has the documentary impacted PTSD awareness?

Since its festival premiere, Love & Trouble has sparked crucial conversations about military mental health support. The Ministry of Defence has cited it in their 2025 review of veteran care services.

The Bottom Line: Love Conquers All (But It’s Complicated)

Look, I’m not saying Love & Trouble is an easy watch – it’s not. But blimey, is it important. In a world of disposable content and fleeting relationships, this raw slice of reality reminds us what real love looks like: messy, complicated, and sometimes beautiful, even when you’re just talking about someone’s ears.

Share your thoughts on this remarkable documentary below, and if you know someone who needs to see it, spread the word. Sometimes the hardest stories are the ones we need most.