interviews

Interview with SteelHeart’s Miljenko Matijevic

Rocking With Jam Man talks with SteelHeart‘s Miljenko Matijevic about his new movie ‘Trust In Love’, a new darker musical direction he is taking with Niclas Engelin from In Flames, the irony of releasing “We All Die Young” then having a stroke shortly after, how he truly has a Steel Heart after surgery, touring and what is next for him

Iconic rock vocalist Miljenko Matijevic, best known as the frontman of renowned band SteelHeart, makes a powerful big screen debut in Mick Davis’ new heartwarming dramedy, TRUST IN LOVE. The film, which has already garnered thirty awards at festivals worldwide, will premiere in select theaters in early August before its VOD (video on demand) debut. Matijevic is also working on new music with an unexpected, exciting ally.

Directed by the acclaimed Mick Davis, known for Modigliani and Walden, the film also stars a remarkable ensemble cast, including Matijevic, Natasha Wilson (Once Upon a TimeCommander in ChiefHuff), Sydney Bullock (Stranger ThingsDynastyGoosebumps), Robby Krieger (The Doors), Eric Roberts (The Dark KnightThe ExpendablesEntourage), and Jimi Petulla (The Fall of America and the Western WorldReversalAll the Kings Men). Cities with screenings of the film being set up include Los Angeles, CA; Orlando & Ft Lauderdale, FL; Tempe & Sedona, AZ and Minneapolis,MN among others. The film will be digitally released on all major VOD platforms on August 13. 

Diving deep into the heart of resilience and love, Trust In Love—based on a true story—promises to move and inspire viewers. Mickey Ferrara (Jimi Petulla) teeters at life’s crossroads: his record-producing career for a once huge band, fronted by Emerson (played by Matijevic), is going down the tubes.  His estranged wife wants a divorce, and his son is struggling with his sexuality. Although plunged into adversity, Mickey is above all else a warrior, poised to make a valiant stand, get in the trenches, and “trust in love” to try to keep his family together and maybe—just maybe—make one more good record.

The film was named after SteelHeart’s epic track that has been translated into 5 languages and has become a symbol of peace around the world.  “The original title for the movie was going to be “Split,” says Jimi Petulla.  “When we were going over songs with Mili for the movie and myself and the director heard “Trust in Love”.  We couldn’t believe it!  It was BEYOND perfect.  Then seeing Mili’s music video for the song I felt like it was an anthem for Peace and Love.  Not only did we feel it was the perfect song it ended up being the perfect title for the movie Trust in Love.  It really brings the family together at the end of the movie.  Thank you Mili!” 

In addition to his new film credits, Matijevic is also poised to make waves yet again in the music industry with brand-new material slated for release in late 2024. Collaborating with Niclas Engelin of IN FLAMES, the new material is a break from his past fare.  It is a darker, heavier rock sound that promises to be a sonic treat for rock fans worldwide.

Matijevic will be hitting the road with SteelHeart on their 2024 tour. Following their August dates in Jakarta, Indonesia, SteelHeart will perform at:

  • 09/06/24 – Hinkley, MN: Rocktember Music Festival, Grand Casino Amphitheater
  • 09/13/24 – Murphys, CA: Ironstone Amphitheatre
  • 09/21/24 – Sault Ste. Marie, MI: Kewadin Casino – DreamMakers Theater
  • 10/05/24 – Umatilla, OR: Rock the Lock Music Festival
  • 11/23/24 – Jim Thorpe, PA: Penn’s Peak
  • 11/24/24 – Warrendale, PA: Jergel’s Rhythm Grille

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