Sometimes, life’s most extraordinary relationships come from the most unexpected places. The Friend, the touching adaptation of Sigrid Nunez’s 2018 acclaimed novel, delivers an emotionally resonant story that balances beauty, heartbreak, and growth, with a performance-driven narrative and a deeply thoughtful exploration of loss, love, and renewal.
At the heart of The Friend's magic is the unlikely bond between Iris (Naomi Watts), a grief-stricken writer and teacher living a quiet, structured life in the chaos of New York City, and Apollo, a 150-pound harlequin Great Dane with an imposing yet strangely fragile presence. After the passing of her mentor and best friend Walter (a small role played effortlessly by Bill Murray), Iris inherits Apollo—a dog wrestling with his own grief. What begins as an unwanted complication for Iris evolves into something deeply meaningful as the two find solace and strength within one another.
Co-writer/directors Scott McGehee, and David Siegel paint a moving picture of healing and connection against the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Their story captures the unspoken depth of the human-animal bond while subtly peeling back the layers of human frailty and resilience. Apollo isn’t just a dog; he’s a character steeped in sadness and complexity, a mirror to Iris’s own bottled-up emotions. As the film progresses, Apollo’s subtle gestures and quiet companionship unlock a profound transformation not only for Iris but for the audience, as well.
Digging deep into her facility for dramatic roles, Watts delivers a truly exceptional performance. She captures Iris’s heartbreak, confusion, and eventual compassion with a vulnerability that feels both raw and real. Watts transitions seamlessly from stoicism to empathy as she unwittingly discovers that Apollo is not just an added responsibility but a partner in her path to self-discovery.
The film’s brilliance also shines in its emotional subtleties. Bill Murray, though playing a limited role, leaves a lasting impression as Walter, embodying a mentor’s warmth with his signature understated charm. While Walter's presence is fleeting, Murray’s performance as Iris’s mentor is impactful, lending an emotional weight to her loss. The layers to Walter and Iris’s relationship are somewhat cryptic, with their bond quietly woven into the story through scattered clues and whispered memories.
Let’s not fail to recognize the performance of "Bing," the canine actor behind Apollo, who was discovered in Iowa after an extensive six-month-long search. His exceptional performance forms the emotional core of the movie, showcasing his undeniable talent and making him a true standout.
Though a bit long at two hours, what bumps The Friend up a level or two is its exploration of the unknowable. Much like the mystery of Walter’s enduring friendship, Apollo’s grief and loyalty evoke emotions that are both tender and deeply thought-provoking. Do dogs grieve? By the end of The Friend, you’ll be reaching for a handkerchief to answer that question with a resounding “yes.”
The Friend is not your typical “dog movie.” There’s no slapstick humor or over-the-top antics. Instead, it offers a poignant and artful portrayal of connection, reminding us that healing often comes in the most unexpected forms. Beautifully acted, visually striking, and emotionally stirring, The Friend is a heartfelt story that will linger with you long after the credits roll.
Don’t sleep on your chance to experience this soulful and life-affirming story. Bring tissues. You’ll thank us later.
MPAA Rating: R.
Runtime: 119 mins
Director: Scott McGehee; David Siegel
Writer: Scott McGehee; David Siegel
Cast: Bill Murray; Naomi Watts; Cloé Xhauflaire
Genre: Comedy | Drama
Tagline: Based on the New York Times Bestseller
Memorable Movie Quote: "What's gonna happen to the dog?"
Distributor: Bleeker Street
Official Site: https://bleeckerstreetmedia.com/the-friend
Release Date: April 4, 2025
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: When a solitary writer adopts and bonds with a Great Dane that belonged to a late friend, she begins to come to terms with her past and her own creative inner life.
