Get ready, because a fresh and “weird” storm of laughter awaits in theaters: the dark comedy Friendship (2024), directed and written by Andrew DeYoung! This film tells the story of a socially awkward marketing manager whose obsession with befriending his new neighbor spirals into absurd and poignant chaos. Already generating buzz, the movie has earned critical acclaim, with Tim Robinson’s “alarmingly brilliant” performance and Paul Rudd’s irresistible charm stealing the spotlight.
At the heart of the film is Craig Waterman (masterfully played by Tim Robinson), a misfit living an ordinary suburban life. Craig’s world turns upside down when he meets his charismatic and instantly likable new neighbor, Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd). Convinced that “this guy will be my best friend!” Craig’s obsessive pursuit of friendship sets off a wild, uncontrollable spiral, delivering moments that will have you roaring with laughter and others where you’ll cringe, thinking, “Oh, that’s not good.”
A Character Study Beyond the Laughs
While Friendship promises plenty of laughs on the surface, director Andrew DeYoung dives into deeper waters in his feature-length debut. He masterfully weaves heavy themes like male loneliness, emotional repression, and identity-seeking through imitation, all cleverly disguised behind sharp humor. The cinematography, crafted by Andy Rydzewski, is striking, offering visual richness that feels more like a character study than a typical comedy.
Tim Robinson, known to sketch comedy fans for his exaggerated and absurd characters, brings his signature “cringe-worthy” and manic weirdness to Craig. Paul Rudd, as always, is effortlessly charismatic, serving as the perfect foil to Craig’s obsessive world. Kate Mara as Craig’s wife, Tami, and Jack Dylan Grazer as their son, Steven, add authenticity to this absurd family dynamic.
Critical Acclaim and Festival Success!
Friendship premiered on September 8, 2024, in the Midnight Madness section of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), earning rave reviews. With a strong 72/100 score on Metacritic and an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics have hailed it as “substantial and jarringly funny” and a “timely, unsettling exploration of modern male loneliness.” Tim Robinson’s performance has been described as “a comedic language of its own.” The film also secured second place for the People’s Choice Award at TIFF, proving its strong connection with audiences.
The theatrical journey began with a limited U.S. release on May 9, 2025, followed by a wider rollout on May 23, 2025. Even better news: Friendship became available on Video On Demand platforms starting June 17, 2025!
If you’ve ever wondered what Single White Female would look like if remade by Larry David, or if you’re a fan of Tim Robinson’s unique humor, Friendship is a must-add to your watchlist! This film isn’t just funny—it offers a thought-provoking look at modern humanity’s quest for connection and the peculiarities that come with it.
Don’t miss out—this one will make you laugh and leave you with a few delightfully uncomfortable “cringe” moments!
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