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As we age, the challenge of forming new friendships often weighs heavily on us. Our daily routines confine us to familiar environments, making it increasingly difficult to meet new people and engage in fresh experiences. This theme resonates in Andrew DeYoung’s latest film, Friendship, which amplifies the concept of overzealous friendships through the lens of cringe comedy, featuring the uniquely hilarious Tim Robinson.
The film intertwines a series of comical scenarios reminiscent of the sketches from Robinson’s popular Netflix show, I Think You Should Leave. However, amidst the humor, Friendship also unveils significant insights, allowing its central character to delve unrestrainedly into chaotic situations.
An Awkward Dad Pursues Friendship with a Cool Guy
Craig Waterman, portrayed by Robinson, exemplifies the quintessential suburban dad of 2024. Employed at a company that creates addictive mobile applications, Craig spends his leisure time discussing the latest Marvel movie and shopping for clothes that fit just right from Ocean View Dining.
His wife, Tami (Kate Mara), manages a floral business and yearns for a larger vehicle, while their teenage son, Steven (Jack Dylan Grazer), is a well-behaved youngster. However, Craig appears to be seeking something more, a longing that is exacerbated when he unknowingly receives a package intended for a neighbor, leading him to meet Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd).
Before this encounter, Craig’s idea of excitement revolved around a local restaurant challenge involving a staggering 20,000 calories. In contrast, Austin is effortlessly cool; he is a meteorologist with a passion for ancient artifacts and hidden passageways. Craig admires Austin, who embodies everything he aspires to be, including his side gig in a rock band.
Paul Rudd and a Strong Supporting Cast Complement Robinson
Craig, however, struggles to manage his enthusiasm. His social interactions often miss the mark, and his frustrations can surface unexpectedly. After establishing this theme, DeYoung provides Robinson with ample opportunity to explore comical extremes, oscillating between awkwardness and hilarity. Rudd complements Robinson’s eccentricity, bringing a charismatic presence similar to his character from Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy. Mara and Grazer further enhance the film, effectively portraying the family dynamics that surround Craig’s increasingly erratic behavior.
Upon receiving an invitation to hang out with Austin’s friends, the tension builds as we brace for Craig’s unpredictable reactions. This gathering features a group sing-along of Ghost Town DJs’ “My Boo,” a recurring gag that adds to the film’s comedic landscape. However, when Austin faces the uncomfortable task of indicating a platonic rift, Craig’s obsession with maintaining the friendship intensifies, propelling the film into an unpredictable territory.
Friendship Gets Sketchy but Comes Together Beautifully
The latter half of the film showcases Robinson navigating through outrageous scenarios as Craig’s life spirals out of control. Yet, it sometimes seems like a compilation of absurd situations rather than a cohesive narrative. Friendship occasionally struggles between embracing cringe comedy and delving into the deeper emotional aspects of connection and solitude, often coming off as a series of fragmented sketches.
Although Craig’s abrasive personality may deter some, his authenticity and desire for connection are ultimately commendable. DeYoung skillfully addresses both the merits and drawbacks of Craig’s character, exploring whether someone like him can ever truly find belonging. The film reflects a universal truth: the need for companionship transcends superficial barriers, posing the question of whether some individuals are beyond reach. In a thoughtful conclusion, Friendship reconciles its chaotic narrative with an exploration of its core themes.
Friendship debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival and will be released by A24 on May 9, 2025, in select theaters in New York and Los Angeles, with a wider rollout across various cities beginning May 16, including Austin, Boston, and Chicago, before reaching audiences everywhere on May 23, 2025.
Source
movieweb.com