The Reel Review
A socially awkward man’s life falls apart when he becomes obsessed with his neighbor, a charismatic local TV weatherman, after their brief friendship comes to an abrupt end. Tim Robinson, Paul Rudd and Kate Mara star in this dark comedy.
Friendship is the kind of film that will appeal most to viewers who thrive on cringey, incredibly awkward moments. Tim Robinson, channeling the same type of humor from his Netflix comedy sketch show I Think You Should Leave Now with Tim Robinson, is very convincing as the not-so-lovable narcissist, with Mara as his frustrated wife who curiously has started spending time with an ex-boyfriend and Rudd as the neighbor with cool hobbies and a big secret. The film, with its tones of Fatal Attraction, is a kookier and more unrealistic version of Rudd’s 2009 rom-com, I Love You, Man.
Writer/director Andrew DeYoung’s film debut deftly captures the awkwardness of many male friendships in today’s modern world, as well as the sad reasons we stay in bad relationships – be it loneliness, codependency or just habit. The film will no doubt be divisive, with some loving its cringey dark humor and others asking themselves what the point is.
REEL FACTS
• Writer/director Andrew DeYoung is best known for his work in television, having directed several episodes of the Hulu series PEN15 and Shrill, starring Aidy Bryant.
• Friendship was an Audience Award nominee at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival.
• Detroit native Tim Robinson, who was a writer and performer on Saturday Night Live from 2012 to 2016, is friends with Paul Rudd in real life.
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