#REVIEW: “THE FRIEND”

Review by Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong

Naomi Watts’ latest is an intimate film about grief and healing for man and man’s best friend.

Iris (Watts) is a New York City writer struggling with Writer’s Block. Her solitary life gets thrown into disarray when her close friend and mentor Walter (Bill Murray) commits suicide. Following his passing, he bequeaths her his Great Dane named Apollo (Bing). The dog immediately creates practical problems for Iris, from furniture destruction to eviction notices, as well as more existential ones.

The Friend offers a look at grief and healing in a unique way. Co-Directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel pay homage to the bond between man and their pet. We tend to consider the human aspect of grief but forget that our furry friends also grieve for us.

Apollo meant everything to Walter, and Walter meant everything to Apollo. Iris is moved to know that Apollo has been left to her, but she is in over her head. She isn’t allowed dogs in her building and attempts to give Apollo to Walter’s first wife. But slowly, the dynamic between the two changes. Iris notices that Apollo is helping her in her quiet grief. And after a trip to the vet, she learns how much she’s helping him.

The Friend begins on the slower side. We get to know Iris and her relationship with Walter. Then we watch the effects of complicated grief — one where the death is unexpected. Complicated grief isn’t a common one examined. The Filmmakers take tender care in showing Iris during this time. Watts is phenomenal at exposing the complex feelings her character is going through. The shock, anger, regret, and ultimate sadness of the passing.

The rest of the Film examines the healing process. Iris is forever changed by having Apollo in her life. She is given an immediate purpose. This is a drastic change from her meandering through her daily life waiting to finish her novel. It’s beautiful to see this special bond between humans and animals and the impact it can have on the soul.

Mongrel Media release THE FRIEND in theatres Friday, April 4, 2025.