Every year at SXSW, there’s always that one film that gets unanimous praise from everyone in the audience. A24’s Friendship, the new comedy from director Andrew D. Young, is one of those rare gems. It’s not just funny, it’s the kind of comedy that’ll have you playfully punching your best friend in the arm during some of the cringiest moments, and it’s the kind of film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
The film, starring Tim Robinson, Kate Mara, and Paul Rudd, explores the weirdness of male friendship, obsession, and the lengths someone will go to form a lasting connection. Tim Robinson plays a painfully awkward suburbanite marketing executive who somehow has an incredible wife (Kate Mara) who tolerates his strange antics. When a suave TV weatherman (Paul Rudd) moves in to the neighborhood, Robinson’s character is immediately infatuated with the idea of becoming his best friend. His obsession grows so intense thrusts both of their lives in increasingly absurd ways. It’s a simple premise, but it’s executed with such a high level of cringe comedy that it becomes impossible to look away.
The film begins innocently enough, with Robinson attempting to impress Rudd in an I Love You, Man-style bromance. But as Robinson’s desperation to become his best friend spirals out of control, things quickly take a dark and uncomfortable turn—yet somehow, it’s hilarious. His character becomes increasingly fixated on this new friendship, treating it like the most important thing in his life. He goes to absurd lengths to force a bond with Rudd’s character, creating moments that are as cringe-worthy as they are funny.
If you’re someone who loves cringe comedy, Friendship hits all of the right notes. There were moments when I found myself covering my face, muttering “no, no, no” under my breath as Robinson’s character dug himself deeper into uncomfortable situations. It’s painful, it’s awkward, it’s absurd, but it’s perfect because pain is comedy afterall.
Robinson portrays his character in such a painfully awkward and socially oblivious way that you can’t help but laugh, and cringe all in one breath. He becomes so obsessed with Rudd’s character in a way that might seem relatable to some, but ridiculous to just about everyone else. We’ve all been in a situation where we tried to impress someone new in our lives, but Robinson takes it to such an over-the-top extreme that you can’t help but laugh at how far he’s willing to go.
Paul Rudd as the charismatic new neighbor, surprisingly isn’t the main focus of the movie. His ability to exude a cool, calm demeanor while dealing with Robinson’s madness is going to be new to most viewers. He doesn’t have the same screen time as Robinson, but when he’s there, he brings certain a level of charm and subtle humor that makes him stand out, and it’s honestly a bit refreshing to see him in this manner because it makes him just as likable as every other character he’s played in other films.
Kate Mara also shines as Robinson’s wife, bringing a surprising amount of depth to the role of the supportive spouse. While comedy isn’t usually bag, she brings a bit of drama and dry humor to the character that feels fresh and unexpected. Her interactions with Robinson shift from cringey to hilarious, yet also heartwarming, giving her character a complexity that elevates what could have been a forgettable role.
In the Q&A at SXSW, director Andrew DeYoung shared that the inspiration for Friendship came from a real experience he had after leaving a job, when tried to reconnect with a coworker he thought was a friend. He eventually found out that the relationship had been more about work than genuine friendship. That experience helped him realize how hard it can be to make real connections and the awkwardness of adult friendships, especially among men.
FINAL VERDICT: 5/5 STARS
Friendship is absurd, cringe-worthy, and absolutely hilarious from the very beginning. Tim Robinson gives one of his best performances, blending awkwardness and humor in a way that’s both uncomfortable and incredibly funny. Paul Rudd cool demenor is the perfect foil to Robinson’s manic energy, balancing out the insanity, creating a truly memorable duo.
Friendship is niche and might be a bit dark for those that like slap-stick, Will Ferrell style comedies. I can almost guarantee that it will develop a cult following, and it’s going to be a long-time favorite for anyone who loves cringe comedy and dark humor. Don’t miss it when it hits theaters. It’s a laugh-out-loud, painful, absurdly funny ride that’s worth every second.