‘The Friend’ Review: Naomi Watts, Bill Murray and a Great Dane Charm in a Lively Grief Drama

As a gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in the digital worlds of storytelling and character development, I must say that “The Friend” is a cinematic masterpiece that resonates deeply with my soul. The nuanced portrayal of grief, friendship, and loss, all through the eyes of a woman (Naomi Watts) and her giant canine companion (Apollo), is nothing short of extraordinary.

Despite the fact that Naomi Watts manages a large Great Dane, the film “The Friend” deviates significantly from typical dog-centric movies. It lacks comedic scenes of the dog causing mischief, and avoids excessive sentimentality despite its theme revolving around loss. Instead, it presents a unique, unsentimental yet poignant narrative about Iris (Watts), a writer and educator, coping with her life post-loss of her dearest friend, Walter (Bill Murray), a well-known author known for his womanizing ways. His suicide was unexpected. However, another twist emerges when she learns that he has bequeathed her Apollo, a Great Dane that nearly reaches her waist.

The movie is inspired by Sigrid Nunez’s acclaimed novel, which, despite its popularity and critical praise, appeared challenging to adapt for the screen. It is narrated in the first person, with Iris frequently conversing directly with Walter, interspersing comments about writing, literature, and their past relationship. However, directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel have skillfully navigated all the potential obstacles of adaptation while staying true to the original work. From their debut film, the daring “Suture” (1993), to their latest release, the poignant “Montana Story” (2021) starring Owen Teague and Haley Lu Richardson as estranged siblings reunited on a family farm, they have consistently produced movies that focus more on character development than plot twists. “The Friend” follows suit, effortlessly handling heavy themes such as life, death, friendship, and the question of whether a large dog is suitable for a small New York City apartment.

In the movie “The Friend,” McGehee and Siegel predominantly feature Iris’ voiceover, sharing her recollections and conversations with Walter, while he is portrayed infrequently in flashbacks. Watts delivers an exceptional performance, striking the perfect balance of melancholy yet not overly somber, as he probes the reasons behind Walter’s suicide and his decision to leave Iris the dog. The storyline, although slim, focuses on Iris’ journey, initially hesitant to accept Apollo due to her apartment’s pet policy. Barbara, Walter’s widow (played by Noma Dumezweni), often referred to as Wife Number Three by Iris and friends, explains that she took Apollo because she lives alone and loves animals. However, most characters are skeptical about this explanation being entirely truthful.

When Iris temporarily cares for Apollo as she seeks him a permanent home, he proves hard to resist due to his regal appearance and unique eye color. His name suits him well as he sits tall and noble. Upon seeing Apollo, a neighbor (Ann Dowd, one of the many talented actors enhancing “The Friend” in minor roles) visiting Iris, comments, “You have a pony on your bed. A rather sad-looking one.” Indeed, Apollo looks melancholic. At first, it seems that Apollo may serve as Iris’ replacement for Walter, but he becomes more than that – they share mutual sorrow, their sadness reflecting each other. There is a touch of humor in the absurdity of the situation. Apollo can be naughty at times and sometimes just large. He persistently claims the bed, leaving Iris to sleep on an air mattress on the floor. The film’s emotion is delicate but evident, as it manifests clearly though quietly when Apollo becomes attached to a T-shirt that still bears Walter’s scent.

Murray’s performance plays a significant role in the success of “The Friend“. His casual, slightly disheveled demeanor makes us instantly like Walter and empathize with Iris’ sorrow – something that might not have been as effective if we merely heard about him. In fact, the film isn’t primarily about Walter; instead, it’s more about the impact he has on those around him.

As a fan, I can’t help but appreciate how much of the backstory unfolds through the engaging dialogues. Carla Gugino, playing Iris’ old friend and Walter’s former student (and first wife), effortlessly delivers the historical context. Constance Wu brings the most laughter to the show with her portrayal of Wife Number Two – a fashionable, bothersome character who is overzealous about writing a memoir about her ex-husband. Felix Solis, who chilled me to the bone as a crime lord in Netflix’s Ozark, surprisingly warms my heart here as the building super who repeatedly cautions Iris that management might evict her due to the dog. Tom McCarthy’s role as a therapist provides an emotional outlet for Iris, allowing her to fully express her sorrow and potentially find a resolution to the dog-related issues.

Teague is depicted as one of Iris’ writing apprentices, and although short college-like scenes are included, they don’t significantly contribute to the storyline. Instead, the atmosphere is effectively conveyed through the visuals and settings. The movie “The Friend” was filmed in New York, capturing scenes in parks and bustling streets, all shot by Giles Nuttgens (who has worked on numerous films directed by McGehee and Siegel) with a vibrant, clear style that imparts an everyday life experience with an added touch of enchantment. Stacey Battat’s costume design lends authenticity to Iris’ appearance; she is portrayed as a realistic middle-aged writer, not overly concerned with fashion, yet appropriately well-dressed and unassuming.

One point of discussion in this reinterpretation’s conclusion is whether Iris will retain custody of Apollo. By the end, it becomes evident, perhaps more so than in the original work, that Walter provided Iris with exactly what she required to move forward without him.

2024-08-31 07:54

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