A24 has made waves with the announcement of its upcoming comedy film, Friendship, starring Tim Robinson of I Think You Should Leave fame and beloved actor Paul Rudd. The film, which first premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) last September, has garnered attention for its unique take on the absurdities of male bonding. Slated for theatrical release on May 9, 2025, after making its U.S. premiere at SXSW on March 9, Friendship is set to deliver laughs as it explores the challenges of making adult friendships.
Directed and written by Andrew DeYoung, this film marks his directorial debut. DeYoung has previously made waves with his work on hit shows such as Pen15, Mixed-ish, and High Fidelity. Besides Robinson and Rudd, the film's cast includes Kate Mara, Jack Dylan Grazer, Josh Segarra, and Billy Bryk, all of whom contribute to the comedic dynamics of the story.
The plot centers around Craig Waterman, played by Robinson, whose peace as a suburban father is unsettled by his new neighbor Brian, portrayed by Rudd. The film begins with Craig attempting to forge what he hopes will be a meaningful friendship with Brian. Yet, their budding connection quickly escalates toward comedic chaos when Brian abruptly decides he no longer wishes to maintain their friendship. This sudden shift sends Craig spiraling, highlighting the film's blend of humor and discomfort.
According to the trailer, the comedic tension is palpable as it showcases the awkwardness and charm of their interactions. The film's tone appears to dabble not only in the lighthearted absurdities of Robinson's style but also taps deeply on themes of obsession when friendships sour. It kicks off with fun scenes of the neighbors attempting to connect, only to culminate with Brian’s declaration: “Look, we had a couple of really nice hangs, but I think it best if we go our separate ways.” This quote encapsulates the film's absurdist humor.
Robinson's signature quirky comedic style—evident from his performances on I Think You Should Leave—is expected to shine through, allowing him to play the overstimulated and bewildered Craig. Critics are already drawing comparisons, stating, “Having successfully built a devoted following as a leading purveyor of cringe comedy... the show’s rubber-faced star/co-creator ups his game with the innocently titled Friendship,” penned by Michael Rechtshaffen of The Hollywood Reporter, accentuating the anticipation building around the film.
Throughout the trailer, we see glimpses of the delightful chaos awaiting viewers, from awkward meet-ups to hilarious miscommunications. Robinson’s character goes from initial elation of having found companionship to grappling with the anxiety of potential rejection when Rudd’s Brian's true feelings surface. At one moment, Craig exclaims, “You all accepted me way too fast,” punctuating the crux of the story with his characteristic humor. This penchant for capturing the awkward moments inherent to male friendships is expected to resonate deeply with audiences.
The film adjusts Rudd's charming persona, presenting him as both engaging and somewhat unpredictable—qualities which align perfectly with the storyline. The comedic tension born from Robinson's quirky portrayal facing off against Rudd's more grounded yet charmingly complex character is anticipated to be both entertaining and unsettling, exemplifying the film’s cringeworthy approach to comedy.
Fans of I Think You Should Leave are especially eager to see how Robinson adapts his sketch comedy universe to film. The early buzz surrounding Friendship suggests it could strike the perfect balance of humor and discomfort, offering audiences heavy laughs spiced with moments of genuine tension. Critics and fans are already hinting at its potential as not just another comedic adventure but as something akin to “a laugh-until-you-cry nightmare comedy about male bonding gone wrong,” as noted by early reviews.
Navigated by A24, known for its risk-taking with unconventional narratives, the film promises to draw from both familiar comedic elements and the unique storytelling Robinson is celebrated for. By bringing together both established and up-and-coming talent, Friendship appears poised to captivate viewers with its fresh, absurd perspective on modern male friendships.
With its combination of offbeat humor, relatable themes, and the chemistry between Robinson and Rudd, Friendship stands ready to carve out its niche when it opens theatrically. Audiences can closely follow this burgeoning friendship—and all its eventual complications—come May 9, 2025.