Trending: Friendship (2024) by Andrew DeYoung: A Cringeworthy Comedy of Male Obsession

Core Summary: The Perils of Desperate Bromance

Friendship is a 2024 dark comedy film directed and written by Andrew DeYoung. It centers on Craig Waterman (Tim Robinson), a socially awkward suburban dad and marketing executive, who develops an intense and increasingly obsessive yearning to befriend his charismatic new neighbor, Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd), a local weatherman. As Craig's life spirals amidst a fraying marriage and a distant relationship with his son, his desperate attempts to forge an adult male friendship with Austin lead to a series of escalatingly cringeworthy, bizarre, and ultimately destructive events that threaten to ruin both their lives.

Snapshot: When Yearning Turns Terrifyingly Awkward

A suburban dad's desperate desire for male friendship takes a darkly comedic and unsettling turn as his obsession with his cool new neighbor threatens to unravel both their lives. Prepare for an uncomfortable and hilarious descent into modern male isolation.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30505698/

Link Review: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/friendship-tim-robinson-a24-film-review-2025

About movie: https://a24films.com/films/friendship

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/friendship-2024 (US), https://www.justwatch.com/au/movie/friendship-2024 (Australia), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/friendship-2024 (Canada)

Deep Dive: The Unraveling of Craig Waterman

Friendship plunges the audience into the increasingly chaotic life of Craig Waterman (Tim Robinson), a middle-aged marketing executive struggling on multiple fronts. His marriage to Tami (Kate Mara) is strained, partly due to his emotional unavailability, and she's rekindled a relationship with an ex-boyfriend. His relationship with his teenage son, Steven (Jack Dylan Grazer), is equally distant. Into this void steps Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd), a charming and seemingly effortlessly cool local meteorologist who moves in next door.

The initial encounter is innocuous: Austin drops off a gift, and Tami accepts an invitation for Craig to have a beer with Austin. Reluctantly, Craig goes, and to his surprise, they hit it off. They bond over music, work frustrations, and a shared sense of restlessness. Craig, inspired by Austin's apparent ease, introduces his personal mantra, "just ask," which encourages Austin to pursue his dream of becoming a daytime weatherman. As their bond strengthens, Craig becomes increasingly infatuated with Austin, feeling energized and becoming a more attentive husband and father.

However, the "friendship" quickly takes a dark and deeply uncomfortable turn. When Austin invites Craig to a hangout with his friends, Craig's insecurity and desperate need to fit in lead him to escalate a friendly boxing match, culminating in a cheap shot. His bizarre self-punishment – stuffing a bar of soap in his mouth – alienates the group, and Austin begins to distance himself.

Craig's obsession intensifies. He makes unannounced visits to Austin's workplace, causing Austin to stumble during his first daytime weather broadcast. When Austin formally cuts ties, Craig escalates further, breaking into Austin's home and inadvertently stealing a handgun. His manic attempts to recreate the intimacy he felt with Austin lead to taking Tami on a disorienting date through underground tunnels, where Tami goes missing. Both Craig and Austin are later arrested for trespassing in the sewer. In jail, Austin reveals a secret: he wears a hairpiece, a detail he desperately begs Craig to keep.

Tami is found safe, but Craig's downward spiral continues. He's shunned by Tami's friends, overshadowed by her ex, loses his job after a public meltdown, and Tami moves out. Despite attempts to rebuild his life, the sight of Austin having another "guys' night" and driving a yellow sports car (which Austin had once promised Craig would be the first to ride in if he ever bought one) sends Craig over the edge. He storms the gathering, holding the group at gunpoint in a deranged attempt to recreate their first night. A struggle with Austin causes the gun to go off, and Austin's toupée comes off again. Craig, desperate to preserve this shared secret, demands everyone stay down while Austin fixes his hair. The police arrive, and Craig knocks himself unconscious attempting to flee. The film ends with Craig in the patrol car, imagining an alternate, happier version of events, while Austin gives him a knowing wink.

Directed and written by Andrew DeYoung, Friendship marks his feature directorial debut, though he has a strong background in directing acclaimed TV comedies like I Think You Should Leave, Our Flag Means Death, and PEN15. This influence is clear in the film's "cringe comedy" style, escalating absurdity, and the central performance by Tim Robinson, known for his work on I Think You Should Leave. Produced by A24, the film also features Kate Mara as Tami and Jack Dylan Grazer as Steven. The film delves into themes of male loneliness, social anxiety, and the desperate search for connection in modern suburbia, blending dark humor with genuinely uncomfortable moments.

The Journey: From Awkward Neighbor to Unhinged Obsession

• A New Neighbor: Craig, a struggling suburban dad, meets his charismatic new neighbor, Austin.

• Initial Connection: Craig and Austin surprisingly bond, sparking a desperate yearning in Craig for genuine friendship.

• Escalating Awkwardness: Craig's social anxieties and neediness lead to embarrassing incidents that push Austin away.

• Obsession Takes Hold: As Austin distances himself, Craig's desire for connection morphs into a disturbing obsession.

• Life Unravels: Craig's actions lead to marital strain, job loss, and increasing social isolation.

• The Breaking Point: A final, desperate attempt to force intimacy leads to a dangerous confrontation.

• Consequences and Fantasy: Craig faces the consequences of his actions, retreating into a warped fantasy of their initial bond.

Director's Lens: Cringe Comedy as a Window to Male Malaise

Andrew DeYoung, in his feature directorial debut, brings a distinctive blend of cringe comedy and unsettling psychological drama to Friendship. Drawing heavily from his experience directing sketch comedy, particularly I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson, DeYoung masterfully crafts scenarios that are simultaneously hilarious and deeply uncomfortable. His style is characterized by:

• Escalating Absurdity: DeYoung takes mundane social situations and allows them to spiral into increasingly bizarre and chaotic territory, mirroring the protagonist's unraveling mind.

• Behavioral Comedy: Rather than relying on traditional jokes, DeYoung focuses on exaggerated, yet painfully relatable, human behavior and reactions to awkward situations.

• Mismatched Tones: The film often feels like a drama that is slowly coming apart at the seams, blending genuine pathos with laugh-out-loud moments of cringe, creating a unique and disorienting viewing experience.

• Suburban Gothic/Thriller Elements: While primarily a comedy, DeYoung infuses elements of psychological thriller, particularly in the third act, showcasing the dark undertones of Craig's obsession.

• Focus on Male Loneliness: DeYoung directly addresses themes of modern masculinity, social isolation, and the awkwardness men can face in forming meaningful connections, often without lecturing.

DeYoung stated his interest in exploring a "break-up story between two older men who become enmeshed (to an unhealthy degree)." He approaches screenwriting organically, letting ideas flow, and emphasizes emotional authenticity to ground the film's surprises. His goal is to create something "surprising" and "authentic," and "to entertain" while offering something audiences "haven't seen before."

Central Themes: Isolation, Obsession, and Fragile Masculinity

• Male Loneliness and Connection: The film deeply explores the unspoken struggles men face in forming and maintaining adult friendships, particularly in suburban contexts.

• Obsession and Boundary Erosion: Craig's desperate yearning quickly transforms into an unhealthy, intrusive obsession, showcasing the destructive nature of unchecked desires.

• Social Awkwardness and Performance: The film highlights the anxieties of social interaction and the pressure to perform a certain persona, especially when trying to impress or fit in.

• The Fragility of Identity: Both Craig and Austin are revealed to be masking vulnerabilities, suggesting that even seemingly confident individuals can be deeply insecure.

• Midlife Crisis and Disconnection: Craig's unraveling is tied to a broader sense of dissatisfaction with his marriage, family life, and career, reflecting a modern malaise.

• Cringe as Comedy and Drama: The film uses excruciating social situations not just for laughs, but to underscore the protagonist's desperation and the tragic consequences of his actions.

Why It Shines: A Masterclass in Uncomfortable Humor

• Tim Robinson's Tour-de-Force: Tim Robinson delivers a career-defining performance, embodying Craig's cringe-inducing desperation with alarming effectiveness and dark comedic brilliance.

• Paul Rudd's Subtlety: Paul Rudd's portrayal of Austin is perfectly calibrated, providing the smooth, charismatic foil that makes Craig's obsession both understandable and terrifying.

• A24's Signature Blend: The film fits A24's reputation for unique, often uncomfortable, and critically acclaimed genre-bending cinema, appealing to a discerning audience.

• Innovative Comedy: It pushes the boundaries of "cringe comedy," blending it with elements of psychological thriller to create something genuinely fresh and unsettlingly funny.

• Timely Social Commentary: The film taps into contemporary anxieties about male isolation and the challenges of authentic connection in modern society.

Critics Reception: Uncomfortable Laughter and Alarming Brilliance

"Friendship (2024)" has received a largely positive critical reception, with many reviewers highlighting its unique blend of dark comedy and psychological discomfort. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a high approval rating, and on Metacritic, it boasts a strong score, indicating generally favorable reviews.

Critics have lauded the film as an "uncomfortable, timely exploration of modern male isolation," praising its ability to evoke both intense laughter and genuine squirming. The film's unique comedic sensibility, heavily influenced by Andrew DeYoung's prior work with Tim Robinson on I Think You Should Leave, is a frequent point of discussion. Reviewers note how the film expands Robinson's signature "cringe comedy" into a feature-length narrative, allowing for a deeper dive into the "demented" and "obsessed" psyche of his character, Craig.

Tim Robinson's performance is almost universally praised, described as "alarmingly good," "manic," and a "treasure," with many calling it a standout. Paul Rudd also earns accolades for his nuanced portrayal of the charismatic Austin, providing the perfect counterpoint to Robinson's escalating absurdity. The chemistry between the two leads is considered central to the film's success.

Reviewers also commend Andrew DeYoung's direction and screenplay for effectively blending the comedic with genuinely unsettling, almost thriller-like elements, particularly in the film's "third-act descent into the surreal netherworld." While some acknowledge that the specific brand of cringe humor might not appeal to everyone, the consensus leans towards its effectiveness in exploring themes of male malaise, social anxiety, and the desperate human need for connection in a fresh and often brutally funny way. The film is seen as "a masterfully rendered" work that "comment[s] on the dark and totally warped corners of the human condition."

Audience Reactions: Laughing Through the Cringe

Audience reactions to "Friendship (2024)" are often characterized by a mix of discomfort, uproarious laughter, and a surprising degree of relatability. The film's specific brand of "cringe comedy" deeply resonates with some, leading to reports of theaters "going nuts" with "gasps and laughs."

• Love for Cringe Humor: Fans of Tim Robinson's work on I Think You Should Leave are a key demographic and are largely enthusiastic, finding the film to be a successful feature-length extension of his signature style where characters "go a little too far and just keep doubling down."

• Painful Relatability: Many viewers connect with Craig's underlying social awkwardness and desperation for connection, even as his actions become extreme. Moments of his "rock bottom" are cited as being surprisingly relatable, hitting on universal feelings of not being able to let go or wanting to fit in.

• Divisive Comedy: The film's humor is explicitly acknowledged as not being for everyone. Some audience members have found it too awkward, repetitive, or simply not funny, leading to polarized opinions and even some walking out.

• Discussion on Masculinity: The film sparks conversations about modern masculinity, male loneliness, and the pressures men face to conform or connect in specific ways, resonating with those interested in societal commentary.

• Reactions to the Escalation: The film's dark turn in the third act is a point of both fascination and occasional discomfort, with viewers reacting to how the comedy gives way to more serious, unsettling territory.

Overall, "Friendship" appeals strongly to audiences who appreciate unconventional, uncomfortable comedy that pushes boundaries and explores deeper psychological themes, willing to laugh at themselves and the awkwardness of human interaction.

Box Office Performance: A24's Niche Success

Friendship (2024), distributed by A24 and Paramount Pictures/Republic Pictures in the US, had its theatrical release in May 2025 (USA). With a reported box office gross of $16 million against what is likely a modest budget (typical for A24's character-driven films), "Friendship" appears to be a niche commercial success.

Its performance aligns with A24's strategy of backing critically acclaimed, distinctive films that find their audience through strong word-of-mouth and a loyal following, rather than aiming for blockbuster numbers. The film's appeal to fans of Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd, combined with its unique comedic tone, allowed it to carve out a profitable space in the market. Its success indicates that there is a healthy demand for original, uncomfortable comedies that explore modern social anxieties with a daring artistic vision.

Production Notes: From Sketch Comedy Roots to Feature Debut

Friendship (2024) marks the feature directorial and screenwriting debut of Andrew DeYoung. His background is deeply rooted in television comedy, having directed episodes for acclaimed series such as I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson, Our Flag Means Death, PEN15, High Fidelity, and The Baby-Sitters Club. This extensive experience in crafting character-driven comedic moments with escalating absurdity is evident in Friendship.

The film began principal photography in January 2024 and completed post-production by July 2024. The inspiration for the story came from DeYoung's personal experiences with complicated adult friendships, which he described as "pathetic but also pretty funny." He aimed to explore "what would a breakup story between two middle-aged men look like."

DeYoung approached the writing process organically, emphasizing a "gut feeling" for what would be surprising and emotionally correct, even within a comedic framework. The film was intentionally shot like a drama, with a serious aesthetic, to make the humor hit harder. DeYoung cited The Killing of a Sacred Deer as an inspiration for its blend of tension and humor. The cast is led by Tim Robinson (Craig) and Paul Rudd (Austin), with significant supporting roles from Kate Mara (Tami) and Jack Dylan Grazer (Steven). The film's music was composed by Keegan DeWitt, known for his work on independent films. The production's success lies in its ability to translate the specific comedic sensibilities of Robinson and DeYoung's previous collaborations into a cohesive and impactful feature narrative

Production Companies: A24's Backing for Distinctive Voices

• A24: The renowned independent film production and distribution company, known for its distinctive, often genre-bending, and critically acclaimed films. Their involvement signals the film's potential for unique artistic vision and a targeted release strategy.

• Paramount Pictures / Republic Pictures: Involved in the distribution, likely contributing to its wider theatrical rollout in the US.

Sales & Distribution: Strategic Niche Release

• A24: Primary US distributor, managing its theatrical and digital release, consistent with their usual approach to unique indie features.

• Paramount Pictures / Republic Pictures: Co-distributor in the US, aiding in broader market reach.

• International Distributors: Specific international distributors would handle releases in other territories following its US premiere.

The distribution strategy focused on a targeted theatrical release, likely in major cities, before expanding to digital platforms, leveraging A24's strong brand identity and the star power of Robinson and Rudd.

Release Timeline: Premiering in Fall 2024, Wider Release Spring 2025

• Initial Premiere (Canada): September 8, 2024.

• US Theatrical Release: May 9, 2025.

• PVOD Release: June 17, 2025.

Why See It: A Masterclass in Uncomfortable Humor

• Tim Robinson's Tour-de-Force: Tim Robinson delivers a career-defining performance, embodying Craig's cringe-inducing desperation with alarming effectiveness and dark comedic brilliance.

• Paul Rudd's Subtlety: Paul Rudd's portrayal of Austin is perfectly calibrated, providing the smooth, charismatic foil that makes Craig's obsession both understandable and terrifying.

• A24's Signature Blend: The film fits A24's reputation for unique, often uncomfortable, and critically acclaimed genre-bending cinema, appealing to a discerning audience.

• Innovative Comedy: It pushes the boundaries of "cringe comedy," blending it with elements of psychological thriller to create something genuinely fresh and unsettlingly funny.

• Timely Social Commentary: The film taps into contemporary anxieties about male isolation and the challenges of authentic connection in modern society.

Why Watch: For an Unforgettable Ride Through Social Mayhem

• If you love cringe comedy: This film takes the genre to new, sometimes shockingly hilarious, depths, especially if you're a fan of Tim Robinson's style.

• For a dark take on male friendship: It's an insightful, albeit extreme, look at the anxieties and desperations that can underlie adult male bonds.

• To see surprising dramatic turns: Despite being a comedy, the film ventures into genuinely uncomfortable and almost thriller-like territory, keeping you on edge.

• If you appreciate films that make you think and squirm: Friendship is designed to provoke both laughter and reflection on social behavior.

Movie Trend: Elevated Cringe Comedy

"Friendship (2024)" is a prime example of the "Elevated Cringe Comedy" movie trend. This trend sees filmmakers taking the inherently uncomfortable and awkward humor popularized in sketch comedy (like I Think You Should Leave) and extending it into feature-length narratives, often with a darker, more dramatic, or even psychologically thrilling undertone. These films move beyond mere gags to use cringe as a tool for deeper character study and social commentary, exploring themes of social anxiety, desperation, and the fragility of ego within everyday interactions. The humor is often derived from characters' escalating poor decisions and oblivious social blunders, pushing boundaries while revealing uncomfortable truths about human behavior.

Social Trend: The Crisis of Male Connection

"Friendship (2024)" powerfully resonates with the social trend of "The Crisis of Male Connection" or "Male Loneliness Epidemic." The film's central premise—a suburban man's desperate, obsessive yearning for adult male friendship—directly speaks to contemporary discussions about the increasing isolation among men, the challenges they face in forming deep, meaningful bonds outside of family or work, and the societal pressures that can hinder emotional expression and vulnerability. Craig's downward spiral serves as an exaggerated, yet darkly comedic, mirror to the real-world struggles many men experience in navigating social interactions and finding authentic connection in a modern, often atomized, society.

Final Conclusions: A Deeply Uncomfortable Masterpiece of Modern Male Angst

"Friendship (2024)" emerges as a remarkably bold and unsettlingly hilarious feature film debut from Andrew DeYoung, firmly establishing him as a distinctive voice in contemporary comedy. It is far more than just an extended sketch; it’s a meticulously crafted character study that plunges the audience into the increasingly deranged psyche of a man desperate for connection, brilliantly brought to life by Tim Robinson's fearless performance. The film masterfully exploits the comedic potential of social awkwardness and obsession, while subtly weaving in a psychological thriller undertone that keeps viewers on edge. With Paul Rudd as the effortlessly charming yet ultimately distant object of Craig's fixation, "Friendship" provides a piercing, if exaggerated, commentary on the silent epidemic of male loneliness and the desperate, often destructive, lengths individuals will go to find belonging. Its specific brand of cringe humor may not be for everyone, but for those willing to lean into the discomfort, it offers a uniquely funny, tragically relatable, and ultimately unforgettable cinematic experience that resonates long after the laughter subsides.