Friendship Review
Tim Robinson vehicle Friendship is a painfully funny movie about exactly what it says in its title.
Tim Robinson, Paul Rudd in Friendship. Credit: Spencer Pazer. Courtesy of A24.
Writer-director Andrew DeYoung's feature directorial debut, Friendship, is a hilarious dark comedy that showcases star Tim Robinson’s specific brand of cringe comedy performance. Robinson has built a career out of his work on shows like Netflix’s I Think You Should Leave, and the film plays out like a feature-length sketch on his show, thanks to its emphasis on his persona. The film premiered at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and was soon acquired by indie powerhouse A24 for US distribution.
Tim Robinson plays Craig, a suburban dad in a rocky relationship with his cancer-survivor wife, Tami (Kate Mara). Craig meets charming new neighbor Austin (Paul Rudd) and they become friends. Austin becomes increasingly uneasy with Craig, and after a series of incidents at a get-together at Austin’s house, he breaks off his friendship with Craig. Things spiral as Craig’s desperation to be Austin’s friend grows.
Robinson has perfected his over-the-top portrayal of insecure, self-centered, socially inept oddballs who try too hard, and Craig’s desperation for connection comes across in his performance. Part of me was disappointed that Robinson didn’t break out of his persona, which makes the film play out almost like it’s a part of his show, but frankly, he’s perfect for the part. It’s fascinating to see him surrounded by normal people who react naturally to his antics outside of the heightened reality of his show. Casting Paul Rudd, known for his affable, effortlessly charming persona, as Robinson’s foil is inspired. Conner O’Malley makes a short but hilarious appearance as a party guest.
The movie's visual style contrasts with its comedic genre. While most broad comedies are typically shot with flat, bright, high-key lighting, Friendship cinematography favors natural light whenever possible. This choice helps to anchor the film in reality despite Tim Robinson's absurd performance as Craig. It enhances the film’s insightful exploration of the challenges of forming adult friendships and the feelings of exclusion that can accompany them. The style makes the picture poignant in a way most conventional comedies aren’t and makes it much harder not to sympathise with Craig, even as you tell yourself you’d never, ever do what he does.
Kate Mara, Tim Robinson in Friendship. Courtesy of A24.
I personally find it more difficult to watch the kind of avoidable social catastrophes depicted in Friendship than I do horror. However, through the cringe, there’s a very funny movie here that should be remembered as one of the best comedies of the year. Audiences will laugh as they get their introduction to Tim Robinson’s brand of insanity. Don’t let this one slip by.
Friendship has been in limited release since May 9, 2025, and will open wide this Friday, May 23.
