The first official trailer for The Friend, a new drama from Bleecker Street, has been released, offering a glimpse into the poignant narrative of friendship and healing. Directed by David Siegel and Scott McGehee, the film stars Bill Murray and Naomi Watts in leading roles, with a nationwide theatrical release scheduled for April 2025.
Adapted from a bestselling novel, The Friend follows the story of Iris (played by Naomi Watts), whose life in New York is turned upside down after the passing of her mentor and close friend, Walter (Bill Murray). In his will, Walter leaves Iris his beloved Great Dane, Apollo, a dog that becomes both a symbol of his memory and a source of unexpected challenges. As Iris grapples with grief and her creative struggles, Apollo becomes an unlikely companion who helps her navigate the turbulent waters of loss and personal growth.
The film’s ensemble cast also includes Sarah Pidgeon, Carla Gugino, Constance Wu, Noma Dumezweni, Ann Dowd, Felix Solis, Owen Teague, and Bing.
Directed by Siegel and McGehee, who co-wrote the screenplay, The Friend draws on the filmmakers’ previous collaborations, including Suture (1994), The Deep End (2001), Bee Season (2005), and Montana Story (2021). The duo also serves as producers, alongside Liza Chasin and Mike Spreter. Naomi Watts executive produces the film, with Margaret Chernin also credited as an executive producer.
Watts, known for her recent role as Babe Paley in Feud: Capote vs. The Swans (2024), starred in Infinite Storm and Goodnight Mommy (2022). Bill Murray, who recently reprised his iconic role as Dr. Peter Venkman in Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024), will also appear in Dito Montiel’s crime comedy Riff Raff, arriving in theaters on February 28, 2025.
The Friend will debut in select New York City theaters on March 28, 2025, before expanding nationwide on April 4, 2025.
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