Friendship Movies (2025): A Darkly Comedic Take on Male Bonding

Andrew DeYoung’s Friendship Movies (2025) is a hilariously uncomfortable exploration of adult male friendships, blending cringe comedy with psychological tension. Starring Tim Robinson, Paul Rudd, and Kate Mara, the film takes a familiar premise—two men forming a friendship—and twists it into something unsettling yet undeniably funny.

Craig Waterman (Tim Robinson) is a struggling marketing executive whose life is falling apart. His marriage to Tami (Kate Mara) is strained, his teenage son barely acknowledges him, and his career is stagnant. Enter Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd), a charismatic local weatherman who seems to have everything Craig lacks—confidence, charm, and a tight-knit group of friends. Desperate for connection, Craig latches onto Austin, but his enthusiasm quickly turns obsessive. As Craig’s attempts to integrate himself into Austin’s life become increasingly desperate, the film shifts from lighthearted comedy to an unsettling psychological study of loneliness and social rejection.

Friendship thrives on its ability to make audiences laugh while simultaneously making them squirm. DeYoung’s direction ensures that every interaction between Craig and Austin teeters on the edge of normalcy and discomfort. The film explores themes of social anxiety, toxic masculinity, and the unspoken rules of male bonding, making it more than just a comedy—it’s a reflection on the human need for acceptance.

The film’s biggest strength is Robinson’s performance, which perfectly captures the awkward desperation of a man who just wants to belong. Rudd’s effortless charm makes Austin a compelling foil, and their dynamic drives the film’s tension. However, some critics note that the film’s tonal shifts may feel abrupt, making it difficult to categorize as purely comedy or psychological drama.