Naomi Watts, Bill Murray and a Great Dane Star in ‘The Friend’ Trailer
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Naomi Watts and Bill Murray are set to showcase their real-life friendship on the big screen once again in the upcoming movie ‘The Friend’. Recently, Bleecker Street unveiled the trailer for this film during the Westminster Dog Show, generating excitement among fans of the talented duo. The plot follows Watts, portraying a novelist in New York City, who finds herself responsible for caring for her late friend Walter’s (played by Murray) Great Dane, Apollo, after his sudden passing.

According to the official synopsis of the movie, “After the unexpected death of her closest friend and mentor, New York novelist and writing teacher Iris becomes the caretaker of both his literary legacy and his beloved Great Dane, Apollo.” Despite initial reluctance, Watts’ character brings the large dog into her small Manhattan apartment, leading to an unexpected bond between the two. Together, they navigate through grief, embarking on a journey towards healing and acceptance.
‘The Friend’ made its rounds at prestigious film festivals such as the Telluride Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival in the fall of 2024, building anticipation for its theatrical release. During an interview at TIFF, Naomi Watts revealed that her involvement in the project stemmed from her friendship with Bill Murray, acknowledging the undeniable chemistry they share on-screen. The star-studded cast also includes Sarah Pidgeon, Constance Wu, Ann Dowd, Noma Dumezweni, Felix Solis, Owen Teague and Carla Gugino.
As executive producer of the film, Naomi Watts worked closely with the co-writers and co-directors, David Siegel and Scott McGehee, to bring ‘The Friend’ to life. The movie is slated to premiere exclusively in New York City on March 28, followed by a nationwide release on April 4. This heartwarming tale of friendship and loss promises to resonate with audiences as they witness the transformative power of human connections, even in the face of adversity.
Naomi Watts and Bill Murray’s on-screen chemistry, coupled with the enchanting presence of a Great Dane, are set to captivate viewers in ‘The Friend’. The trailer offers a glimpse into the heartfelt narrative that explores themes of love, loss and companionship, leaving a lasting impact on those who experience the film. With its stellar ensemble cast and touching storyline, ‘The Friend’ is poised to be a must-watch movie that tugs at the heartstrings and celebrates the unbreakable bond between humans and their furry companions.
In conclusion, ‘The Friend’ represents a poignant exploration of grief and resilience, brought to life by the dynamic performances of Naomi Watts, Bill Murray and the adorable Great Dane, Apollo. Audiences can look forward to immersing themselves in this touching tale of friendship and healing when the film hits theatres next month. Get ready to be moved by the emotional journey portrayed on screen, as Watts and Murray deliver a heartfelt and memorable cinematic experience in ‘The Friend’.
