“The Friend."

“The Friend” (2024, Apple TV) drama film, based on the 2018 novel by Sigrid Nunez. New York City writer Iris finds her comfortable, solitary life thrown into disarray after her closest friend and mentor bequeaths her a Great Dane named Apollo. Stars Naomi Watts and Bill Murray. 



       I told myself I will not watch this movie. I have grown so attached to dogs (and cats) that I easily get “over-sentimental” when I see a film about them. “The Friend” is no different. Yet it is “different” from what I usually saw (apart from 2009's “Hachi: A Dog's Tale”) because it tackles the grief of a dog after his human “dad” passes away.

       When we are gone, imagine how our dog processes the fact that we will not show up on the front door anymore? I think about it but what can we do? No more me bringing Arrow toys home whenever I am out on errands, not me walking her anymore, she sleeps in bed with each night and wakes up each morning, sharing dinner as well? And sits beside me in a chair as I work in front of my laptop. Then I am not there? 

       Yes, I cried watching this movie. Arrow keeps my humanity alive, especially amidst my saddest days. Just her, being there. Attentive, alert, listening–yet she also reminds me of stuff, 24/7. 🎥💻📽

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