Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about The Friend (2025), including its synopsis, release date, streaming availability, cast, and more.
How to watch The Friend (2025) outside the US on Paramount+ with Showtime
To watch The Friend (2025) outside the US, you can use a premium VPN to bypass regional restrictions. Simply install the VPN app, connect to a US server, and then log in to Paramount+ with Showtime using your account. Once connected, you’ll be able to stream the movie online from anywhere.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a US-based server.
- Open Paramount+ website or launch its app, then login or sign up for a new account.
- You are all set to watch The Friend (2025) movie now!
The Friend (2025) Movie Synopsis
The Friend is a drama film starring Oscar nominees Naomi Watts and Bill Murray, based on the acclaimed novel by Sigrid Nunez. Directed and adapted for the screen by David Siegel and Scott McGehee, the movie tells an emotional and heartwarming story of love, grief, and healing.
The film follows Iris (Naomi Watts), a woman grappling with profound loss, who forms an unexpected bond with Walter (Bill Murray) and his loyal Great Dane, Bing. Together, they explore themes of companionship, resilience, and the ways friendship can heal even the deepest emotional wounds.
The Friend (2025) Release Date
- Theatrical Release: March 28, 2025 (United States)
- Streaming Release: August 25, 2025, on Paramount+ with Showtime
Where to watch The Friend (2025) in the US
In the United States, The Friend (2025) is streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime, including the Paramount+ Amazon Channel for Prime members. Viewers can also rent it digitally for $5.99 in HD or 4K on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, and Plex. For those who prefer to own a copy, the movie is available to purchase for $14.99 on the same platforms.
Where to watch The Friend (2025) in Canada
In Canada, The Friend is available for free on Hoopla with a participating library card, making it the most accessible option. For on-demand rentals, both Apple TV and Amazon Video list the film at CA$6.99 in HD. If you’d like to add it to your digital library, you can buy it for CA$14.99 on either service.
Where to watch The Friend (2025) in the United Kingdom
In the UK, audiences can rent The Friend for £4.99 on Apple TV, Amazon Video, or Sky Store, with options available in HD and 4K. Those who want a permanent copy can purchase it for £6.99 on Sky Store or £11.99 on Apple TV and Amazon Video. This gives viewers the choice between a simple one-time rental or a full digital purchase.
Where to watch The Friend (2025) in Australia
In Australia, the movie is still exclusive to cinemas, with screenings at Hoyts, Palace Cinemas, Village Cinemas, Cineplex Australia, and Event Cinemas. Since no digital release has launched yet, the only way to experience it is on the big screen.
The Friend (2025) Cast
- Naomi Watts as Iris
- Bill Murray as Walter
- Ann Dowd as Marjorie
- Constance Wu as Tuesday
- Sarah Pidgeon as Val
- Carla Gugino as Elaine
- Noma Dumezweni as Barbara
- Felix Solis as Hektor
- Owen Teague as Carter
- Bing the Great Dane as Himself
Can You Watch The Friend (2025) Online for Free?
Yes, you can stream The Friend (2025) online for free by signing up for a Paramount+ with Showtime free trial.
Is The Friend (2025) Suitable for All Ages?
The Friend is rated R for thematic elements and mature content. While it is a deeply moving film, it may not be suitable for children or young teens due to emotional themes of grief and loss. It is best recommended for mature audiences.
Where Can I Download The Friend (2025)?
You can legally download The Friend (2025) for offline viewing through:
- Paramount+ app (with an active subscription)
- Amazon Video, Apple TV, or Fandango At Home, after purchase.
What to Watch Next if You Loved The Friend (2025)
If you enjoyed The Friend, here are similar heartfelt dramas worth watching:
- The Farewell (2019) – starring Awkwafina
- A Man Called Otto (2022) – starring Tom Hanks
- Pieces of a Woman (2020) – starring Vanessa Kirby
- The Lost Daughter (2021) – starring Olivia Colman
- On the Rocks (2020) – starring Bill Murray
FAQs
1. Who directed The Friend (2025)?
The movie is directed by David Siegel and Scott McGehee, the filmmaking duo known for What Maisie Knew and The Deep End.
2. Is The Friend (2025) based on a book?
Yes, it is based on the award-winning novel by Sigrid Nunez, which explores themes of grief and companionship.
3. Does Bill Murray have a lead role in The Friend?
Yes, Bill Murray plays Walter, one of the central characters whose bond with Iris (Naomi Watts) and Bing the dog drives the story.
5. How long is The Friend (2025)?
The film runs 1 hour and 59 minutes.
The Friend (2025) Trailer
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