The Friend
The standout performer in The Friend sounds like he's already a star, but you won't have heard of him. Doleful-eyed and expressive, he articulates the deepest emotions with wordless economy. Played by a black-and-white Great Dane called Bing, Apollo is a dog with range.
Which is handy because this sincerely-felt New York dramedy, based on Sigrid Nunez's much-praised 2018 novel, leans hard on the piebald pooch's ability to communicate the sadness of losing someone without whom life has no colour and joy. Of course, as a dog – albeit arguably the finest dog actor since Anatomy of a Fall 's Messi – this is communicated via sad eyes, pointy ears and curling up in places he's not supposed to be.
The devoted Apollo belongs, initially at least, to writer, professor and lothario Walter (Bill Murray, atoning for Garfield here). Then, out of the blue, we're at Walter's wake. He's left instructions for the crestfallen dog to be rehoused with his friend, writer and literary professor Iris (Naomi Watts) – a pretty selfish act considering a) he hasn't consulted her on it, and b) she lives in a rent-controlled apartment where pets are banned. How does she honour her old friend's wishes without becoming homeless in the process? Being lumbered with a 180-pound grief metaphor isn't all it's cracked up to be.
It's a classic Murray turn in the brief time he's granted – feckless but kinda loveable all the same, and leaving a trail of broken-hearted ex-wives in (and at) his wake – but this is firmly Watts and Apollo's movie. Their shared grief acts as an unspoken glue, and she falls for the lugubrious Apollo in spite of herself. He's adorable, it's relatable.
Being lumbered with a 180-pound grief metaphor isn't all it's cracked up to be
If only the other characters were as fleshed out. Co-directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel struggle to superimpose Nunez's bold formal pivots (the novel drew comparisons with James Joyce, Samuel Beckett and Virginia Woolf), but they don't particularly work on screen – especially in a metatextual flourish that sees Walter ushered back from the dead as a character in Iris's book. The Friend is also inattentive to its shallow supporting characters, reducing Walter's ex-wives to crass parodies (Carla Gugino's emotionally unresolved Elaine is the exception). It doesn't always swerve mawkishness either, with one especially glaring and manipulative moment that comes late in the film.
But it's a lovely New York movie, and spending time in its world of Upper East brownstones, Manhattan parks and Dumbo trails is a real pleasure. In the spirit of Woody Allen, Ira Sachs and Nicole Holofcener, it gently traverses the city's literary classes – a world of blocked writers and impatient publishers, clever-clever dinner party chat and therapy meltdowns. And it pulls it off without feeling pretentious.
The Friend is a poignantly affecting watch that mostly earns its emotional payoff, delivering gentle laughs along the way. It'll have them howling in the aisles at the next dog-friendly screening.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
01-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
‘I visited Orlando's newest theme park and one new thing blew everyone away'
Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe in Florida has opened its doors – with five new worlds to explore within – so naturally I went along to sample the magical delights Universal Orlando Resort's newest theme park, Epic Universe, has changed the face of the landscape and what it means to enjoy a holiday full of thrills and spills. The £7 billion theme park is an immersive, multisensory experience with storytelling at its core. The resort's fourth theme park and the first to open in 25 years, it invites guests to 'explore vibrant worlds filled with extraordinary adventures that go beyond their wildest imaginations" – and it really is magical. With 50 awe-inspiring attractions,entertainment, dining and shopping experiences in its new park, the Universal parks make up a 700-acre resort space. But it's not just the stunning scenery, experiences and rides that blew me away - my entire group were wowed by the culinary experiences inside the park. Forget burgers, hotdogs and popcorn - although readily available if you fancy - I dined on exquisite seafood from scallops to King Oysters at Atlantic and freshly made Dim Sum and Ramen noodles at The Blue Dragon, both in Celestial Park. I also found the best purple pizza called Pizza Lunare in Pizza Moon, complete with an Ube crust - the chunks of roasted garlic were to die for - and melt-in-the-mouth beef brisket at The Oak & Star Tavern. Let's explore the worlds a little closer for when you plan your first visit... Celestial Park Step through the Chronos – the impressive first portal tower and entrance to the park that when 'powered' will align to open up five magical portals for visitors to explore. I first enjoyed Celestial Park – the cosmic heart of Epic Universe and so much more than just a starting point. Local 'Celestians' who inhabit here tend to the lush, tree-lined walkways and I found myself whisked into a whimsical world of greenery, tropical flowers, fountains and ponds. Everything here is connected heavily to astrology, from the first sight of Luna, goddess of the moon, who oversees the night's luminescence by her Neptune Pools, to the far side of the park where Apollo, god of the sun, rests. Even the rides are well themed – I enjoyed a gentle sway on the Constellation Carousel and zipped at 62mph on Stardust Racers, a dual racing rollercoaster across 5,000ft of track, which is the park's top thrill ride for speed and height. Celestial Park interweaves the other worlds and acts as a calming decompression from the extremities of themes and music in each world. Grab a cocktail at Bar Zenith, watch the fountain show and marvel in the sheer beauty. MUST DO Visit North Star Wintry Wonders, an all-year Christmas store where it really snows outside – even under the hot Florida sun. Dark Universe The storytelling continues as you move through this spooky portal and into monstrous Darkmoor Village. It makes sense – Universal is the pioneer of horror, after all. Dr Victoria Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein's great great-granddaughter, is the proud owner of this world's central focus – Frankenstein Manor – and she has captured all the monsters but she's having some trouble with Dracula. Ride Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment as you navigate the catacombs of the manor to 'help' Victoria (you won't help – but you will scream). The ride's technology is phenomenal and the animatronics are creative masterpieces. Fear not, it's suitable for all ages. Take time to explore the details. Look out for a little girl statue of Maria (a character from the 1931 Frankenstein film, who accidentally drowns), listen to sounds from beneath the vampire well and head to the Blazing Blade Tavern for a fiery sight to behold. MUST DO Grab a bite to eat at Das Stakehouse. The theming is almost better than the food – and the food is delicious. Super Nintendo World Everything moves, spins, jumps and wobbles in Super Nintendo World. It's a gaming world for everyone – even the big kids who are young at heart. Providing one of the coolest portals (the walkway into each world), I entered via a Super Mario Warp Pipe and arrived inside Princess Peach's Castle before exiting into a world of jaw-dropping colour and musical joy. Glistening golden coins, stomping Koombas, sliding 1-Up mushrooms and snapping Piranha Plants were everywhere as I looked across to Bowser's Castle. This is where I gave Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge a go and my dismal points were made up for by the fun and laughter I had hurtling turtle shells and banana peels at my friends (virtually, of course – the race car game, where we're up against all the usual Super Mario bad guys, is played via a headset). The character meet and greets here are sweet for youngsters – Toad is a rotund delight for toddlers, Mario and Luigi are cool for pre-teens and even the too-cool-for-school teenagers won't be able to resist Donkey Kong. Don't miss the fabulous rollercoaster Minecart Madness – it's a bumpy ride but the jumps over 'missing' sections of the track are thrilling. MUST DO Buy a $45 Power-Up wristband. It's vital for playing the in-world mini games, collecting coins and banking some exclusive park stamps and badges, which connects to an app on your mobile phone and creates family friendly competition. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic This world makes the Wizarding Worlds at Universal Orlando Resort a trio – also made up of Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands Of Adventure. Step inside the magical streets of 1920s Paris, where the likes of Newt Scamander hangs out. Known as Place Cachée, this world is a fan delight, merging the magic of Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them in Paris, with the wonders of Harry Potter. I hopped on the Métro-Floo to the British Ministry Of Magic for Dolores Umbridge's trial for her crimes against magic on the mesmerising dark ride, Battle At The Ministry. Expect magical creatures and spells galore – and make time for the show, Le Cirque Arcanus. The puppetry will leave you speechless. MUST DO Try a Gigglewater in Le Gobelet Noir – a bar owned by Nicolas Flamel, the alchemist who created the Philosopher's Stone. How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk The largest of all the worlds at Epic Universe,the Viking village of Berk is breathtaking. On entry, I was faced with two 40ft carved wooden statues, guarding the village. This world is set after the second film, where there's peace and harmony between man and dragon. Look out for The Untrainable Dragon live show, which has the most beautiful score, with singers and actors akin to the talent of a West End show. And be sure to try the mac and cheese cone at Hooligan's Grog & Gruel – it's the novelty dish I never knew I needed. MUST DO Look to the skies. Here you'll find actual flying dragons – drones to us adults (don't tell the kids), but they are very realistic. HOW TO BOOK Universal Orlando Resort All Parks tickets are available through British Airways Holidays from £439 per person. British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at Universal Stella Nova Resort from £829 per person, travelling on selected dates in January 2026. Book by 9 June. For reservations visit
The Herald Scotland
21-05-2025
- The Herald Scotland
Does Glasgow face losing reputation for having best crowds at gigs?
Once upon a time it's a question you would never have thought to ask. Not if you were even halfway versed in the city's rock and roll lore. After all this is the home of the storied Apollo, the Renfield Street venue with the famous bouncing balcony, a place so loved by touring rock bands that many chose to record their live albums there. Status Quo were one. Their three-night residency in October 1976 became the double platinum-selling album Live!, regarded by some critics as one of the best of its kind ever. Two years later AC/DC's entire set was filmed as they opened their Powerage tour at the Apollo. The audio of that gig became If You Want Blood You've Got It, another iconic live album. King Crimson, Rush and Roxy Music all recorded live albums at the Apollo while punk legends The Ramones said it was their favourite venue. Like, ever. I never made it to the Apollo but I've been to gigs at King Tut's Wah Wah Hut and on Glasgow Green. I've been to Barrowland and the SECC. I've been to lots of other Glasgow venues in between, small and large, and have generally found them bouncing. I have also interviewed plenty of musicians over the years who speak warmly and honestly about the Glasgow crowds, so I have some (albeit second-hand) insight into how things look from the stage. Or how it did look, once upon a time. So why the doubts now? Could be a blip, but in a recent review of a gig at Barrowland by 1990s Britpop act Supergrass, The Herald's Gabriel McKay was none too impressed by the audience. 'The legendary Barras crowd hasn't brought its A-game,' he wrote. 'Save for some game younger fans, resplendent in Adidas tracksuits down the front, it's mostly pint-supping, head-nodding and, most egregiously of all, chatting.' Chatting? Surely not. I did encounter something similar at a Coldplay gig - many years ago – but that was in Edinburgh. Supergrass at the Barrowlands - where the crowd spent too long chatting, according to our reviewer (Image: free) In truth, I don't think this diminution in atmosphere at Glasgow gigs is a one off. If you've been to a big concert recently, I dare say you will agree. More and more heritage rock acts are pulling on the compression socks and taking to the road, so it follows that the gig-going demographic is shifting accordingly and that is going to have an effect. This week, for instance, Dinosaur Jr played Barrowland on a 30th anniversary tour. Next month it's Leftfield on their 35th anniversary tour. A week on it's The Waterboys. In August it's Nile Rodgers and Chic. In October The Boomtown Rats hit Barrowland to celebrate 50 years in, er, show-business. Factor in ticket prices which can easily hit £50 (plus booking fee, in my opinion as egregious an imposition as chatting is an offence) and you can see why the churning, roiling, free-wheeling Glasgow crowds of old might have less va-va-voom than in decades gone by. That's not to say there aren't underground venues where the sweat drips off the ceiling and the noise from the audience is thunderous. But increasingly it's the grey hairs who are turning out to populate the live music landscape in the city. What they want is nostalgia, value for money – and nobody jostling them as they film their favourite bits for their social media feeds. Or their grand-kids. Still, even if I'm right perhaps there is yet time for redress. In July Glasgow Green hosts the TRNSMT festival and at the time of writing raucous rap phenomenon Kneecap are still on the bill. That will be one to see. So go on, Glasgow – show them why maybe you do still have the best audiences in the world. Read more Numbers game It's rare – actually make that never-happened-before-in-the-history-of-audience-ratings – for the BBC to talk down the digits where viewership is concerned. Any massaging of the figures is usually aimed at inflation rather than the opposite. But following the cancellation of BBC Scotland soap River City there has been quite the kerfuffle, and the BBC finds itself having to rebut the claim by acting union Equity that half a million people regularly watch the show. Not so, says the Beeb. It's less than half that. To say otherwise is to spread 'mistruths'. Neutral observers will, you know, observe that the BBC should have the correct figures. They may also note that a figure of 500,000 does seem on the high side. EastEnders, networked to a potential domestic audience over 10 times that of River City, only pulls in around 3.2 million viewers. On the other hand, those in Team River City will claim that it suits the organisation's narrative for audience ratings to be on the slide. As union and broadcaster square up, it looks as if this one will run and run. Unlike River City. Read more And finally The Herald critics have been sharpening their pens ahead of festival season, which activity has taken theatre critic Neil Cooper to Edinburgh's Festival Theatre and Royal Lyceum Theatre as well as to Pitlochry Festival Theatre. In that last venue he watched Water Colour, the debut play by Millie Sweeney, winner of the St Andrews Playwriting Award, while in Edinburgh he saw The Lion The Witch And The Wardrobe and Keli. The first is a touring production of Sally Cookson's 2017 adaptation of the much-loved novel, first staged at Leeds Playhouse. The second is a crowd-pleasing new work by Martin Green, better known as accordionist with Scottish traditional music supergroup Lau. Meanwhile dance critic Mary Brennan continues her survey of the best that Dance International Glasgow has to offer at Tramway, while music critic Keith Bruce was in attendance at the City Halls in Glasgow to hear Nicola Benedetti perform work by Brahms and Greig at the Scottish Chamber Orchestra's season finale. Finally Teddy Jamieson tore himself away from Eurovision to see Daryl Hall at the Armadillo in Glasgow. Definitely no mosh pit at that one. Read our reviews here Review: I went to new V&A gardens show and was intrigued by what I saw
Daily Mail
11-05-2025
- Daily Mail
Fury as influencer is allowed to bring 120lb 'service dog' on flight... who's in the right?
A social media influencer has sparked fury online after bringing her massive Great Dane 'service dog' onto a commercial United Airlines flight. Pietra Luccas, 27, from San Francisco, California, was flying to Miami, Florida, in April with friends and her roughly 120-pound four-year-old Great Dane service dog, Charlie. Video footage captured the moment Luccas stepped on to the plane with visibly shocked passengers reacting as they spotted the massive dog. The clip, which Luccas shared on her Instagram account, quickly went viral - amassing more than 1 million likes and hundreds of comments. Social media users argued over whether such a large animal should be permitted on the aircraft. The towering Great Dane - which can weigh up to 175 pounds - can be seen in the video taking up the aisle of the aircraft as horrified passengers look up from their seat. 'I didn't have any difficulty getting him on board,' Luccas told Newsweek. 'I always buy three seats, but, in this case, the cabin crew wanted me to have the front seat with more leg room for Charlie.' 'There are passengers who don't like it, and I understand that. But that's why I buy the three seats for us. During the flight, Charlie is trained to be quiet. He pretty much sleeps most of the time.' She then recorded the huge pet sleeping on the floor of an entire row inside the aircraft. Despite taking precautions, the video has left users divided, with many arguing that Charlie is simply too big for the confined space of an airplane cabin. 'This should not be allowed… this is getting ridiculous,' wrote one commenter. Many users accused the Great Dane of not being a real service dog. 'No, she knows damn well that's not a service dog lol,' one wrote. Some accused Luccas, who also has an OnlyFans account, of being inconsiderate of other humans. 'She doesn't have any respect for other human beings. The dog is too big for the small seats and space in the airplane. People and children will walk by to go to the restroom and the Dog may not like it. She is just entitled and has no respect for anyone.' But others defended Luccas, with one person writing: 'I see no problem here. Dogs aren't luggage.' Another added: 'I would be so pissed if you didn't sit next to me.' 'I'd rather sit next to him than most humans,' joked another commenter. Some dog experts even raised health concerns for the giant breed. The towering Great Dane pounds - which weigh up to 175 pounds - can be seen in the video taking up the aisle of the aircraft as shocked passengers look up from their seat One experienced breeder wrote: 'I have been a breeder of Great Dane for over 20 years. And all I can see is how much pain he is in. That left hip is bad. 'You can even see the loss of muscle. Please do not make him walk, to much, run or put him on hard surfaces. Especially a plane floor. ;(' Some commenters mentioned the irony in airport security protocols. 'But I have to check in a 4 oz bottle,' wrote one user. Others raised concerns about accommodating passengers with allergies or fears of dogs. 'It definitely excludes people who have allergies, fears and/or just don't want to be in close proximity closed in with someone's dogs especially in case of emergencies,' another commenter argued.
