A24 has once again pushed the boundaries of film promotion with a unique night vision Q&A session for its latest black comedy, Friendship. This unconventional approach features stars Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd, alongside director Andrew DeYoung and actor Eric Rahill, engaging in candid discussions about male friendship—all captured in total darkness.
The Q&A, aptly titled “Men Talking in the Dark,” was showcased during early access screenings of Friendship at select theaters, including AMC Theatres and Alamo Drafthouse. This creative format underscores the film’s exploration of the complexities and awkwardness often associated with male relationships.
In the film, suburban dad Craig (Tim Robinson) becomes infatuated with his charismatic new neighbor (Paul Rudd), leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events as Craig’s attempts at forming an adult male friendship spiral out of control. The night vision Q&A complements this narrative by delving into the characters’ dynamics and the actors’ perspectives on portraying such intricate relationships.
Topics covered include: IMDB STARmeter rankings, showing up to the tavern with your boys, and the erotic possibilities of the Nintendo DS.
A24’s decision to film the Q&A in complete darkness not only adds a layer of humor but also serves as a metaphor for the often unspoken emotions in male friendships. As the participants converse without the visual cues of body language, the focus shifts entirely to their words, highlighting the vulnerability and sincerity in their discussions.
The night vision Q&A has garnered attention on social media platforms, with clips shared on TikTok and Instagram, further amplifying the film’s reach and resonance with audiences.
Friendship had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2024, as part of the festival’s Midnight Madness program. Following its limited release on May 9, 2025, the film expanded to a wider audience on May 23, receiving praise for its sharp writing, direction, and performances.
