Bleecker Street has acquired North American distribution rights to 'The Friend,' a drama directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, which stars Naomi Watts and Bill Murray, along with a Great Dane named Bing. The film, adapted from Sigrid Nunez’s National Book Award-winning novel, follows writer Iris (Watts) as she navigates grief after her mentor (Murray) dies and leaves her his dog. 'The Friend' premiered to acclaim at the Telluride Film Festival and has a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, highlighting its emotional storytelling and performances. Bleecker Street plans an early 2025 theatrical release, marking its second collaboration with McGehee and Siegel after 'Montana Story.' CEO Andrew Karpen described the film as a quintessential New York story that honors friendship and the comfort provided by animals. The ensemble cast also includes Sarah Pidgeon, Carla Gugino, Constance Wu, Noma Dumezweni, and Ann Dowd.