Is Friend Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Friend is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 83 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Friend Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1988, Friend enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Looking for the money for a drink, an alcoholic gets a Newfoundland dog as a present from a stranger at a bird fair. Under the direction of Leonid Kvinikhidze, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Sergey Shakurov. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Friend offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Friend resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Friend is available for streaming on Okko. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Friend centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Looking for the money for a drink, an alcoholic gets a Newfoundland dog as a present from a stranger at a bird fair. He'll soon find out that the animal is not only able to speak, but to get him to give up drinking as well. Now he's determined to get rid of the dog, but that won't be an easy task. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1988 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Friend has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Friend sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Friend (1988): with an audience rating of 5.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Friend Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
OkkoParents Guide & Age Rating
Friend has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.4/10, and global collection metrics, Friend stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1988 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Friend movie hit or flop?
Friend has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Friend worth watching?
Friend is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Friend online?
Friend is currently available for streaming on Okko. You can also check for it on platforms like Okko depending on your region.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Friend movie hit or flop?
Friend has received mixed reviews with a 5.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Friend worth watching?
Friend is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Friend online?
Friend is currently available for streaming on Okko. You can also check for it on platforms like Okko depending on your region.
What is the story of Friend?
Friend is a Drama movie that follows: Looking for the money for a drink, an alcoholic gets a Newfoundland dog as a present from a stranger at a bird fair. He'll soon find out that the animal is not only able to speak, but to get him to gi...
Is Friend family friendly?
Friend is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Friend available in?
Friend is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Looking for the money for a drink, an alcoholic gets a Newfoundland dog as a present from a stranger at a bird fair. He'll soon find out that the animal is not only able to speak, but to get him to give up drinking as well. Now he's determined to get rid of the dog, but that won't be an easy task.
Critic Reviews
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