A new family moved into the neighborhood where Craig Waterman (Tim Robinson) and his wife Tami (Kate Mara) live with their teenage son, Steven (Jack Dylan Grazer). They have had a rather difficult time as of late, with Tami’s recent cancer is now in remission. Things seem a bit strained between the couple, and it shows also through Steven’s words and actions toward his mother and much less so with Craig. A package delivered in error to the Waterman’s house prompts contact between the two households that sets things in motion for a friendly encounter to the complete opposite – downhill and fast.
Craig thinks about himself, always, both at work and home, so the audience views one example in a therapy session. It goes from bad to worse. When Craig speaks to the new neighbor, local weatherman Austin Carmichael (Paul Rudd), what goes from discussing the package, being neighborly/social, is soon seen to not be what it appears at first. Maybe this story could have an alternate title, the clash of the narcissists.
At first the story seems to be a cool comedy about friendship, but not for long before it becomes a dark and uncomfortable comedy. The first taste of things going south is when Austin invites Craig to his home to meet his immediate friends. Craig is not at the same level of friendship, and the experience will appear quite painful for some viewers. The character is well portrayed by Robinson and can really rub people the wrong way. If you don’t like this character, it might be hard to forget this person is just an actor, not the abrasive character Craig.
Craig really needs help, and you will see why I say this after you see the full set of emotions on display, especially the insecurity and anger.
The film opens in theaters on May 16, 2025.
Source: A24
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