‘Our Friend’: Dakota Johnson Shines in a Heartbreaking True Story

Dakota Johnson is widely recognized for her acting prowess, yet her most talked-about roles often overshadow her finest work. Rising to fame with ‘50 Shades of Grey’ and recently gaining attention for her detached press tour for ‘Madame Web,’ Johnson’s career includes standout performances in lesser-known titles like Luca Guadgningo’s ‘A Bigger Splash’ and the intense remake of the Giallo classic ‘Suspiria.’ While these roles showcase her potential as both an art house queen and mainstream star, it’s her performance in the based-on-a-true-story drama ‘Our Friend’ that truly shines.

‘Our Friend’ delves into the popular “cancer dramedy” genre, which blends poignant storytelling with themes of familial dysfunction. Adapted from Matthew Teague’s Esquire article ‘The Friend: Love Is Not a Big Enough Word,’ the film explores the profound impact of a cancer diagnosis on a couple and their closest friend.

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Johnson portrays Nicole, a vibrant theatre performer whose life takes a tragic turn with ovarian cancer. Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite uses flashbacks to highlight Nicole’s decline, from her energetic past to her heartbreaking battle with illness.

Johnson’s portrayal captures Nicole’s emotional journey with sensitivity and depth. She navigates Nicole’s struggles with chemotherapy and the complexities of her relationships, particularly with her husband Matt (Casey Affleck) and their supportive friend Dane (Jason Segel). Johnson brings authenticity to Nicole’s character, balancing moments of resilience with poignant vulnerability.

Despite its touching narrative and stellar performances, ‘Our Friend’ didn’t achieve the breakout success it deserved. Johnson’s role in this heartfelt drama stands out among her filmography, showcasing her ability to immerse herself in challenging and emotionally resonant roles beyond mainstream hits like ‘50 Shades.’ 

For cinephiles looking beyond her more widely known projects, Johnson’s work in ‘Our Friend’ is a testament to her versatility and talent in portraying compelling characters on screen.

–Farheen Ali