The Friend

In the end, Iris successfully finds a way to keep Apollo with her by certifying him as her service dog, which legally allows him to stay in her apartment despite the building’s no-pet policy. This decision is morally complex, as her initial intention was just to care for her friend’s dog temporarily, but her bond with Apollo grows stronger over time. Iris’s determination to keep Apollo close highlights her need for companionship and her process of healing from Walter’s death, with Apollo becoming a symbol of comfort and connection.

As Apollo ages and faces health issues, Iris’s love for him deepens, and she takes steps to ensure his comfort in his final days. She moves to a seaside house, where they can enjoy peaceful moments together, and she prepares herself emotionally for the inevitable loss. When she finds Apollo lying still at the beach, her heart sinks, fearing the worst, but he responds to her call and gets up, reminding her—and us—that their time together isn’t over yet. The movie concludes on a bittersweet but hopeful note, emphasizing that, despite the pain of losing loved ones, the bond they share can bring immense meaning and comfort, and their story doesn’t necessarily have to end with loss. Instead, it leaves us with the idea that love and connection continue beyond death, and that true companionship can leave a lasting imprint on our hearts.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 09:03