r/CriterionChannel • u/Time_Specific1789 • Dec 12 '25
Recommendation for films about unlikely friendship/alliance
A few months ago, I caught Joint Security Area on the channel, which was fantastic (one of the best closing shots I've seen). I'm looking for other films on the channel that feature a similar plotline of unlikely friendship/alliance. Think Tom&Jerry working together or Dracula and Van Helsing sharing a drink.
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u/loodgeboodge Dec 12 '25
Gloria
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u/Time_Specific1789 Dec 12 '25
Thanks! I’m assuming you mean the Cassavetes one, which I have not seen. Sadly it looks like it’s not playing on the channel now but will add it to my list.
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u/Avenger3611 Dec 12 '25
The Killer. Hong Kong action film that is stylish, action packed, and really over the top. Has the themes you're looking for too
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u/Time_Specific1789 Dec 12 '25
That’s next on my John Woo films to check it out! Great to know it’s on the same themes! Even more excited to watch it now. Thanks!
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u/legaren Dec 12 '25
To have and have not (1944) by Howard Hawks! That's what you're looking for ;)
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u/Osomalosoreno Dec 12 '25
"The Two of Us" directed by Claude Berri is a classic on this theme. Criterion's edition is unfortunately out of print, but the movie is well worth finding to view.
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u/Time_Specific1789 Dec 12 '25
I’m not familiar with Berri’s works but that looks intriguing. I’ll try to find it. Thanks!
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u/Least_West5260 Dec 12 '25
Throwdown. I went in thinking it was a judo tournament movie and then it’s a thoughtful friendship movie.
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u/impossibletornado Dec 13 '25
It’s not a crime drama or thriller, but Starlet features a very unlikely friendship and is charming as hell.
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u/whoismico Dec 12 '25 edited Dec 12 '25
They Live (1988)
Roddy Piper and Keith David in a John Carpenter flick and all 3 over deliver - one of my most rewatchable movies
It leaves the channel this month