Our Friend

Based on a true story, Nicole and Dane both were involved in musical theater in New Orleans around 2000, she as a singer/actress and he as a cameraman. Nicole eventually introduces Dane to her husband Matt who is a struggling journalist. Matt gets a break from a New York Times writer and transitions into a war correspondent. This takes him overseas for long periods of time that grate on Nicole. At one point, about 10 years later, she has a brief affair. When Matt finds out about it, he is furious. Dane, who has been working dead-end jobs in New Orleans but stayed in touch with them, comes to their home in Fairport, Alabama to help them work through the issue. Things take a massive turn for the worse in 2012. Nicole is diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She tries to keep up a brave face. As her energy begins to dwindle, it becomes difficult for Matt to hold the family together. Dane offers to come and stay with them to help out with their two daughters, Molly and Evie. He only plans to stay for a couple of weeks, but it becomes clear that his help is needed even more with each passing day. His generosity costs him his job in New Orleans and the girlfriend with whom he was just becoming serious. Finally, as Nicole's demise approaches, he is crucial to keeping the house operational. A hospice worker is called, and Nicole passes with Matt and Dane to either side. Afterwards, Matt embraces Dane saying "Thank you is not enough." He writes an award-winning article about Dane's selfless contribution to the good of their family