The Friendship Paradox

Discovering The True Essence of Adult Friendships

The Friendship Paradox Turns One!

It’s hard to believe that it’s been a whole year since The Friendship Paradox first made its debut—and what a journey it has been!

What began as a raw and reflective passion project has evolved into a global conversation about the depth, beauty, and complexity of adult friendship. This film touched hearts, sparked healing, and opened doors to deeper connection—and we’re just getting started.

To celebrate the 1-year anniversary, we’re inviting you to a very special virtual screening sponsored by The New Folklore Theater Company, taking place in their immersive virtual theater space:

🗓 November 28, 2025
🕓 4 PM Eastern Time
💜 Suggested donation: $20

*Note: you may bypass the donation to claim your ticket free. 

This screening will feature remastered audio and, based on your feedback, we’ve added a thoughtfully placed intermission so you can reflect, breathe, and fully experience the emotional depth of the film.

🌍 The Film Goes Global – No Sign-Up Required!

Following the special screening, the remastered version of The Friendship Paradox will be released globally on YouTube, available for everyone to watch, anytime, anywhere—without signup.

We believe the message of this film is universal, and we want to remove every barrier possible so it can reach those who need it most.

What does Friendship mean to you?

The Friendship Paradox is a powerful and deeply personal exploration of one of life’s most meaningful yet often misunderstood connections. Through the voices of 26 individuals from all walks of life, this film examines the beauty, challenges, and paradoxes of friendship—from childhood to adulthood, from joy to heartbreak, and from self-discovery to profound connection.

This is not just a film. It’s an invitation to reflect on your own friendships, to ask meaningful questions, and to embrace the sacred connections that have the potential to transform lives.

Discover the true essence of adult friendships. Watch the trailer below and experience a story that will move, challenge, and inspire you.

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What People Are Saying

Rhonda Elliott
What a wonderful deep dive into what friendship is this would make a great watch for book clubs and start some in-depth discussion about friendship and how important it is in our lives. Thank you for this mega project.
Anonymous
I support such heartfelt content. This is the type of content that is worth spending time to watch. It’s authentic. Educational. Eye-opening. Transformational. Thanks to all who participated and for the producer of this heartwarming film.
Kevin
BAWLING IN MY DRESSING ROOM BETWEEN SHOWS.
Anonymous
This is nothing short of a masterpiece.
Anonymous
You’ve shown that you don’t need fancy production to make something meaningful.
Anonymous
What a powerful, beautiful film! I am so grateful right now for the insight, love and self reflection this brought to light. Love you Jessica and I just have not enough words. Thank you to everyone in the film. I related with so many of you and learned a lot.
Brittany
The personal stories, raw emotions, and heartfelt reflections weave a narrative that is both deeply relatable and profoundly moving! Everyone needs to see this!
Brett Gordon
Much love to Jessica for taking her passion for people and creating a unique, heartfelt and authentic approach to illustrating Friendship to the world. Jessica brought 26 individuals, souls and perspectives together to draw out the meanings and impacts of friendship and let the world know that friendship takes many different forms and is processed in many different ways. We are all individuals yet there are many commonalities. Thanks to everyone in this film for being genuine and open. Special thanks to Jessica for pouring out her heart and soul to create this amazing look into people and the meaning of friendship.
Trista Polo
Ah-mazing. What a beautiful journey into my own reflections about friendship. So much access to new perspectives and uncovered perspectives from everything shared during each interview. Pages of takeaways. <3
Teresa W.
I'm still reeling from the profound impact of The Friendship Paradox by Jessica Dugas. Woot woot! This masterpiece is a testament to Jessica's creative genius! With heart-wrenching vulnerability, the interviewees share their stories, inviting viewers to reflect on their own friendships. I was particularly moved by Jessica's thoughtful segment introductions, which gently nudged me to confront my own answers to these soul-searching questions. This film is a powerful exploration of hope, self-awareness, and empathy, leaving me with tears of compassion and a deeper understanding of myself and others. Bravo, Jessica. Bravo.

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Watch The Friendship Paradox Today:

The newly remastered anniversary edition of The Friendship Paradox will be released on November 30th, 2025 at 12:00 AM Midnight Eastern Time! Stay tuned!

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Your Support Can Help Transform Connections

The Friendship Paradox was born from a place of passion and purpose. This project was completely self-funded—created without sponsors, driven by the belief that its message matters.

Our dream is for this film to reach as many people as possible. But we don’t want cost to be a barrier. That’s why we’re offering the film for free, while inviting those who are moved by its message to contribute.

Your contribution helps us:

  • Expand the reach of The Friendship Paradox to inspire more lives.
  • Support the creation of The Friendship Paradox: A Series Exploring The Depths of Friendship, a dream series to come.

How You Can Help:

  • $11: A single contribution to support the film.
  • $22: A contribution for yourself + a “pay it forward” gift to allow someone else to experience the film at no cost.
  • Choose Your Amount: A contribution of any size that feels meaningful to you.
  • No Contribution Today: Simply watch the film and share it with others.

Every dollar makes a difference. Whether you give or simply watch, thank you for being part of this journey to redefine friendship and connection.

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Cast & Crew

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Complementary Bonuses

Download Your Film Companion Guide

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Leave A Review!

What did you think of The Friendship Paradox? Leave your review of the film here!

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