What’s white and black and red all over? The answer, in this case, is Naomi Watts and her 145-pound co-star, Bing, a Great Dane, taking a dog walk on the crimson carpet for the New York premiere of “The Friend.” This heartwarming and stylish event captured the attention of both fashion enthusiasts and cinephiles alike, blending the worlds of cinema and high fashion in a way that few events can.

Directed by Scott McGehee and adapted from Sigrid Nunez’s 2018 novel of the same name, “The Friend” is set to release in US theaters on March 28 and in the UK on April 25. The film follows the story of Iris, a solitary writer and teacher whose life is dramatically altered when a close friend bequeaths his giant pet dog to her following his death. It’s a tale of companionship, loss, and the unexpected bonds that can form between humans and animals.

On the evening of the premiere, the “Mulholland Drive” actress and her canine co-star, Bing, stole the show. Both seemed to be cut from the same cloth, not just in temperament but also in their matching black polka dots. Watts was dressed in a white gown with fur-tufted spots that bore a striking resemblance to Bing’s own coat. The dress, titled the “Domino” and designed by Jacquemus, debuted during the Spring-Summer 2025 Paris couture shows in January. It was a perfect blend of elegance and offbeat style, featuring a high-cowl neck, open-back, and an asymmetrical waistline that mimicked a French tuck. The skirt was adorned with furry black polka dots, which, up close, were unnervingly reminiscent of body hair. From a distance, however, they gave the impression of soft-edged dabs of watercolor bleeding downstream.

The look was styled by Jeanann Williams, who has also worked with “The White Lotus” star Leslie Bibb. Williams’ decision to coordinate Watts with Bing was a fresh take on method dressing, a thematic styling trend that has dominated celebrity red carpets since Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” in 2023. This trend, which connects actors to their on-screen characters through their clothing, has become somewhat of a staple in recent years. However, some observers have noted that the trend has reached a point of saturation, particularly during the 7-month-long “Wicked” press tour, where Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were often seen in the colors green and pink, respectively.

Despite the potential for overuse, the method dressing trend continues to captivate audiences, and the “The Friend” premiere was no exception. The sight of Watts and Bing, perfectly coordinated and clearly enjoying each other’s company, was a heartwarming and visually stunning moment. The pair was captured in numerous photos, engaging in paw-shakes, puppy kisses, and head scratches, creating a genuine and endearing connection that transcended the typical red carpet experience.

While celebrity canines have had their moments in the limelight before, few have made as strong a fashion statement as Bing. In recent memory, Messi, the border collie from Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall,” performed tricks on the Cannes red carpet last year, delighting audiences with his agility and charm. Demi Moore’s chihuahua, Pilaf, is also a frequent companion at film screenings and award ceremonies, often perched elegantly on her arm. However, the presence of such a large dog at a film premiere is relatively rare. One of the last notable instances was Chris, the 200-pound St. Bernard and star of the ‘90s film franchise “Beethoven.” But there is no doubt that the Great Dane, with its majestic presence and undeniable charm, is the most fashion-forward of them all.

The choice of a Great Dane for the film is particularly noteworthy. Great Danes are known for their gentle nature, loyalty, and striking appearance, making them the perfect companions for both the character of Iris and the actress Naomi Watts. The breed’s large size and regal demeanor add a layer of depth to the film’s narrative, highlighting the transformative power of companionship and the unexpected ways in which it can enrich our lives.

In the world of fashion, imitation is often considered the highest form of flattery, and Bing’s presence on the red carpet was no exception. His polka-dot coat, mirrored in Watts’ gown, created a visual harmony that was both playful and sophisticated. The choice of attire not only highlighted the bond between the actress and her co-star but also underscored the film’s themes of connection and transformation.

As the film’s release approaches, the buzz surrounding “The Friend” is growing. The unique premise, combined with the stellar performances of its cast and the charming presence of Bing, promises to make it a standout film. The red carpet premiere was just the beginning, a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Iris and her unexpected companion.

The New York premiere of “The Friend” was a celebration of both cinematic and sartorial excellence. Naomi Watts and Bing’s coordinated appearance on the crimson carpet was a delightful and memorable moment, showcasing the power of thematic styling and the unique bond between humans and animals. As the film prepares to hit theaters, audiences can look forward to a touching and visually stunning story that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.