A weekend getaway turns bloody and violent when a subservient android that's built for human companionship goes haywire.
Director: Drew Hancock
Cast: Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, Lukas Gage, Megan Suri, Harvey Guillén, Rupert Friend
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Rated R for strong violence, sexual content, and language throughout.
Runtime: 1h 37m
Review:
Companion is a fun, dark dramady that puts a techno twist on the lifecycle of an abusive relationship led by a stellar turn from Sophie Thatcher. Sleekly shot and well-paced, the film quickly lays out the set up and players before moving into the meat of the action. Drew Hancock's debut feature shows off an ability to turn on a dime from tense to darkly funny. It gives the entire film a breezy feel even as the body count continue to increase. Through it all he never loses focus on Sophie Thatcher's Iris and her "awaking" as the human collection of dullards attempt to complete their master plan. There aren't many surprises to be had since the story plays out like you'd expect but that doesn't detract much since the cast is strong across the board. Sophie Thatcher leads the entire thing by naturally cycling through a wide range of emotions as the film goes on. She's got the kind of screen presence that makes it easy to root for her character as she tries to break free on multiple levels. Jack Quaid is a fun counterpart since he's able to project his goofy energy along with incel infused anger as he slowly loses control. Thatcher and Quaid have solid chemistry together that gives their scenes together a sort of rom-com vibe before things turn more twisted. Harvey Guillén brings his fun and likable persona to his supporting role with his onscreen partner Lukas Gage making for a fun counter point to Quaid and Thatcher's relationship. Rupert Friend is clearly having a blast, hamming it up as Megan Suri's well-off Russian boyfriend which is a shame since he's got the least screentime of the ensemble. It all adds up to making Companion the perfect anti Rom-Com for those that like their love stories with a bit more blood and viscera.
B+
