Find Someone Made Just For You.
Find Someone Made Just For You.
Writer/director Drew Hancock masterfully explores the intersection of technology and human relationships in Companion, weaving together futuristic themes, razor-sharp storytelling, and heart-pounding tension. As the film unfolds with exciting twists and turns, Hancock infuses well-timed humour and sci-fi elements, drawing viewers into a captivating setting as unpredictable as it is enthralling. With its crisp writing, standout performances, and tight pacing, this feature debut will leave audiences eager for more.
In Companion, a romantic lakeside getaway turns sinister when Iris (Sophie Thatcher) shockingly discovers that she’s a robot programmed to love and obey her partner, Josh (Jack Quaid). Meanwhile, Josh’s intentions are far from pure; in addition to using Iris for sex, he manipulates her for a lucrative scheme to steal millions of dollars. As the plan unravels, Iris must confront the dark reality of her existence and choose between her coded devotion and breaking free.
While AI robot horror may seem like familiar territory, Companion offers a new take, distinguishing itself as a more refined entry than recent counterparts like M3gan and Subservience. Taking a thought-provoking examination of technology’s role in relationships, power struggles, and domestic violence, the film subtly raises questions about AI’s potential benefits and risks. Hancock’s layered script elevates Companion from a simple thrill ride to one that sparks discussion.
With a small cast, the characters are well-developed and evoke strong emotions, making it easy to either love or hate them. Sophie Thatcher is the emotional core, bringing vulnerability and resilience to her character. Iris navigates intricate emotions and situations with remarkable depth, leveraging her programmed settings to outsmart those around her. Despite her soft, subdued demeanour, and her robotic Lana Del Rey-esque voice, she proves to be a fighter, reminiscent of Samara Weaving’s Grace Le Domas in Ready or Not. Decisions, like morphing her voice to operate the vehicle, and changing language settings to work around her inability to lie, are handled brilliantly. Thatcher flawlessly conveys complexity through facial expressions and her physical movements. With recent horror credits (The Boogeyman, Heretic, MaXXXine) and now Companion, she cements her rising star status, leading with dazzling charisma. Jack Quaid also showcases his range, swiftly transitioning from charming to controlling and abusive. His character’s evolution demonstrates Quaid’s ability to master complex roles. Through condescending gestures, like the “beep boop” nickname and limiting Iris’s intelligence to 40%, Quaid taps into his darker side, much like his role in Scream (2022). A subtle yet comical moment comes when he callously acknowledges Iris’s struggle to “process” his betrayal, chuckling to himself. By treating Iris as a possession, like setting her to sleep mode during the drive and not reciprocating her feelings in public, Quaid illustrates his character’s selfish nature and how he simply sees Iris as an object. Lukas Gage’s portrayal of Patrick also can’t go without mention. He has a more substantial role here than in Smile 2 and brings his A-game to every scene.
Companion incorporates some slasher ingredients and earns its R-rating, with a fair amount of blood and violence, and creative, foreshadowed weapons used in satisfying ways. Eli Born’s cinematography and Scott Kuzio’s production design merge to create a high-tech yet grounded world. An ominous score drives the narrative forward while the soundtrack features playful song choices, such as The Goo Goo Dolls’ Iris, which plays as Quaid’s “fuckbot” of the same name is delivered. Companion’s vibrant costuming, contrasting retro fashion with cutting-edge technology is a smart decision that gives the film a distinct, memorable identity. It may not reach its full scare potential and there are some minor narrative gaps, but still, Hollywood should take notice and prioritize budget-friendly, 90-minute films like this one.
Companion fires on all cylinders, loading fresh energy into the tech thriller genre with its intelligent, suspenseful approach. With a bold screenplay, clever writing, and exceptional performances from the entire ensemble, particularly Sophie Thatcher and Lukas Gage, the film takes you on a wild ride and delivers stimulating ideas. For maximum impact, go in knowing as little as possible; you’ll have a blast.
