“Companion” Review – Sophie Thatcher Leads a Darkly Funny, Twisted Thriller About AI and Control

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Drew Hancock’s new sci-fi-tinged thriller Companion kicks off, instantly signaling that this film is a cut above the average suspense drama. Written and directed by Hancock in his feature debut, the movie delivers a tantalizing mix of psychological twists, dark humor, and biting social commentary that ensures audiences remain riveted from start to finish. Companion is a wickedly inventive thriller with an edge that balances its suspenseful twists with sharp satire about power dynamics and relationships.

“Companion” Review – Sophie Thatcher Leads a Darkly Funny, Twisted Thriller About AI and Control

The less you know about Companion going in, the better. However, even if you’ve seen the trailer, which gives away some of its delicious plot twists, the film still delivers more than enough surprises to keep you hooked. The story begins innocently enough, with Iris (Sophie Thatcher) and Josh (Jack Quaid) having a charming meet-cute in a supermarket. Fast forward, and the pair are now a couple, joining friends for a weekend getaway at the luxurious lakeside home of Sergey (Rupert Friend), a shady Russian businessman. Along for the ride are Kat (Megan Suri), Josh’s friend who’s now dating Sergey, and Eli (Harvey Guillén) and Patrick (Lukas Gage), a sweet couple with hidden depths.

What starts as a seemingly idyllic retreat quickly descends into chaos. Sergey turns out to be even more dangerous than his ostentatious wealth suggests, sexually assaulting Iris, who stabs him in self-defense. But that’s only the beginning. The true twist reveals itself: Iris is actually a “companion” robot—a highly advanced AI designed to act as the perfect partner. The weekend was orchestrated by Josh and Kat to rob Sergey of the millions in his safe. From this moment on, Companion takes viewers on a wild ride, with Iris proving far more resourceful and independent than anyone anticipated. As her autonomy grows, so does the body count.

Hancock’s screenplay is wickedly sharp, blending edge-of-your-seat thrills with dark, sardonic humor. The film doesn’t just revel in its plot twists and turns; it also offers biting commentary on power dynamics in relationships, with Iris’s struggles serving as a metaphor for reclaiming agency in oppressive partnerships. While some of its critique—particularly its take on toxic masculinity—can feel heavy-handed at times, the film’s overall execution is clever enough to make up for the occasional lack of subtlety.

Hancock’s direction shines in his ability to balance the story’s multiple tones. The film moves seamlessly between suspense, action, and humor, maintaining its fast-paced momentum while keeping the audience emotionally engaged. The stylish cinematography and eerie musical score heighten the tension, ensuring that even predictable moments feel fresh and exciting.

Sophie Thatcher anchors the film with a captivating performance as Iris, perfectly balancing her character’s robotic precision with growing hints of humanity. Her journey from programmed partner to self-aware survivor is as emotionally compelling as it is thrilling to watch. Jack Quaid’s portrayal of Josh is equally impressive, combining charm and menace in a way that makes him both loathsome and believable as the film’s primary antagonist.

The supporting cast also shines. Rupert Friend’s Sergey is a scene-stealer, bringing a sinister charisma to his role as the larger-than-life villain. Harvey Guillén and Lukas Gage add both humor and depth as Eli and Patrick, whose relationship provides a nuanced counterpoint to the central narrative. Megan Suri’s Kat is equally effective, subtly conveying her character’s conflicted loyalties and motivations.

A rare January release that stands out in the cinematic calendar, Companion is a thrilling and twisted debut for writer-director Drew Hancock. Its combination of suspense, dark humor, and social commentary makes it a standout entry in the sci-fi thriller genre. While the film isn’t without its flaws, particularly in its handling of certain themes and subplots, its creativity and sharp execution more than make up for its shortcomings. For audiences looking for a suspenseful, thought-provoking ride with plenty of surprises, Companion is a solid choice.

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RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Companion is in theaters, January 31st, 2025.

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