Companion is a gripping sci-fi thriller that explores the complexities of artificial intelligence and human relationships. At its core, the film follows Josh (Jack Quaid), who brings his seemingly perfect girlfriend, Iris (Sophie Thatcher), on a weekend retreat with friends. What starts as a tense relationship drama soon spirals into something far more unsettling, raising deep questions about control, autonomy, and the ethics of AI companionship.
Sophie Thatcher delivers a standout performance, portraying Iris with an eerie balance of warmth and detachment. Her gradual shift from obedient partner to something more self-aware is haunting to watch. Jack Quaid also impresses as Josh, whose moral compass becomes increasingly murky as the story unfolds. Their dynamic is the heart of the film, pulling the audience into an intense psychological battle.
Director Drew Hancock crafts a sleek, atmospheric world that mirrors the film’s themes of technology and intimacy. The cinematography contrasts the idyllic retreat setting with moments of claustrophobic tension, heightening the sense of unease. The screenplay balances suspense, dark humor, and ethical dilemmas, making for an engaging and thought-provoking experience.
However, Companion makes one crucial mistake: it reveals too much in its marketing. The trailers and posters openly state that Iris is an AI, robbing the film of its most shocking twist. If the audience had gone in blind, believing it to be a tense relationship drama before the reveal hit, the impact would have been immense. Instead, the film spends much of its runtime catching up to what viewers already know, weakening what could have been a jaw-dropping moment.
Despite this, Companion remains a well-crafted and gripping thriller. Had the marketing been more restrained, this could have been an easy 5/5. It’s a strong 4 out of 5—a smart, unsettling film that still delivers, even if it gives away its best secret too soon.
OUR RATING:
4/5
