Companion (2025) - Film Review

      **Companion, 2025.**

      **Written and Directed by Drew Hancock.**

      **Starring:** Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, Lukas Gage, Megan Suri, Harvey Guillén, Rupert Friend, Jaboukie Young-White, Marc Menchaca, and Woody Fu.

      **SYNOPSIS:**

      Invited for a weekend getaway at her new boyfriend's lakeside estate, Iris discovers a dark secret.

      While *Companion* marks Drew Hancock's debut as a co-writer and director, it benefits from the producing influence of Zach Cregger, known for *Barbarian*, who had considered this as his follow-up project. Beyond this tidbit, it's important to note that the film weaves together various subgenres, effectively integrating its elements through strong character development.

      Unlike the jarring shift seen in the first act of Cregger’s initial endeavor, these films possess a similar essence; however, Hancock uniquely dissects the psychological underpinnings of men's troubling behaviors, framing it as a cautionary tale regarding a bleak future concerning technology and interpersonal relationships. There's also a subplot involving the downfall of a dubious billionaire.

      This review avoids spoilers and does not touch upon the first significant plot revelation that the trailer confusingly disclosed; there's enough intriguing content to craft a captivating trailer without revealing much, which is a misstep by the marketing team. What can be noted is that Sophie Thatcher's Iris (remarkable in the faith-driven horror drama *Heretic*, released late last year) is in love with Jack Quaid's Josh, appearing as a docile and accommodating partner. Even though Iris seems mostly content with Josh, recalling their quirky first meeting in a supermarket, there’s an immediate sense that something is off in their relationship and how she is completely devoted to fulfilling his needs. Conversely, Josh exudes a misleading charm, presenting himself as a "nice guy" despite not always having favorable circumstances.

      Josh has organized a vacation to a remote, lavish home owned by a billionaire friend, assuring Iris that everyone there is fond of her, even though she insists she has never sensed that sentiment. Iris' instincts prove correct when their visit takes a dark turn; during a moment of isolation, the wealthy Sergey (Rupert Friend) attempts to sexually assault her, an incident that triggers a series of complications. Instead of showing concern or disgust over the attempted abuse by one of their friends, the guests—including a gay couple played by Harvey Guillén and Lukas Gage, whose relationship mirrors that of Josh and Iris but with a hint of genuine affection, and Sergey’s irritated wife Kat portrayed by Megan Suri—are more shocked by Iris’ self-defense. There are also other sinister happenings at the estate that she’s not supposed to uncover, which could complicate matters further.

      Focusing on a specific trendy subgenre with greater detail and creativity than most, *Companion* intelligently spirals into a cat-and-mouse dynamic, poised to erupt in violence at any moment. At its core, it explores themes of control, illustrating the contrasts in the relationships, how Josh manipulates individuals of varying genders, and how he weaponizes trust and affection. These elements enable Sophie Thatcher to deliver a compelling portrayal of evolving identities, resourcefulness, and conflicted emotions toward Josh.

      As Iris disrupts Josh's malicious schemes, his anger surges, becoming reckless and increasingly monstrous in response to a partner who is no longer under his influence. Jack Quaid delivers a cunning and chilling performance, showcasing a ruthless side. The supporting characters, though entertainingly performed or shockingly violent, primarily serve the narrative and its central themes. Arguably, a similar claim could be made about Josh and Iris, as *Companion* is less focused on exploring its themes and messages and more about depicting a situation spiraling out of control as a result of them.

      While there are intriguing insights into contemporary (and likely future) relationships, *Companion* leans towards reveling in a twisty narrative, cleverly veering off course while highlighting these points. It succeeds in this regard, with Sophie Thatcher emerging as a talent to watch. It may seem unusual to suggest that Zach Cregger already has a protégé, but it is likely he approves of Drew Hancock’s achievements with this film.

      **Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★**

      Robert Kojder is affiliated with the Chicago Film Critics Association, Critics Choice Association, and Online Film Critics Society. He also serves as the Reviews Editor for Flickering Myth. Check here for new reviews and follow my BlueSky or Letterboxd.