The month of January has been notorious for producing some pretty subpar films; however, sometimes a diamond in the rough comes along. That diamond for 2025 is Drew Hancock’s “Companion.”
The movie follows a weekend getaway that unravels into chaos after an android built for human companionship turns violent. This concept feels truly original compared to the typical “robots taking over mankind” trope, making it an especially engaging watch.
The first thing to be acknowledged when it comes to the high quality of “Companion” is its filmmakers. Not only does Hancock knock his first feature film writing and directing job out of the park, but the movie is also produced by “Barbarian” director Zach Cregger.
Cregger’s presence is felt throughout. Similar to “Barbarian,” this story is unafraid to take sharp pivots that make for shocking moments. That unpredictability really is the best part, as there’s a freshness to being unable to know what’s coming in a world of cookie-cutter thriller films.
The dry and cynical comedy also heightens the experience, being a nice seasoning on an already strong meal. There’s an oblivious and sometimes deadpan bluntness to how a robot reacts to certain situations, making the dramatic irony a very entertaining watch.
If the writing is the main highlight of the movie, then the cast is a close second.
Led by Sophie Thatcher’s character, Iris, and Jack Quaid’s Josh, both elevate the film to another level. Thatcher brilliantly conveys the world-shattering feeling of finding out she’s not human, while Quaid shows off his range by going from a seemingly innocent boyfriend early in the film to a cold-hearted criminal later on. It’s not just those two who are great, however, as Lukas Gage and Harvey Guillén both turn in charming and emotional performances, stealing almost every scene they’re in.
While the movie can never quite reach the heights of its initial twist, the third act does a great job of giving a satisfying finish to the story.
The brutality and gruesomeness dial is turned up all the way, and although it leads to a predictable ending, how it was achieved was still riveting to watch.
“Companion” isn’t very subtle with its messaging, sending a warning that women must not let themselves be controlled by men in a relationship. That theme is hammered home emphatically and consistently throughout, and despite being blunt — Iris verbatim tells Josh “I’m done letting you control me” — it’s done in a way that will likely work for most people.
Overall, “Companion” was a breath of fresh air in the month of January. It’s original, clever in its storytelling, and filled with enthralling moments and captivating performances, therefore making it one of if not the best film that a young 2025 has to offer thus far.
