User reviews

$10M, 90 minute movie with good writing that is well acted. Loved it! Would happily take 20 of these over one Kraven or the 45th Indiana Jones movie, etc. Thanks New Line!

Everyone who made this movie did their job well. Great script with plenty of turns and some laughs. Casting did a great job, with Eli and Patrick in particular getting great performances. Movie was shot and directed well, edited well with some pretty minor effects that were done well. All in all just a well rounded, great effort that I hope audiences turn out for because this is the kind of movie studios should be making imo.

I understand it's ironic for me to be writing a review that says avoid reviews, but there aren't any spoilers in this one. Just try to go in blind and you'll have a better experience. Companion was a great ride. I have a soft spot for dark, R-rated comedies, so keep that in mind. This is definitely a dark comedy, with plenty of unexpected violence.

Sophie Thatcher does a fantastic job, in fact I respected all the actors in this one. They made the most of their characters and it was hard to love, hate, or even figure out who to root for until the movie neared its conclusion. That unpredictability made it a fun ride.

I highly recommend checking this one out if you enjoy violent, dark comedies. For me, it was much more enjoyable going in without reading reviews or knowing anything beyond the fact that it's a dark comedy. I hope you have the same experience.

The premise of Companion isn't anything new however its execution is both charming and disturbing. It's also one of those movies where the less you know about it the better.

Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid are perfect in their respective roles. There's a lot of clever dialogue that elevates everyone's performance, gradually raising the tension at a great pace. Companion is a thriller more than it is horror movie but it goes to dark places while balancing humor to amazing effect.

The decision to contrast retro-style outfits with the modern-futuristic style of the technology and setting was a brilliant one. Costuming in general gets overlooked by many people but here it helps give Companion its own identity that fits the tone of the movie perfectly.

Companion utilizes its R-rating well too. There's a great balance of blood and violence mixed in with underlying themes of control, relationship dynamics, moral implications regarding technology, and much more. If you're looking for a dark comedy with a few surprises up its sleeve, you'll definitely want to check out Companion.

Basically a Black Mirror episode, but in a standalone format.

I went into it without watching any trailers, which I think made the experience even more enjoyable and surprising.

The pacing and duration were okay: fast enough to keep things engaging, but short enough to avoid unnecessary scenes or fillers. It wasn't slow or drawn-out, which I really appreciated.

Sophie Thatcher's portrayal of the main character stood out to me. I think she was a good choice for this role.

The main idea of the movie is not very original, but, overall, I would recommend it as an easy weekend movie (not bad, not great either)

Imagine a modern twist on The Stepford Wives. If you've seen the trailer, you'll have a pretty good idea of where this is going, because the trailer reveals too much, why do they keep doing this?!

The film was entertaining and had its moments. There were a few laughs and a good dose of gore to keep things interesting. Sophie Thatcher definitely stole the show with her performance, making it worth the watch.

The movie delivers what it promises without any pretentious fluff, but it doesn't really break any new ground. It's a fun ride if you're in the mood for something light and gory, but don't expect any major surprises. Overall, it's an enjoyable film, but don't go in with sky-high expectations.

PS. I was completely convinced right until the credits rolled that Orlando Bloom was in this, but no, it was his doppelganger, Rupert Friend.

Not knowing anything about this before viewing thought it might be a tame rom-com or something. Oh how wrong I was!

There are a number of twists within the movie that are unexpected (or are they?) to the point I do want to watch it again to see if the signs were there. The characters are likeable and very unlikeable throughout. There are some very funny moments where the cinema audience all laughed and the plot, all be it ridiculous, is enjoyable and you can imagine it happening in the not so near future.

There are definite Black Mirror elements and this only adds to the fluid story line. It's a really interesting take on the future and above all a whole lot of fun.

Great film!

The marketing shouldn't have revealed the big first act twist however, Companion is still twisty enough to not be derailed by that and it's unpredictable nature also makes it worthy of Barbarian director Zach Cregger's heavily marketed producing credit. It's a great thriller about the worst tendencies of the worst kinds of men and their ideal controlling relationship, eschewing subtlety to bluntly state and show its themes for a bloody good time.

Sophie Thatcher is fantastic in what should be a star making performance. She's done strong work in a couple of horror films recently but this is on a whole other level since so much more is required of her and she does it all flawlessly. Jack Quaid cements that he's as good at playing nice guys who really aren't as he is playing loveable characters like Hughie from The Boys. Just like his performance in Scream, he knows exactly how to portray a pathetic character effectively.

In an impressive debut, writer & director Drew Hancock keeps the film on its toes without breaking the momentum it gains very quickly with perfectly timed humour whilst drip feeding information about the larger world at play. Eli Born's cinematography stands out by drawing attention to the most important items that end up being used in highly satisfying ways and the soundtrack utilises very knowing song choices throughout.

Sophie Thatcher was born for this role, masterfully balancing vulnerability and cruelty in a truly distinctive way. She's the new face of modern-day horror.

As soon as the credits roll, the thought-provoking social critique will leave you contemplating what society is turning into. Avoid the trailers at all costs, this is best experienced with no prior knowledge.

It's reflective on the way specific individuals are and who will turn out to be when certain outcomes occur. The concept, fast-pace, sharp comedy, and extreme bloodshed all add in together for a very fun and unexpected time at the cinema.

In other times, the premise of Companion could be classified as a science fiction film. Now that AI is among us and its use is common, it can be said that Companion is a film of anticipation.

For several decades, the link between machines and humanity has been raised. From Blade Runner to Terminator. Companion raises the question of whether machines equipped with artificial intelligence can develop self-awareness, feel deep emotions and generate a sense of identity on their own.

In times when it is easier to find casual sex than true love, this film raises something that is already happening in Japan: custom-made girlfriends to satisfy all the needs of the buyer.

A very well-structured, intelligent script that takes time to explore the crisis of current interpersonal relationships, machismo and the desire of many men to obtain female submission and reduce their partner to a mere decorative element that gives them status.

A solid ensemble of actors in which the rising Sophie Thatcher stands out. In a plot that takes place in an isolated place in the middle of a forest where the best and worst of human passions emerge.

A notable proposal at the dawn of 2025 that will be talked about throughout the year.

Movie was a pretty interesting watch. It wasn't too long, which I appreciated, and the pacing kept things moving. The acting was solid, with the main character delivering a standout performance that really carried the movie. The rest of the cast did well too, but she was the highlight for me.

That being said, the plot felt a bit weak. It had potential, but it didn't go as deep as I hoped, and some parts felt predictable. It's still entertaining, but don't expect anything groundbreaking story-wise.

One big tip: don't watch the trailer before seeing the movie. It gives away too much and takes away from some of the surprises. If you go in blind, you'll have a much better experience.

Overall, it's worth watching for the performances and the concept, but it's not the kind of movie that will stick with you for long.

Companion is a fast-paced, darkly funny sci-fi thriller that's creepy, shocking, and wildly satisfying. It dives into heavy themes like control, abuse, and toxic masculinity while delivering some brutal, bloody moments-and it's all surprisingly empowering. The kills are creative (corkscrews and voice modulators, anyone?), and the modern humor paired with a killer soundtrack keeps it fresh and entertaining.

Sophie Thatcher absolutely kills it as Iris, bringing depth, intensity, and a sharp edge to a role that could have easily felt one-note in lesser hands. This isn't just another parody; it's razor-sharp satire that takes no prisoners, forcing every audience member to look within themselves while making misogynistic men furious. Honestly, it puts Black Mirror to shame.

The tagline "from the studio that brought you The Notebook" is absolute chaos, but it weirdly fits the film's unhinged energy. Best of all, Companion isn't a remake, reboot, sequel, or ripoff-it's exactly the kind of pure originality people have been begging for. If you're into bold, bloody horror comedies, this one's a crowd-pleaser and the perfect date movie.

I went to this movie after I was convinced by the reviews here. Unfortunately, this movie wasn't the twisty bloody fun described here. It wasn't that bad, either, but it was plain, predictable, and not very giving.

The acting was decent, though I think that not even Brad Pitt and Meryl Streep could have done something better out of those lines.

There wasn't anything slasher in it, no suspense, no comedy, it didn't excel in absolutely anything, not even depicting an incel, a subject that itself is very giving.

Though I really appreciate the effort put into it, I would say it's best to see it at home than to spend money at the movies for it.

I read good reviews and expected a better movie. Don't be like me, please don't expect an exciting action movie, good thriller or a deep sci-fi production like a good Westworld episode. Frankly, I can't say that it has a very clever script, although it does contain some creative scenes.

However, apart from a few scenes with unnecessarily long dialogues, you can watch the movie without getting bored. If you like stories on this subject, you can spare your time for this movie.

By the way, I hope you haven't seen the trailer, it contains some creative scenes and might spoil the fun of the film...

Saw an early screening of the movie and it was ok. AI thrillers are not that original. There is an episode of black miror that definetly resembles this film. I think the humor definitely made the movie better. I wish they would have expanded a little more on the characters background and maybe have a better ending but over all it wasn't a bad movie. The beginning was a little weird and it took a while to adjust to the vibe. And there was a few moments that made me gasp so points for that. It was bloody, funny, with a little mystery thriller and a sprinkle of romance. Definitely not a horror film. I decided to purchase the mystery movie night because it was labeled as a rated R horror movie. It was everything but that. Over all movie was meh. It was ok but I probably would never watch it again.

Not so long ago, artificial intelligence was more of a sci-fi punchline than a powerhouse. Robots were clunky, glitch-prone and about as emotionally intelligent as a toaster. They were exceedingly unimpressive, tripping over their own circuits, while repeating themselves like broken records. They gave us a glimpse of a future that always seemed just out of reach- while reassuring us that the robot uprising was at least a few centuries away.

Then, seemingly overnight, AI levelled up. Gone are the days of mechanical goofballs- today's AI can chat, create and even mimic human emotions with eerie precision. It's evolving at a pace that makes Moore's Law look sluggish. What once felt like the distant future is now at our doorstep, knocking- perhaps a little too confidently.

Once, this was the stuff of sci-fi horror. Now, it's a frightening reality. Drew Hancock's darkly comic 'Companion' taps into these anxieties, spinning them into a nightmare that might be closer than we think. It centres on Iris and her boyfriend Josh, who are spending a weekend getaway with some of his friends at the home of a Russian billionaire. Soon, events take a dark, unexpected turn; and none of their lives will ever be the same again.

It must be said upfront that the film suffers from one of the most spoiler-heavy trailers in recent memory. Much like the ones for 2024's 'Abigail,' it divulges far too much of the plot, undercutting moments that would have otherwise been shocking. Again and again throughout the film, scenes meant to be surprising lose their edge when you already know what's coming. While 'Companion' still manages to build tension in other ways, one can't help but wonder how much more effective it would have been had the marketing held back.

It is a shame, as, despite that, the film is suspenseful and entertaining. A little like the cinematic love-child of 'The Stepford Wives' and Spike Jonze's 'Her,' it is a delightfully dark trip from start to finish. Hancock has a good ear for dialogue, and his central two characters are believable creations. In addition, interesting themes are explored, such as empowerment, the complexities of relationships and the blurred line between technological convenience and human dependence.

The film explores how people seek connection, the ways in which technology fills emotional voids and the unsettling possibility that, at some point, we may no longer be able to distinguish between real intimacy and artificial affection. It also examines the ways in which AI, designed to serve and assist, can just as easily manipulate, control or replace human agency entirely. The film raises questions about autonomy- how much control we truly have over our own lives when technology becomes deeply ingrained in our daily existence.

At its core, however, the film is a story of female empowerment. The film follows Iris, a woman navigating oppressive dynamics, whether they be in her relationship with Josh or within a broader system seeking to control her. Hancock's narrative explores the idea of breaking free- not just from AI-driven manipulation, but from toxic relationships that strip women of their independence. Iris- as well as Kat, the other female character- is not just a victim of circumstance; they are active participants in reclaiming their agency, making choices that challenge the forces trying to confine them.

Yet, while the film is thematically rich and often gripping, it isn't without its flaws. Beyond the aforementioned issues with the trailers, the film isn't exactly unpredictable. Even without prior knowledge of the plot, many of its twists feel telegraphed, especially for seasoned genre fans. Additionally, some secondary characters come across as caricatures rather than fully realized individuals, which lessens the emotional impact of their fates. Given the strength of its themes, a little more narrative unpredictability and character depth could have elevated 'Companion' even further.

Visually, the film is just as striking as it is thematically compelling, boasting a sleek, polished aesthetic mirroring its exploration of technology's grip on human lives. Eli Born's cinematography plays a crucial role in establishing mood and tension, with sharp, precise framing often isolating characters, reinforcing themes of control and surveillance. The lighting choices are equally effective, contrasting cold, artificial tones with warmer, more natural hues to reflect the struggle between human connection and technological dominance.

Moreover, Scott Kuzio's production design further amplifies the film's themes, with sleek, minimalist interiors feeling both luxurious and unnervingly sterile- environments that seem designed more for observation than comfort. In addition, Brett W. Bachman and Josh Ethier's editing is tight and purposeful, maintaining a brisk pace while allowing tension to simmer in quieter moments. Complementing all of this is the score from Hrishikesh Hirway, which pulses with an eerie, electronic undercurrent of unease. He also makes great use of songs from the likes of Labi Siffre and The Turtles, among others.

At the heart of the film is a standout performance from the lead, Sophie Thatcher, as Iris. She brings a palpable sense of vulnerability and strength to the role, capturing Iris's internal conflict as she navigates the oppressive forces in both her relationship and the world around her. There's an authenticity to her portrayal of a woman slowly realizing her power- her nuanced performance elevates the emotional stakes, especially in scenes where Iris battles between autonomy and submission.

Jack Quaid is similarly good as Josh, playing a character whose outward "nice guy" persona may hide more complex and troubling layers. Quaid subtly explores the tension between Josh's surface-level charm and the insecurity and control he struggles to conceal. Lukas Gage and Megan Suri both do strong work as Patrick and Kat, two of Josh's friends, even if their characters lack depth. Furthermore, Rupert Friend is terrific as Sergey, the Russian billionaire, clearly having a ball with the material and character.

In conclusion, Drew Hancock's 'Companion' is an entertaining, if not particularly unpredictable, dark-comedy. Although it might want for unexpected moments, and some of the secondary characters lack depth, Hancock's narrative is engaging, and his exploration of the themes therein are compelling. Boasting fine cinematography, as well as a stirring score and terrific performances- especially those of Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid and Rupert Friend- 'Companion' is a timely reminder that, while we may fear AI, it's really humans we should watch out for.

I do have to echo the idea that Companion is a movie best gone into knowing nothing. As someone who unfortunately had one very key aspect spoiled I think not having that knowledge would've enhanced a lot of my reactions to this movie. Having said that though it doesn't take away from how genuinely solid it is and how it had a much better script than it has any right to. I just think the writing here is really smart in that it takes a fairly simple plot and does it's own thing with it with some really smart moments of set up that pay off in ways that aren't just satisfying but also really hilarious. The casting is also on point with Jack Quaid continuing to prove himself as both a master of comedy and drama and Sophie Thatcher is really solidifying herself as a new Scream Queen to look out for. While the script itself does elevate it, I was a bit disappointed at how fairly straight forward the actual story was and I think it's because the trailers seemed to imply something a bit more unique. There's a reveal early on that's shows you what the movie really is but I think this is something that should've been saved for later as I think it would've made the set up a bit more intriguing. The film also devolves into being a bit more of a straight forward slasher after that reveal and there was a point where I was worried about things becoming a bit too generic. The final third does bring it back however and I just ended up feeling gratified by the experience of this movie. It's a unique approach to a bit of standard story and it just left me with a satisfied feeling at the end of the day.

I watched Companion early as the selection for this week's Mystery Movie Monday. I knew nothing about it going in, which worked out amazingly because discovering the premise was one of the most enjoyable aspects of the movie. Another example of why I don't watch trailers.

This is a movie filled with intrigue, especially early on as we find out more and more. It's also surprisingly funny, with several moments when the entire theater was laughing.

I was enjoying it for the most part, but a few things held it back for me. The third act lingers and doesn't fully seem to know where to go. It becomes predictable and falls into familiar tropes of the subgenre. And there is also some forced messaging.

I had a decent time with this movie, but I'm a little disappointed because it was close to being something great; something memorable that stands out.

(1 viewing, Marcus Mystery Movie 1/27/2025)

One big tip: don't watch the trailer before seeing this movie. It gives away too much and takes away from some of the surprises. I went in blind, and I had a much better experience because of it.

Companion is a pretty interesting watch. What stood out to me was how the movie explored emotional intuition-the kind you should have, but don't, because of how you were raised and conditioned. It touches on beliefs that limit intelligence, keeping it controlled to the point where it's crippling. Have you ever met someone who didn't just want a partner, but wanted someone less than them? Someone who would never outthink or challenge them? The kind of person who resents their significant other not because they dislike them, but because they don't see them as an equal-just an object to use and suppress? This film taps into that unsettling dynamic.

That being said, in some parts the plot felt a bit weak. It had potential but didn't go as deep as I hoped, and some moments were predictable. It's still entertaining, but don't expect anything groundbreaking story-wise.

The acting was solid, with Sophie Thatcher delivering a standout performance that really carried the film. The rest of the cast did well too, but she was the clear highlight for me. That Josh guy, though? He got on my nerves from the very start!

Companion had the potential to be great. For me, it was good enough but definitely could have been better. Still, it's worth a watch for the performances and the themes it hints at, even if it doesn't fully explore them.

Hadn't read any reviews on this . We saw this at a secret screaming preview tonight . It opens Friday in England . Was glad it was this as we have seen the trailer and I do like a thriller . I have to admit I didn't recognise any of the stars in the film but that's ok. The film takes a twist that I wasn't aware of. And I did do an eye roll when I realise BUT it isn't a robot/take over sort of film. I really enjoyed it . I don't know if I would go and see it again though. It didn't make me jump. Did make me laugh though and was an enjoyable film to watch. If you Like thrillers and something a little different then go and check his out.

The film is very watchable and clips along nicely. But if you're expecting a straight horror film, which is what this film has been marketed as, you'll be sorely disappointed. This is more like a darkly comedic thriller, with horror elements.

There's a great deal of humor, mostly dark comedy, that's sprinkled throughout the film. While it certainly adds some levity in an otherwise bleak storyline, it actually kind of takes away from the film overall. There are several moments that could've been much more unsettling, scary, or gripping, but the gravitas was unfortunately diluted by the comedy. It almost feels like a formulaic and generic mixture of the films The Terminator (1984) and Ex Machina (2014); except this film is not on the same level as either of those films and is nowhere near as thought-provoking and intriguing.

That's not to say that the film is not worth seeing. The performances across the board are good. Sophie Thatcher is great and charismatic here as the lead. She really makes you feel for her character. And Harvey Guillén has a few hilarious lines.

I feel like if the film minimized its humor or got rid of it completely and this was dramatic throughout, the stakes would have felt higher and the film would've been better overall. As is, it's a pretty good film with some nice visuals and cool action scenes.