Artificial intelligence has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, assisting with everything from crafting emails to generating recipes. But what if AI could take on an even more intimate role, serving as a romantic partner? This provocative question lies at the heart of Drew Hancock's directorial debut, "Companion", a film that blends sci-fi, horror, and relationship drama into a compelling cinematic experience.
At first glance, "Companion" presents itself as a thriller with a classic "cabin in the woods" setup. Josh (Jack Quaid) and his girlfriend, Iris (Sophie Thatcher), join their friends for a weekend getaway at a secluded lakeside home owned by Sergey (Rupert Friend), the wealthy and controlling boyfriend of Kat (Megan Suri). Alongside their companions Eli (Harvey Guillén) and Patrick (Lukas Gage), the group anticipates a fun-filled retreat. However, the trip takes a dark turn when a disturbing altercation leaves Iris in a state of shock, leading to a series of unpredictable events.
What makes "Companion" truly engaging is its gradual revelation of Iris' true nature. She is not merely a quiet and overly accommodating girlfriend-she is an advanced AI, an "emotional support robot" designed by the faceless tech corporation Empathix. This revelation recontextualizes her relationship with Josh, who, rather than unlocking her full potential, has restricted her to a subservient role. His programming choices have reduced her to little more than an obedient companion, suppressing her intelligence and independence.
Hancock masterfully uses this premise to explore deeper themes of control, agency, and toxic relationships. Beneath the horror-thriller facade, "Companion" is fundamentally a breakup movie, charting Iris' journey toward self-awareness and liberation. Sophie Thatcher delivers a standout performance, transitioning from a docile, naive partner to a self-assured and formidable force. Quaid, known for his boy-next-door charm, skillfully peels back the layers of Josh, revealing a manipulative and self-serving character. Meanwhile, Guillén and Suri provide strong supporting performances, adding humor and tension to the mix.
The film's setting further enhances its eerie, isolating atmosphere. The vast, misty forest and the seemingly idyllic yet ominous lake house create a striking visual backdrop. Hancock, alongside cinematographer Charlie Sarroff, ensures that the film is not just visually arresting but also thematically resonant. The cinematography oscillates between moments of natural beauty and unsettling claustrophobia, reflecting the growing tension among the characters.
While "Companion" does indulge in traditional horror elements, it never relies solely on jump scares or gore. Instead, it thrives on psychological tension and the unsettling implications of AI-human relationships. The special effects are subtly integrated, ensuring that the film remains grounded rather than veering into the realm of the overly fantastical.
Of course, no film is without its flaws. At 97 minutes, "Companion" occasionally feels thin on narrative substance, relying more on its twists than deep storytelling. Upon closer inspection, a few plot holes emerge, and some characters could have been developed further. Yet, these minor shortcomings do not overshadow the film's strengths. Its ability to weave thought-provoking themes into a genre film makes it a standout entry in the modern AI-centric cinematic landscape.
"Companion" has garnered praise for its bold approach, earning Hancock the "Director to Watch" award at the Palm Springs Film Festival. Its mix of social commentary, horror, and sci-fi elements ensures that it remains engaging and memorable. With a modest $10 million budget, the film has achieved remarkable results, proving that compelling storytelling and strong performances can outshine excessive CGI or A-list casting.
For those considering a home viewing, "Companion" is available in both 4K UHD and Blu-ray formats, with Warner Bros. ensuring a high-quality visual and audio experience. The film's Dolby Atmos mix enhances its immersive sound design, while the HDR10-supported transfer delivers crisp and detailed visuals. Bonus features may be sparse, but the film itself more than justifies the purchase.
The following extras are included:
- "I Feel, Therefore I Am" - Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher dive into the complex relationships in the film.
- "Love, Eli" - Harvey Guillén and Lukas Gage discuss the relationship of Patrick and Eli, and how they met.
- "AI Horror" - This feature takes a more in-depth look at the characters as well as the visual and practical effects.
In the end, "Companion" is a thrilling, thought-provoking ride that invites audiences to reflect on the implications of AI in our personal lives. It's a breakup movie disguised as a horror flick, a feminist statement wrapped in sci-fi intrigue, and a testament to Hancock's ability to defy genre expectations. Whether you come for the suspense, the social commentary, or the sheer entertainment, "Companion" delivers on all fronts.
Grade: B+
