Companion

Some films catch you off guard. The Companion is one of those: it feels like a long, twisted episode of Black Mirror, with creepy tech, a semi-futuristic vibe, dark comedy, and some brutally graphic violence. But instead of being just another wacky concept, it's got a story that grabs you and builds up with real rhythm and smarts.

Sophie Thatcher is fantastic. I already knew her from Yellowjackets and of course the Harness Your Hopes video by Pavement, and here she proves once again she's got a magnetic screen presence-even playing an android. Jack Quaid is also great, especially if you're used to him in The Boys, because his character here is completely different: darker, more nuanced, and with a well-built arc.

The film leans into the whole "tech with a moral" idea, but without getting preachy. It plays with themes like toxic masculinity, control, and the fear of female autonomy, but does it with biting humor and always keeps the fun factor alive. Visually it's polished, and while it doesn't reinvent anything, it pushes its concept all the way with style and guts.

It's not perfect, but it's definitely a good time. One of those films that goes down easy, surprises you, and leaves you thinking. If you're into horror with a message and a bit of satire, this is a solid choice.

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.

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.

$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.

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.