Drew Hancock’s directorial debut, Companion, is best experienced with as little information as possible. Backed by the team behind 2022’s Horror hit Barbarian, they have crafted another wild, twist-filled ride that keeps audiences on edge. Blending Horror, Comedy, and Science Fiction, Companion delivers sharp dialogue, a stellar cast, and timely themes that feel more relevant than ever. Featuring some of the most exciting rising talents in film and television, Companion stars Sophie Thatcher as Iris (The Boogeyman 2023, Heretic 2024), Jack Quaid as Josh (The Boys series, Scream 2022), and the always hilarious Harvey Guillén as Eli (What We Do in the Shadows series, Blue Beetle 2023). Run, don’t walk, to see Companion, hitting theaters January 31, 2025, courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.
While not written and directed by Zach Cregger, the writer and director of 2022’s Barbarian, the tone and spirit of that film can be felt throughout Companion. At times, Companion feels like an extension to explore similar themes of female autonomy and exploration of power dynamics. It also asks the audience to contemplate what it means to be human – which is a popular theme these days with the rise of AI.
Despite these more serious themes, the use of comedy helps to strike a balance against the darkness of the story. This humor does not undercut the stakes but instead heightens the unpredictability of the film, making every twist feel more intense. Companion crafts a captivating atmosphere where Horror, satire, and social commentary blend seamlessly, keeping the audience on edge while also inviting them to reflect on the societal issues at play.
Film these days often leans toward storylines that do not require the audience to suspend their disbelief, opting instead for grounded, realistic narratives that reflect real-world situations. But in an era where escapism feels more essential than ever, Companion invites the audience to embrace a bit of imaginative freedom, offering a thrilling escape that asks for some willing suspension of reality. This may be a turn-off for some—there are definitely unanswered questions and plot holes by the time the third act rolls around. However, most will not mind when the antics are this much fun. Approach this film without rigid expectations or a need for total realism, and you are in for an enjoyable ride.
Quaid’s performance is part of what makes this film stand out – he takes his natural charm and likability and portrays the kind of millennial man many women lament about from dating apps – the self-proclaimed good guy who is actually not so good at all. Hancock’s writing of this character captures the nuances of the entitlement and victimhood we see in real life among a certain group of men in society. This is part of what makes Companion a Horror film, as it reflects a chilling reality where the true terror lies in the everyday dynamics of manipulation, gaslighting, and the darkness that lurks beneath a carefully curated exterior.
Additionally, Companion taps into societal fears, making the terror feel disturbingly close to home for some. In contrast to Quaid’s performance, Thatcher offers us a character undergoing a powerful evolution, transitioning from vulnerability to strength by the end of the film. Iris comes to some revelations that push her to transform, giving the audience a few good laughs and a reason to root for her success. The character arch follows a modern ‘scream queen’ trope – but Thatcher brings enough charm and humility to the performance that it avoids feeling stale.
Ultimately, Companion is a film that knows how to keep you engaged, effortlessly combining Horror, humor, and social critique into a singularly and well-paced experience. Drew Hancock’s debut is a thrilling, genre-blending ride that’s equal parts unnerving and entertaining, tapping into fears that feel disturbingly relevant to today’s world.
While the plot may leave some questions unanswered, the unpredictable nature of the film—along with its nuanced characters and darkly comedic tone—ensures the ride is well worth taking. This is why Cryptic Rock gives Companion 4.5 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment