A recent release, the film Companion, directed by Drew Hancock, has been turning heads since it hit theatres on January 31. Described as a sci-fi horror comedy with poignant commentary on class, misogyny, and autonomy, the film has garnered mixed reviews but remains engaging and thought-provoking.
At its core, Companion follows the story of Iris (Sophie Thatcher), who is introduced as Josh's humanoid companion robot. While the initial setting appears to be yet another weekend getaway trope, the film takes sharp turns as it delves deep not only entertaining thrills but also unsettling social critiques.
Josh, played by Jack Quaid, isn't just your average boyfriend; he embodies the archetype of the controlling male figure, seemingly projecting frustrations and expectations onto Iris. The film makes it clear early on: Josh's intentions aren’t purely benevolent. "I think Josh is just a supremely frustrated guy, who has never heard the words, 'I love you,'" Quaid explained during interviews, adding layers to his character's complexity. The relationship dynamics are thrown off balance when it becomes evident during the cabin retreat with friends, including Eli (Harvey Guillén) and Kat (Megan Suri), just how dangerous the situation is. After Iris kills Sergey (Rupert Friend) during self-defense, the narrative spirals out of control.
Critics have pointed out the film's struggle to settle on its identity. Shane Mead, writing for the Fandango, remarked, "Companion struggled to find its identity. It’s a jack of all trades but truly is the master of none:" lacking the necessary thrills to be classified successfully as horror or the depth for comedy. Other reviewers echoed similar sentiments, stating it mixes genres without fully committing to any of them.
The film manages to provoke thoughtful discussions about the ethics of AI relationships, particularly through the filter of femininity and societal expectations. The tagline takes on new meanings as viewers start to perceive Iris as more than just Josh's possession. Thatcher's portrayal shines, showcasing her character's growth from being simply obedient to reclaiming her autonomy. Reviewers highlighted her range, demonstrating Iris's evolution during her harrowing escape from Josh.
Mead noted the film's inconsistencies could lead viewers to predict plot developments, stating, "It had its moments where a joke hit, but there were disappointing clichés too. You wonder why such a big-budget film would take such predictable routes." Yet, the moments of humor and action offered respite between the significant themes being tackled, acting as both entertainment and subtext.
Hancock’s film attempts to dissect the male loneliness epidemic and abusive relationships, but is critiqued for only skimming the surface. The Emory Wheel's Martha Caroline Powell expressed concerns about the film's male-centric perspective on misogyny, underscoring, "If it discusses sexbots to tackle misogyny, I would prefer it carried out by women on-screen." She posited the potential for enhanced intimacy and more meaningful exploration of emotional experiences.
The fun aspect of Companion is found within its sci-fi components and clever storytelling, particularly the twist surrounding robotics and love. There’s playful energy infused throughout, even as it warns about dependency on technology and the vulnerabilities it presents within human relationships. Reviewers described the film as humorous, yet also layered with depth— "seems to set itself up for needless sequel"— and packed with tender moments amid the chaos.
Overall, Companion is regarded as worth seeing, with many agreeing on its potential for sparking conversation after the film concludes. The running time is short and engaging, and many agree it leaves audiences pondering the morality of our engagement with technology. While some aim to hate the film, it has emerged as surprisingly enjoyable according to various critiques.
With its thought-provoking themes and twists, Drew Hancock's Companion may not necessarily align with all expectations from audiences, but it certainly provides entertainment coupled with depth—making it a noteworthy addition to this year's cinematic offerings.