Ukrainian cinemas started showing the film “Companion” on January 30. This psychological thriller mixes horror and comedy elements. It stars Jack Quaid from “The Boys,” along with Lucas Gage and Sophie Thatcher, who appeared in “Smile 2” and “Heretic.” If you haven’t seen the trailers yet, be aware that this review will reveal key features of the movie. It’s better to read this after watching the film to avoid spoilers!
About the Film
“Companion” is directed by Drew Hancock and features a talented cast, including Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, Lucas Gage, and others. The film explores a unique relationship between a human and an AI companion, touching on themes of love, technology, and moral dilemmas. The story opens in a supermarket where Josh, a socially awkward guy, meets Iris, a stunning brunette. Their instant connection leads them to a lavish getaway with friends, but everything takes a turn after a mysterious and tragic incident near a picturesque lake. The twist? Iris is not just a girl; she’s an AI companion unsure of her true nature.
Movies showcasing artificial intelligence have become popular recently. Examples include “Archive,” “M3GAN,” and “Subservience.” With AI being part of our daily lives, these films often spark discussion about human interaction with technology.
In his directorial debut, Drew Hancock raises tough ethical questions, reminiscent of classic science fiction, while crafting an engaging film.
Hancock cleverly engages viewers emotionally and subverts their expectations, blending suspense, horror, and humor. For example, a memorable scene involves an android programmed to tell the truth hilariously switching languages to evade a detective.
The film highlights how technology influences our lives, often replacing genuine human interaction with digital communication. Today, many of us rely on dating apps and social media for connection, forgetting how to form meaningful relationships offline. As society becomes increasingly distanced from real interactions, the demand for AI companions like Iris may grow, raising complex moral questions.
The creators of “Companion” manage to present a thoughtful take on AI and human relations, all while delivering an entertaining viewing experience.
The film challenges traditional roles, showing that while androids serve humans, it’s often people who can be flawed or harmful. This dynamic complicates what it means to be “human” in the story. Josh, for instance, can present a perfect front thanks to Iris, changing how relationships are initiated.
The relationships in “Companion” blur the lines between genuine connection and artificial interactions, prompting viewers to reconsider what makes us truly human.
Despite a few predictable moments, “Companion” offers an engaging narrative that stands out. Hancock’s storytelling weaves humor and thought-provoking ideas together smoothly, avoiding overly serious tones found in other sci-fi films.
Overall, “Companion” presents a fascinating exploration of technology’s impact on human relationships. It entertains and prompts important questions about our connection with AI. If you’re looking for a film that mixes thoughtfulness with fun, this one is a must-watch.