Photo by Jack Simon
I’ve been looking forward to “Companion” since I saw the trailer a few months back. The preview let slip an exciting twist: the main character, Iris (played by Sophie Thatcher), is a girlfriend robot designed to be a companion based on the owner’s mood. This clever setup kept most of the plot a mystery, making the movie a rewarding surprise.
The world-building in “Companion” is top-notch. It immerses you in a futuristic setting right from the start. We see characters using an electric car with autonomous driving capabilities and advanced touch technology that blurs the line between current and future devices. This clever introduction takes us into a world that feels real yet uncharted, allowing us to fully engage with the story.
The script takes its time to explore Iris’s existence without rushing to reveal her true nature. It invites the audience to ponder complex themes, like whether Iris’s objectification is intentional or if her owner, Josh (Jack Quaid), is simply problematic. This duality opens the door to deeper questions about the nature of relationships between humans and AI, keeping you guessing as the story unfolds.
As the film progresses, it continues to expand on these ideas. For instance, we meet another character who is an earlier version of Iris. Unlike Iris, this character knows they’re a robot and embraces their identity. This perspective adds richness to the narrative and helps us consider the implications of AI in our lives. It also offers insights into our understanding of intelligence and existence, offering layers that are often missing in more straightforward explanations.
Despite its strengths, “Companion” isn’t perfect. It feels like a more thrilling but less profound version of “Her.” The script has sharp writing but sometimes leans too heavily on its critique of certain communities, particularly those related to incel culture. There are moments where the satire seems a bit too obvious, and certain lines can come off as recycled ideas rather than fresh commentary. Jack Quaid’s performance occasionally feels one-dimensional, lacking the emotional range that the role demands. Fortunately, the rest of the cast delivers strong performances, helping to balance out the film.
The editing style sometimes disrupts the flow of the story. The non-linear storytelling can come off as confusing, detracting from the overall experience. These choices create bumps that prevent “Companion” from reaching its full potential.
Overall, “Companion” is an engaging film that tackles important themes through a lens of creativity and humor. It’s a thought-provoking watch that may leave you contemplating the future of technology and relationships.
Critic Score: 7.7 out of 10
