Companion Film review 2025

The promise of something both romantic and terrifying is an unusual mix, and I went in expecting a wild ride. Luckily, Companion delivers in spades. It’s a funny, gory, and refreshingly unique genre film that defies easy categorization. The less you know about it going in, the better—so I’ll keep this review as spoiler-free as possible. But if you’re looking for something new and exciting to watch this weekend, Companion should be high on your list.

A Genre-Bending Surprise

One of the most compelling aspects of Companion is how it skillfully blends multiple genres. At its core, there are romantic comedy elements that provide an emotional foundation, but horror and sci-fi influences are also deeply ingrained in the story. What makes the film particularly effective is how fluidly it shifts between tones. At times, it feels like a classic romance, only to morph into something unsettling and mysterious. This seamless fusion of styles is one of the film’s greatest strengths, making it an experience that feels fresh and unpredictable.

Surprise plays a significant role in Companion, but it’s not a movie that relies solely on shocking twists. The narrative is carefully constructed so that even if you know what’s coming, the execution remains engaging. However, I strongly recommend going in as blind as possible—it makes the journey even more thrilling.

A Suspenseful Setup

The film begins with a classic meet-cute between Iris (Sophie Thatcher) and Josh (Jack Quaid). Their chemistry is immediate and believable, setting the stage for a relationship that feels genuine. Soon, the couple embarks on a weekend trip with Josh’s friends. What initially appears to be a quaint getaway in the woods quickly takes an unexpected turn when they arrive at a sprawling estate owned by Sergey (Rupert Friend), the new and enigmatic boyfriend of Josh’s close friend Kat (Megan Suri).

From the start, it’s clear that Kat isn’t particularly fond of Iris, and the tension between them simmers beneath the surface. Also present on this trip are Eli (Harvey Guillén) and Patrick (Lukas Gage), who provide moments of levity while adding to the group dynamic. The first night at the estate is uneventful, though there’s an undeniable air of unease. Sergey’s presence is subtly off-putting, and Iris seems especially on edge.

Then, everything changes. The next day, Iris has a disturbing encounter with Sergey that escalates violently. She returns to the house covered in his blood, leaving the group in shock. From this moment forward, Companion shifts into high gear, taking the audience on a ride filled with tension, mystery, and a few truly unexpected developments. The second half of the film is where things get truly wild, and I won’t spoil a second of it. Just know that it goes places you won’t see coming.

A Strong Cast Led by Sophie Thatcher

A film like Companion hinges on its performances, and Sophie Thatcher delivers an outstanding turn as Iris. Her role demands a tremendous amount of emotional range, and she rises to the occasion, carrying the movie with ease. She’s compelling, layered, and utterly believable as a woman thrown into an unimaginable situation.

Jack Quaid also impresses, giving his character more depth than one might initially expect. His interactions with Thatcher feel authentic, making their relationship all the more engaging to watch unfold. Meanwhile, Harvey Guillén provides some much-needed comic relief, and Lukas Gage’s role takes some unexpected turns that allow him to showcase more range than initially anticipated. Megan Suri, while somewhat underutilized, plays her part effectively, and Rupert Friend leans into his eccentric character with full force. His performance might be polarizing, but it’s undeniably memorable.

The supporting cast, including Woody Fu, Younus Howlader, Marc Menchaca, and Jaboukie Young-White, all contribute meaningfully, but this is ultimately Thatcher’s film. She’s the undeniable standout, and her performance elevates the entire experience.

An Impressive Debut for Drew Hancock

Writer-director Drew Hancock makes a striking first impression with Companion. His ability to weave together humor, horror, and sci-fi elements is commendable, and he approaches the material with a confident vision. There’s a darkly comedic core to the film that never gets lost, even as it delves into psychological horror and science fiction. It’s rare to see a debut feature that feels this assured in its execution, and Hancock proves himself to be a filmmaker worth keeping an eye on.

What’s particularly impressive is how Hancock maintains control of the story, ensuring that even as it takes unexpected detours, it never feels disjointed. The film is carefully paced, always keeping the audience engaged while building tension in a way that pays off spectacularly. Companion is not just an entertaining movie—it’s a statement of intent from a filmmaker who clearly has a lot to offer.

Final Thoughts

Companion is a gripping, unpredictable, and wildly entertaining film that benefits from strong performances, clever storytelling, and a bold mix of genres. While going in blind will enhance the experience, it’s a testament to the film’s quality that it remains engaging even if you know the broad strokes. It’s a calling card for Drew Hancock, a breakout moment for Sophie Thatcher, and a thoroughly enjoyable genre-bending ride.

For an early-year release, Companion is a cut above the usual fare. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, funny, and a little bit terrifying, this is absolutely worth your time.