Companion (USA 2025) – Sci-Fi Thriller by Drew Hancock

Content:  In this podcast, we talk about the 2025 sci-fi thriller “Companion” by director Drew Hancock.  We highlight the movie's blend of dark comedy, social satire, and exploration of AI anxieties. We praise the performances of Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid, and the film's brisk pacing and surprising plot twists. We also note some shortcomings, such as a predictable third act and underdeveloped supporting characters.  Despite these flaws, we deem "Companion" a well-crafted and entertaining debut, suggesting Hancock is a filmmaker to watch. The film uses a pastel aesthetic to balance the gore with humor, and keeps the audience engaged with its many surprises.  Plot:  The story kicks off with Iris, a young woman smitten with her boyfriend Josh, recounting their grocery-store meet-cute in a voiceover tinged with nostalgia—and a chilling hint of violence. Soon, the couple heads to a remote lakehouse for a weekend getaway with Josh’s friends.  What starts as a familiar cabin-in-the-woods setup quickly pivots when Iris, blood-soaked and panicked, returns from a lakeside encounter, revealing a shocking truth. From there, the film spirals into a chaotic mix of betrayal, murder, and darkly comic power plays.