Companion (2025): AI Horror That’s More Comedy Than Creepy

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The recently released horror movie titled “Companion” is a fresh addition to the expanding field of films focusing on artificial intelligence. Many of the recent productions have been considered lightweight entertainment (“M3GAN”, “Subservience” among others). However, there are instances when we get something thought-provoking and surprising. “Companion” finds itself in this category, offering a unique twist that distinguishes it from its peers. Nevertheless, it doesn’t quite reach the level of originality or depth that it strives for.

For the first time at the big screen, writer-director Drew Hancock presents “Companion,” a film that aligns with contemporary horror movies from this era that lean more towards humor and plot twists rather than traditional scares. Unlike its peers, “Companion” doesn’t aim to make you jump or feel uneasy. Instead, it offers a blend of dark comedy and a warped take on revenge fantasies. Therefore, audiences should not expect nail-biting suspense when they watch this film.

Regrettably, despite Hancock’s valiant efforts to contain his aspirations, the film falters in aspects that are conspicuous. For instance, “Companion” starts off promisingly, but the initial significant revelation, which would have been impactful if unspoiled, was unfortunately given away during promotions. However, to its credit, the movie keeps audiences engaged as we wait for the plot to catch up with what we’ve already learned.

As the narrative unfolds, you’ll notice that what initially appeared as a tightly knit plot starts to fray. By the climax, the film loses its direction due to significant plot inconsistencies, which remain unaddressed and leave us with unresolved questions. The movie’s central idea is not novel, relying on common themes that have been used extensively without offering fresh insights or perspectives.

In a first-person perspective as a movie critic:

I found myself drawn into a chilling tale, where a group of acquaintances, arguably some of the least intelligent characters I’ve seen on screen this year, convene at a serene lakeside retreat for a weekend escape. The only exception to this group is the endearing yet shy character named Iris (Sophie Thatcher), who arrives hand-in-hand with her somewhat dim-witted partner Josh (Jack Quaid). Upon their arrival, they’re greeted by Josh’s friends – the vivacious Kat (Megan Suri) and her wealthy Russian benefactor Sergey. To add to the mix is Eli (Harvey Guillén), who brought along his boyfriend Patrick (Lukas Gage). The stage was set for an unforgettable weekend, little did they know what horrors awaited them at this seemingly idyllic lakeside house.

It’s preferable for you to be minimally informed beforehand, but considering its significance during the promotion, I should disclose this detail: Iris turns out to be an AI-controlled robot that Josh bought from a tech firm. He manages her functions, including her intelligence, emotions (affection and aggression), through his phone application. However, there’s a twist – Iris is unaware of being a robot, so she believes the feelings she experiences are real, when in fact they are merely programmed responses.

However, when an act of violence results in one individual’s death, secrets begin to unravel. Initially, Iris is left stunned by the revelations about her own life. It also transpires that Josh and his companions are not as they seemed. The narrative then takes unexpected turns, some of which make sense but not always. As the story progresses, it becomes increasingly absurd and violent, though this isn’t necessarily a negative aspect. Unfortunately, in this case, none of the twists seem to have any substantial basis or meaning.

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2025-01-31 18:56