Companion

The marketing shouldn't have revealed the big first act twist however, Companion is still twisty enough to not be derailed by that and it's unpredictable nature also makes it worthy of Barbarian director Zach Cregger's heavily marketed producing credit. It's a great thriller about the worst tendencies of the worst kinds of men and their ideal controlling relationship, eschewing subtlety to bluntly state and show its themes for a bloody good time.

Sophie Thatcher is fantastic in what should be a star making performance. She's done strong work in a couple of horror films recently but this is on a whole other level since so much more is required of her and she does it all flawlessly. Jack Quaid cements that he's as good at playing nice guys who really aren't as he is playing loveable characters like Hughie from The Boys. Just like his performance in Scream, he knows exactly how to portray a pathetic character effectively.

In an impressive debut, writer & director Drew Hancock keeps the film on its toes without breaking the momentum it gains very quickly with perfectly timed humour whilst drip feeding information about the larger world at play. Eli Born's cinematography stands out by drawing attention to the most important items that end up being used in highly satisfying ways and the soundtrack utilises very knowing song choices throughout.

Imagine a modern twist on The Stepford Wives. If you've seen the trailer, you'll have a pretty good idea of where this is going, because the trailer reveals too much, why do they keep doing this?!

The film was entertaining and had its moments. There were a few laughs and a good dose of gore to keep things interesting. Sophie Thatcher definitely stole the show with her performance, making it worth the watch.

The movie delivers what it promises without any pretentious fluff, but it doesn't really break any new ground. It's a fun ride if you're in the mood for something light and gory, but don't expect any major surprises. Overall, it's an enjoyable film, but don't go in with sky-high expectations.

PS. I was completely convinced right until the credits rolled that Orlando Bloom was in this, but no, it was his doppelganger, Rupert Friend.

The premise of Companion isn't anything new however its execution is both charming and disturbing. It's also one of those movies where the less you know about it the better.

Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid are perfect in their respective roles. There's a lot of clever dialogue that elevates everyone's performance, gradually raising the tension at a great pace. Companion is a thriller more than it is horror movie but it goes to dark places while balancing humor to amazing effect.

The decision to contrast retro-style outfits with the modern-futuristic style of the technology and setting was a brilliant one. Costuming in general gets overlooked by many people but here it helps give Companion its own identity that fits the tone of the movie perfectly.

Companion utilizes its R-rating well too. There's a great balance of blood and violence mixed in with underlying themes of control, relationship dynamics, moral implications regarding technology, and much more. If you're looking for a dark comedy with a few surprises up its sleeve, you'll definitely want to check out Companion.

This is a surprisingly enjoyable movie with a dark comedic edge. Thought the opening gives a hint of what's to come, it starts in somewhat plodding fashion with a lakeside getaway. However, once it gets going, the twisted (and bloody) roller coaster ride is on full force. Not for everyone, but if you've enjoyed Black Mirror episodes, you'll probably like it.

$10M, 90 minute movie with good writing that is well acted. Loved it! Would happily take 20 of these over one Kraven or the 45th Indiana Jones movie, etc. Thanks New Line!

Everyone who made this movie did their job well. Great script with plenty of turns and some laughs. Casting did a great job, with Eli and Patrick in particular getting great performances. Movie was shot and directed well, edited well with some pretty minor effects that were done well. All in all just a well rounded, great effort that I hope audiences turn out for because this is the kind of movie studios should be making imo.