Movie Review: COMPANION
by Ray Schillaci
The Movie Guys
Here is my conundrum – when reviewing a movie, one should avoid all trailers, reviews, and synopses…so you may be as completely caught off guard and thrilled as I was with Companion . Then there is the clever marketing ploy announcing that Companion was by the people that brought us the beloved romantic epic The Notebook and the evil minds that gave horror hounds something to howl about, Barbarian . This announcement had 'WTF' all over it, and writer/director Drew Hancock had me uttering that to myself as his film meticulously unraveled to an unexpected climax.
It helps that our two leads Jack Quaid (The Boys, The Hunger Games) and Sophie Thatcher (Heretic, Yellowjackets) are so damn likable. Together they practically make the most romantic couple since When Harry Met Sally . But, when the two of them decide on a getaway with friends (at a remote cabin), you can't help but feel something could easily go awry. To say any more would be a disservice to the potential viewer.
What can be said is that Sydney Sweeney may have her crown as the 'new It girl' handed over to the utterly charming Sophie Thatcher. After delivering a riveting, dramatic performance in Heretic , Thatcher proves her comedic skills (dark as they may be) in Companion . She easily caught me off guard with her unique smile and wholesome look, but there's a complex mindset she also brings to the table.
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On the other hand, Jack Quaid easily slips into the role of the awkward and funny boyfriend until he demonstrates a darker side. His range goes from sympathetic to devious and pathetic. Kudos must go out to both leads for bringing everything they do to the table. It is within the chemistry of the two that writer/director Drew Hancock can work his magic.
Hancock exudes romantic notions with such ease that anything going against this couple is jarring, to say the least. He not only plays the two leads as if they were masterful chess maneuvers, but also includes the other players as well, making the film both funny and shocking. Needless to say, once everything is revealed, the film bears repeat viewing, just to catch what you might have missed.
Visually, this is a lovely 4K presentation with a great attention to detail. You have this beautiful house deep in the woods with a stunning view of the lake. Colors are vibrant on the outside. Inside, the color palette tends to be warm and inviting, which almost gives you a carefree feeling. For a fairly 'low-budget' movie, $10 million, the film has very few effects. The great part about that is writer/director Hancock relies on his storytelling and his actors rather than relying on CGI.
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Sound-wise, this is a subtle mix with not a lot of bangs and whistles. But, there is a great foreboding sense within the remote area. The Dolby Atmos sound provides a great sense of tension during a few important scenes. This is not an action film, the dialogue is the key and it remains crystal clear. It's not a disc where you'd be referencing the advantages of what 4K can provide, but it suits its purpose.
Where are the bonus features, Warner Home Video? We get less than fifteen minutes' worth sans a gag reel, which would have been a lot of fun. Aside from that bit of disappointment, the company has decided not to include a Blu-ray with the 4K or a Blu-ray with a DVD. Sad day for some physical medium fans. But a digital download is included.
As far as the story itself, have I said too much? I hope not. Because, as mentioned, Companion should be enjoyed with as little knowledge about it as possible. The 'R' rating at least gives enough of a warning that this is not a family-friendly affair. But, it is a film I highly recommend watching with (discerning) family and friends.
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Lowest price – 4K – $27.95, Blu-ray – $22.95 at Amazon & Walmart
Companion is also available for streaming.
Visit Ray's blog at themonsterinmyhead.com
Directed by: Drew Hancock Release Date: January 31, 2025 Run Time: 97 Minutes Rated: R Country: U.S.A.
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures
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