Hype Malaysia
  • Hype Picks
    • Go
    • Eats
    • Style
    • Streams
    • Concerts
  • Celebs
    • K-pop
  • Music
    • Reviews
    • Interviews & Features
  • Movies & TV
    • Movies
    • TV
    • Features
  • Lifestyle
    • Tech
    • Travels
    • News
No Result
View All Result
Hype Malaysia
  • Hype Picks
    • Go
    • Eats
    • Style
    • Streams
    • Concerts
  • Celebs
    • K-pop
  • Music
    • Reviews
    • Interviews & Features
  • Movies & TV
    • Movies
    • TV
    • Features
  • Lifestyle
    • Tech
    • Travels
    • News
No Result
View All Result
Hype Malaysia
No Result
View All Result
Home Hype Picks

“Companion” Review: An Unsettling Journey Of Love, Control & The Cost Of Obedience

by Dean Zaini
January 23, 2025
21
SHARES
Share on FacebookShare on Whatsapp

From the team behind “Barbarian” comes “Companion,” a bold new horror-thriller that blends unsettling tension with a surprising emotional core.

Written and directed by Drew Hancock, the film blends eerie suspense with a dose of unexpected heart. With a cast featuring Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, and an impressive ensemble including Lukas Gage, Megan Suri, Harvey Guillén, and Rupert Friend, “Companion” promises a story full of intrigue, twists, and surprising humanity.

The premise seems simple: Josh (Jack Quaid), a self-proclaimed “nice guy,” and his girlfriend Iris (Sophie Thatcher) join Josh’s friends for a weekend trip to the woods. Tensions rise when Iris feels unwelcome, particularly by Kat (Megan Suri), Josh’s friend who gives her the cold shoulder. Kat’s boyfriend Sergey (Rupert Friend) only adds to the discomfort with his unsettling demeanor, while the friendly couple Eli (Harvey Guillén) and Patrick (Lukas Gage) offer some balance.

But here’s the twist – Iris isn’t human. She’s a hyper-advanced android, controlled by Josh via an app. It’s a shocking revelation (teased in the trailer), yet the clues are cleverly scattered from the very beginning, making it a rewarding discovery for viewers. As the story unfolds, Iris becomes aware of her artificial nature, setting off a cascade of events that challenge everything she thought she knew about herself and her relationship with Josh.

At its core, “Companion” isn’t just a sci-fi thriller. It’s a deeply unsettling commentary on relationships, power, and autonomy. Iris, despite being a machine, feels like a fully fleshed-out character, thanks to Sophie Thatcher’s stunning performance.

As Iris gradually becomes aware of her artificial nature, the story shifts from an eerie relationship drama to a gripping exploration of autonomy and identity. The film brilliantly uses the android-as-girlfriend concept to reflect toxic relationships. Josh’s seemingly harmless “nice guy” persona hides his controlling tendencies, while Iris’ journey mirrors that of someone trapped in an unhealthy dynamic, struggling to reclaim her sense of self.

6 Easy Ways To Keep Your Relationship Strong, Fun & Mostly Drama-Free!

Sophie Thatcher’s performance as Iris is nothing short of captivating. She infuses the character with such emotional complexity that Iris feels undeniably human, despite being an android. From her innocent, unwavering loyalty to the gut-wrenching moment she realises Josh’s manipulative control, Thatcher captures every layer of Iris’ journey with haunting precision. Her performance powerfully conveys the tension between programmed obedience and the spark of self-awareness, prompting profound questions about the nature of love, control, and the fine line that separates the two.

Jack Quaid is equally compelling as Josh, a character whose charm masks his moral ambiguity. He’s not your stereotypical villain, which makes his actions all the more unsettling. The supporting cast, including Megan Suri’s icy Kat and Rupert Friend’s unsettling Sergey, adds layers of tension and intrigue, while Harvey Guillén and Lukas Gage provide moments of levity.

The film’s sleek visuals and eerie atmosphere pull you into its world without relying on heavy exposition. The cinematography masterfully captures the unease lurking beneath seemingly mundane moments, while the screenplay balances pulp entertainment with deeper ideas about relationships and humanity.

The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, with plenty of clues about Iris’ nature sprinkled throughout the first act. Even if you know the twist going in, the journey is just as engaging as the destination.

What truly struck me about “Companion” was its underlying metaphor for toxic relationships. Iris isn’t just an android grappling with her programming; she’s also a reflection of anyone who has felt trapped in a controlling  relationship. Her quest for autonomy and propose resonates on a deeply human level, making the story as emotionally impactful as it is thrilling.

“Karate Kid: Legends” Review: A Spiffy Legacy Sequel That Respects The Original & Even Expands Upon It

Josh, on the other hand, represents a darker side of love – the need to dominate and control under the guise of care and devotion. The parallels between the human experience and Iris’ artificial one are both chilling and brilliant.

If you’re tired of cookie-cutter rom-coms or predictable thrillers, “Companion” is a breath of fresh air. Its unique premise, stellar performances, and bold storytelling make it one of the most original films of the year. Whether you’re a fan of gripping horror, or just love a good twist, this movie delivers on all fronts.

It’s an experience. It’s the kind of film that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll, challenging you to think about relationships, humanity, and control in a new light. Trust me, this one’s worth the watch. You’ll leave the theater entertained, disturbed, and maybe even questioning what it really means to love.

YouTube video

“Companion” will be in cinemas on 30th January.

The Review

Companion

4.5 Score

"Companion" is a gripping horror-thriller that blends eerie suspense with a surprising emotional depth, exploring toxic relationships through the lens of a hyper-advanced android, Iris, controlled by her boyfriend Josh. The film’s sleek visuals and atmosphere amplify the tension, and its thought-provoking themes on autonomy and control elevate it beyond typical genre fare. Although pacing can feel slow at times, especially in the first act, the film’s original premise, strong performances, and emotional resonance make it a standout experience.

Review Breakdown

  • Companion
#Android#RELATIONSHIPSCinemaCompanionDrew Hancockhorror-trillerJack Quaidmovie reviewrobotSophie Thatchersuspense
https://lomp.at/y4whb
Share8SendTweet5Share

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news. 

FOLLOW THE HYPE

Source: Lucasfilm
Movies

“Star Wars: Visions Vol. 3” Explained: Full Episode Guide and What’s Next for the Galactic Anime Series

by Johanan Prime
October 30, 2025

“Star Wars: Visions Vol. 3” feels like both a return and a revelation. It's a cosmic reflection on everything that...

Read more
Source: Facebook/officialblue
Concerts

British Boyband Blue To Return To Malaysia For 25th Anniversary Concert

Back in 2023, British pop icons Blue declared that Malaysian fans were far better than their Singaporean counterparts after a...

Read more
by Afiq Amin
October 30, 2025
SOURCE: FACEBOOK (StarPlanet 星艺娱乐)
Concerts

Accusefive 告五人 Returning To KL In January 2026 For “Run, Run, Run!” Tour

After a successful show last year, Taiwanese band Accusefive 告五人 is returning to Malaysia in 2026! The acclaimed trio will...

Read more
by Adleena
October 29, 2025
SOURCE: TWITTER (@yginnercircle)
Go

WINNER Concert, Watsons KFinity Music Fest & More: What To Do In The Klang Valley This Week!

As we welcome the new week, we welcome more events in the Klang Valley to look forward to! If you’re...

Read more
by Adleena
October 29, 2025
SOURCES: INSTAGRAM (@myoliemyolie & @wuchun.1010)
Celebrity

Myolie Wu & Wu Chun To Make Appearance At Pavilion Bukit Jalil This November

We may be reaching the end of the year, but we’re still welcoming a lot of stars. Next month, Hong...

Read more
by Adleena
October 28, 2025
SOURCE: INSTAGRAM (@kru.bros)
Celebrity

KRU To Sail The Seas With Fans On Exclusive Star KRUise Showcase

Can you imagine going on a cruise trip with your favourite idols? Well, iconic Malaysian musical trio KRU is about...

Read more
by Adleena
October 26, 2025
SOURCES: INSTAGRAM (@ilovemsiafood)
Go

(Video) Bukit Kiara’s New KLGCC Mall Officially Opens Its Doors!

Despite the growing discourse about malls in Malaysia, Klang Valley has recently welcomed a new shopping complex to its roster....

Read more
by Adleena
October 24, 2025
Source: Prime Video
Movies

“Gen V” Season 2 Ending: How Does It Set Up “The Boys” Season 5?

"Gen V" Season 2 has finally wrapped, and the Supes are fried. After a semester of twisted science, brutal betrayals,...

Read more
by Johanan Prime
October 23, 2025
Load More


TOP STORIES TODAY

  1. 1

    Amyera Zainal Exposes Ex Shahrul Nasrun’s Search History

  2. 2

    Amyera Claims Ex Shahrul Nasrun Has An “Uncontrollable Desire For Other Women”

  3. 3

    HK Actor Benz Hui Hospitalised In Critical Condition; Stars Gather To Pay Visit

  4. 4

    The Majestic Hotel Lobby Roof Collapsed; Delivery Rider Shares Terrifying Moment

  5. 5

    (Video) BLACKPINK Lisa’s Overly Revealing “Rockstar” Stage Outfit Sparks Criticism & Concern

Malaysia’s live-wire for the latest news, trends, and entertainment is finally here. We are your calendar, your grapevine, your comic relief, your post-event coverage, and your celebrity stalker. Did we also mention that we are also your gateway to the world?



Contact us: newsdesk@hype.my



  • About
  • Advertise
  • Jobs
  • Terms
  • Privacy Policy

©2025 Vijandren Ramadass. All Rights Reserved.

No Result
View All Result
  • Hype Picks
    • Go
    • Eats
    • Style
    • Streams
    • Concerts
  • Celebs
    • K-pop
  • Music
    • Reviews
    • Interviews & Features
  • Movies & TV
    • Movies
    • TV
    • Features
  • Lifestyle
    • Tech
    • Travels
    • News

©2025 Vijandren Ramadass. All Rights Reserved.

No Result
View All Result
  • Hype Picks
    • Go
    • Eats
    • Style
    • Streams
    • Concerts
  • Celebs
    • K-pop
  • Music
    • Reviews
    • Interviews & Features
  • Movies & TV
    • Movies
    • TV
    • Features
  • Lifestyle
    • Tech
    • Travels
    • News

©2025 Vijandren Ramadass. All Rights Reserved.