‘Companion’ review: Dir. Drew Hancock (2025)

Ever since the teaser launched back in October 2024, audience’s have been very curious about Drew Hancock’s Companion. Starring Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher, Companion sees couple Josh (Quaid) and Iris (Thatcher) journey to an isolated property to party with some friends. The couple appear smitten, but it doesn’t take long for the cracks to begin to show and, soon after, Iris is left fighting for her freedom. 

Present in big glaring lettering during Companion’s trailer was the quote “from the unhinged minds of Barbarian.” This wording is sure to hook in an audience, but its inclusion also encourages the viewer to look for details and hints as to the nature of the film. Barbarian became known for its series of shocking reveals, and whilst not as intense in Companion, there are plenty of rug pulls . For the ultimate viewing experience, it is recommended to purge the trailer and marketing materials from your mind before settling in for a screening. That being said, these moments are not as impactful as Barbarian and media savvy audience members will figure out Companion’s trajectory pretty quickly. 

Whether going in blind or already informed, nothing stops Companion from being a thoroughly enjoyable watch. Despite dealing with some heavy issues surrounding toxic masculinity, gaslighting, and autonomy, Companion has an easy, breezy, beautiful tone and pace. As in Zach Cregger’s Barbarian, although dark in content, Companion is also a riot of laughs, and is far more likely to have your lungs aching from laughter than from screaming. It’s a move that works well, as aspects of Companion’s plot have been played out in more serious ways before and the tonal shift enables it to retain some of its originality. Companion is also just a lot of fun to see unfold, the cast appear to be having a good time and that is infectious. 

Yellowjackets already know how talented Sophie Thatcher is, but as Iris she excels. Although good in everything she has starred in, the spotlight has never been on her quite this much; she is stunning as Iris. Starting meek and mouse-like, her journey through the film sees her build up her confidence and courage. By the climax she is a bad-ass who the audience are rooting for. Thatcher’s ability to flit between vulnerable and warrior queen is heavily relied upon, but the result is a strong female character whose story young girls can learn from. 

Opposite Thatcher is Jack Quaid, an actor who, unlike his peers who opt to stick to playing either heroes or villains, enjoys playing both sides. Having recently played an evil Ghostface in Scream and then dorkish Hughie in The Boys, Quaid is perfect for the role of Josh. Initially appearing as the dream boyfriend, Josh is revealed to not be the man that Iris was told, which complicates their relationship a great deal. The interplay between Quaid and Thatcher is incredible, as is the chemistry of the entire ensemble. Each cast member gets their little line or moment to shine, with the pairing of Lukas Gage and Harvey Guillén almost stealing the film right from under Thatcher and Quaid. 

With a pastel color palette to offset the bloody violence, Companion visually conjures up the concept of Stepford Wives meets Robocop. It’s an odd combination, but one that, when met with whip sharp dialogue from the most sharp-tongued teen comedy, works to create an artificial world that crosses genre and generational divides, ensuring maximum pleasure for all. 

Companion is in cinemas now.