Companion is an upcoming American science fiction psychological thriller that delves into a unique and unsettling relationship dynamic, with hints of rebellion and control in a futuristic setting. Written and directed by Drew Hancock, it is scheduled for release on January 31, 2025. The movie, presented by Warner Bros. Pictures, is set to be available in IMAX.
Backed by the creative team behind Barbarian, including producers Zach Cregger, Raphael Margules, J.D. Lifshitz, and Roy Lee, Companion signals Hancock's debut as a feature film director. The approach and themes suggest that the film aims to intrigue audiences with a dark, complex exploration of human emotions and technological implications.
The movie is set to hit theaters in the United States on January 31, 2025. Initially planned for a January 10 release, it was later rescheduled to its current date. This shift positions the movie in a time frame that has recently proven successful for thriller films, such as Scream (2022) and M3GAN (2023).
Alongside its theatrical release, it will also be available in IMAX, promising a visually immersive experience for audiences.
While the trailers are still limited in what they reveal, they provide glimpses into a chilling narrative. Jack Quaid's character appears to wield control over Sophie Thatcher, suggesting she might be an android or a technologically enhanced companion. The footage hints at unsettling power dynamics and psychological tension, culminating in moments of rebellion from Thatcher's character.
While details about the plot remain a secret, the tagline by the production house, New Line Cinema, reads:
“You are cordially invited to experience a new kind of love story.”
However, the trailers suggest a narrative that explores themes of control, dependence, and autonomy within a futuristic relationship.
Jack Quaid plays Josh, a character who appears to exert control over Iris, who is portrayed by Sophie Thatcher. Iris's nature as an android or artificial companion adds a layer of complexity to their dynamic, presenting questions about agency, ethics, and the boundaries of human relationships in a technologically advanced world.
As the story unfolds, Iris seems to push back against her programmed role, leading to a potentially volatile conflict.
The movie features an ensemble cast led by Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher. Quaid, known for his roles in The Boys, Oppenheimer, and Scream (2022), portrays Josh, a character central to the film's psychological tension.
Sophie Thatcher, recognized for her performances in Yellowjackets and The Bogeyman, plays Iris, whose role as a controlled companion brings a unique depth to the story.
The supporting cast includes:
The idea for the movie originated in February 2023 when it was reported that Drew Hancock would both write and direct the film, marking his feature film debut, as per a report by Deadline. Casting began in May 2023, with Jack Quaid announced as the lead. Additional casting followed in June 2023, with Sophie Thatcher, Lukas Gage, Megan Suri, Harvey Guillén, and Rupert Friend joining the project.
Fans can watch Companion, scheduled for release in theaters on January 31, 2025