As always, I find myself writing reviews for this kind of movie wanting to gush about the plot and twists and the journey each character takes. And I find myself holding back, I only saw the early teaser trailer going in, and that is all I recommend. This type of movie really shines brightest with as little as possible known about it. This all being said, I know that a second watch will be super enjoyable, to see the breadcrumb trails and follow them knowing where they will lead. 

 

Companion is about a group of friends who are spending a weekend away at a remote cabin in the woods. Unfortunately during this weekend of good food, dancing, drinking etc, a companionship android goes haywire, resulting in a bloody time.

 

While there is violence, it really does lean a bit more into a black comedy than a horror. Despite the tagline brag about Companion having the same creators as Barbarian, it is not as grim or horrible. Rather, I’d call Companion more girly pop, we have cute outfits, fun music, a little vintage feel mixed with sci-fi and an appropriate amount of blood.

 

The stunning location of a beautiful lakeside property briefly toys with the classic “cabin in the woods” and dread of isolation, but it’s brushed aside with modern technology and not the real cause of the uncomfortable feelings you may have watching this film. That comes from the men. The casting is tight, Sophie Thatcher is a dream to watch, everyone owns their role and plays beautiful yet terrible people. 

 

As how Black Mirror always comes with a little moral attached, and Companion is no different. And while it does have a message about androids/AI and how men treat women - which is something we are currently living, it’s not preachy, and doesn’t get bogged down with a heavy hand on the ethics lesson. It’s a fun film, wicked and satisfying to watch. Take your girls on Galentine’s, take your date for Valentine’s. 

 

You won’t need to “act happy”, Companion is a thoroughly enjoyable watch.