Drew Hancock’s Companion (2025) blends dark comedy with psychological thriller elements, offering a unique take on the classic cabin-in-the-woods premise. Featuring a talented ensemble cast, striking cinematography by Eli Born, and a haunting score by Hrishikesh Hirway, the film delivers an unsettling yet unexpectedly humorous experience.

At its core, Companion explores themes of identity, trust, and the fine line between humanity and artificial intelligence. A group of friends embarks on what seems to be an ordinary getaway, only for tensions to mount when one of them is revealed to be a robot companion. What starts as an uncomfortable revelation soon spirals into paranoia, manipulation, and existential dread, all underscored by dark humour.

The film skilfully balances psychological tension with moments of absurd comedy. Rather than relying on traditional horror tropes or jump scares, Companion builds its suspense through character dynamics and shifting perceptions of reality, keeping audiences engaged throughout.

Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid lead the cast with compelling performances, capturing the group’s mounting unease. Lukas Gage and Megan Suri provide strong support, while Harvey Guillén’s comedic timing adds a natural levity without disrupting the film’s atmosphere. Rupert Friend brings an eerie intensity to the story, and Jaboukie Young-White delivers some of the film’s most memorable moments, blending humour with genuine tension.

Eli Born’s cinematography enhances the film’s unsettling tone, making use of shadowy interiors and expansive landscapes to create an atmosphere of isolation. The remote cabin setting feels both picturesque and claustrophobic, reinforcing the film’s themes of entrapment and paranoia. Hrishikesh Hirway’s score is equally effective, weaving eerie electronic elements with strategic silence to heighten the film’s suspense.

While Companion may not entirely reinvent the psychological thriller genre, its darkly comedic edge and strong performances make it a standout entry. The film’s ability to balance tension with satire results in a thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining experience.

For those who enjoy psychological thrillers with a sharp, satirical bite, Companion is well worth a watch—both unsettling and darkly funny in equal measure.