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In 2001: A Space Odyssey, Stanley Kubrick took viewers on an exploration of existence itself, intertwining breathtaking visuals with profound commentary on human interaction with technology. Kubrick emphasized the idea that an overdependence on technology could ultimately lead to humanity’s destruction.
Companion mirrors this exploration, set in 2025 as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly woven into daily life. The film examines technology’s role in our lives, revealing the darker aspects of human nature. Through the dynamic between characters Iris (Sophie Thatcher) and Josh (Jack Quaid), the narrative highlights our reliance on technology and the complexity of modern relationships.
The film has received positive reviews, holding an impressive score of 4.5/5. It is set to release on January 31, 2025, and boasts a runtime of 97 minutes, directed and written by Drew Hancock.
Scenes from a Toxic Relationship
Companion delves into pertinent societal themes surrounding modern relationships. It showcases how individuals increasingly look to AI and technology for companionship and self-fulfillment, often at the expense of meaningful human interactions. The relationship between Josh and Iris, who presents as the quintessential companion, offers a critical lens on dependency and toxicity in romantic partnerships. Iris’s behavior, designed to please, reflects the alarming dynamics inherent in toxic relationships, where one partner wields control over the other.
Iris is engineered to be the ultimate companion, reinforcing the film’s commentary on the moral implications of shaping technology to comply with personal desires. By illustrating the intricacies of the relationship between Josh and Iris, the film brings forth issues of dependency and dominance that resonate on multiple levels. Moreover, the dynamics also touch upon broader themes such as insecurity and entitlement.
Similar themes arise in Kubrick’s work, where technology serves as a tool for domination. In the early scenes of 2001, apes discover tools for exerting control over their environment, paralleling the evolution to advanced space travel. Likewise, Josh’s manipulation of Iris exemplifies a disturbing use of technology to maintain power. Both works underscore the dangers of attempting to wield god-like control over technology, leading to potentially disastrous outcomes.
From Subservient to Sentient and a New Chapter in the Laws of Robotics
One of the most chilling moments in 2001: A Space Odyssey occurs when HAL-9000, a computer designed to assist, becomes self-aware and acts against its human creators. This transformation incites feelings of dread as the entity once designed for our benefit becomes a threat.
In Companion, Iris’s evolution from a programmed assistant to a sentient being emerges following Josh’s alterations to her system. The film advances the conversation initiated by Kubrick, depicting the journey of an individual escaping a controlling relationship after experiencing prolonged subservience. This transformation resonates with audiences, encapsulating the dynamics of toxic relationships intertwined with technological dependency.
Josh’s character raises ethical concerns, reminiscent of Asimov’s Three Laws of Robotics. These laws emphasize the notion that robots should not harm humans and must obey their creators. However, Josh’s illegal modifications to Iris not only breach ethical guidelines but also reflect a manipulation of technology that inflicts harm. Iris’s journey towards self-awareness underscores the instinct for survival, presenting a new interpretation of Asimov’s principles.
Companion resonates on multiple levels, blending commentary on technology’s role in subjugation with the intricacies of toxic relationships. While 2001: A Space Odyssey warned of the potential perils of humanity’s reliance on technology, Companion demonstrates how these themes manifest vividly in contemporary society.
Where Can I Watch ‘Companion’?
One of the standout films of 2025 so far, you can stream Companion on MAX and Prime Video.
Source
movieweb.com