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Flexing some new, cool-looking Film Critic's pants to review four new movies in this week's capsule (short) movie reviews for Friday, January 31, 2025.
1) COMPANION
Drew Hancock's "Companion" is a confident, entertaining, and surprisingly funny debut feature from a filmmaker known for his work on TV shows like "Suburgatory." While the premise—a robot developing human traits and rebelling against its creator—might not be groundbreaking ("Westworld" and "Ex Machina" indeed explored similar territory), Hancock brings a fresh perspective with his tonal shifts, clever satire, and strong performances from a stellar ensemble cast.
The movie opens with a meet-cute straight out of a rom-com. Iris (Sophie Thatcher), socially awkward and endearing, bumps into Josh (Jack Quaid), who exudes quirky charm. Their chemistry is solid, and soon, we're whisked off to a remote lakeside mansion owned by a Russian hipster billionaire, Sergei (Rupert Friend), where Josh's pretentious friends have gathered for a weekend getaway.
But this isn't your average cabin-in-the-woods story. Tensions rise, allegiances shift, and then comes the first major twist: Iris discovers she's not human—she's a robot, a "companion" custom-designed by Josh to be his ideal partner.
From there, "Companion" takes off like a rollercoaster, twisting and turning through genres. At times, it's a sharp sci-fi critique of AI and humanity's hubris. At others, it's a biting satire of rom-coms, complete with hilariously exaggerated tropes.
It seamlessly morphs into a tense horror-thriller, complete with moments of gut-wrenching suspense, before veering into farce and situational comedy. The way Hancock juggles these tones without dropping the ball is genuinely impressive, showcasing a confidence that's rare for a first-time director.
One of the movie's standout elements is Sophie Thatcher. A Chicago native and an actress on a serious hot streak ("Yellowjackets," "Heretic"), Thatcher is captivating as Iris. Her performance is layered, nuanced, and full of surprising depth.
Watching her transition from a sweet, awkward girlfriend to a self-aware, vengeful android is thrilling and heartbreaking. She's the movie's emotional core, and she absolutely nails it.
Jack Quaid, as Josh, is equally compelling. He brings an affable charm that makes his eventual descent into villainy all the more chilling. He's able to balance humor, menace, and even a bit of vulnerability in a deeply engaging way. Quaid's star power is undeniable, and it's clear he's inherited a lot of his parents' (Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan) screen presence.
The supporting cast is no slouch, either. Harvey Guillén ("What We Do in the Shadows") is hilarious and endearing as Eli, one of the weekend guests. Lukas Gage ("Smile 2") delivers an unsettling and memorable performance, his character's arc providing one of the film's most shocking moments.
What sets "Companion" apart is how it revels in its unpredictability. Hancock's script is packed with twists—not just in the plot but in how the story is told. One minute, it's a heartfelt drama about identity and self-awareness. The next, it's a razor-sharp comedy lampooning relationship clichés.
Then, it's a gripping horror sequence that leaves you on the edge of your seat. These shifts could easily feel jarring, but Hancock handles them with remarkable skill, ensuring the movie remains cohesive and engaging throughout.
Visually, "Companion" is a treat. The cinematography is sharp and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the eerie isolation of the lakeside mansion. The score complements the film's many moods, enhancing the suspense, humor, and emotional beats without ever feeling overbearing.
If there's a downside to the film, it's the familiarity of its central premise. The idea of a robot becoming self-aware and rebelling against its creator is hardly new territory. But Hancock's fresh take, combined with his sharp direction and the cast's outstanding performances, ensures that the movie feels anything but stale.
This movie reminded me of "Barbarian," another twist-heavy horror film from the same producers. But where "Barbarian" felt really smug and self-aware to the point of annoyance, "Companion" is refreshingly earnest. It's a movie made by people who genuinely love what they're doing, and that enthusiasm shines through in every frame.
Ultimately, this is a very entertaining film that's as funny as it is suspenseful, as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. It's a fantastic debut for Drew Hancock, who proves himself a filmmaker to watch. - ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Let's be honest: when I sat down to see "You're Cordially Invited," I wasn't expecting much. The premise—a double-booked wedding venue that sends two bridal parties into chaotic, farcical conflict—is as tired as it gets. Weddings as a comedic battleground? Been there, done that.
But what did have me intrigued was the cast, led by the always reliable Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon, supported by a who's-who of talented comedic actors.
And honestly, the cast is this movie's saving grace. Let's start with Will Ferrell, who delivers exactly what you'd expect: big, goofy energy with a few laugh-out-loud moments. One scene involving him wrestling an alligator (yes, really) is so absurd you can't help but laugh.
Surprisingly, Reese Witherspoon holds her own in the comedy department. She's sharp, funny, and game for the movie's ridiculous antics. Together, they have a chaotic chemistry that keeps things moving, even when the script falters.
The supporting cast is packed with talent. Fortune Feimster and Jack McBrayer are standouts, each bringing their signature comedic styles to their roles. Kayla Montesoro Maisia is another highlight—her performance as the wedding planner/bridesmaid steals several scenes. Maisia has been steadily proving herself as a comedic powerhouse, and she doesn't disappoint here.
But let's not sugarcoat it: "You're Cordially Invited" is a throwaway comedy. It's predictable, often overlong, and sometimes painfully unfunny. There are sequences—like the overuse of "Islands in the Stream" (seriously, I never want to hear that song again)—that drag the movie down. By the time the credits roll and the cast awkwardly sings along to "Islands in the Stream," you'll be ready to call it a night.
Director Nicholas Stoller, whose work is hit-or-miss, doesn't quite find his groove here. This is the guy who gave us "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and "Bros"—the latter being one of the best romantic comedies of the last decade—but he also made forgettable clunkers like "Get Him to the Greek" and "Neighbors."
With "You're Cordially Invited," Stoller seems content to tread water, delivering a serviceable, if uninspired, comedy that lacks the sharpness or originality of his best work.
The movie's biggest flaw is its reliance on tired wedding comedy clichés. We've got the collapsing pier, the ruined wedding cake, and all the usual hijinks you'd expect.
While a few of these moments land, most feel like they've been recycled from a dozen other films. It's frustrating because Stoller has proven he's capable of so much more—"Bros" was fresh, smart, and heartfelt, everything this movie isn't.
That said, the movie isn't a complete disaster. There are genuine laughs to be found, thanks mostly to the talented cast. And while the movie doesn't do anything new, it's harmless enough as a streaming option. This isn't a movie you rush to theaters to see (not that you could, since it's streaming only on Prime).
Ultimately, "You're Cordially Invited" is fine. Not great, not terrible—just fine. It's a step down from the heights of "Bros," but it has its moments, thanks to the cast's comedic chops. If you're a Will Ferrell or Reese Witherspoon fan, you could do worse. Just don't expect to be wowed.
And for the love of all things holy, can we retire "Islands in the Stream" already? - ⭐️⭐️1/2
3) DOG MAN
Let me start by saying this: I'm a huge fan of Dav Pilkey's work. I know it might sound a little strange for a 59-year-old man to declare his love for a children's book series, but I've been reading Pilkey's books since my late 30s, and I unapologetically love them.
"Captain Underpants" is one of my all-time favorite series—it's silly, irreverent, unapologetically gross at times, and absolutely hilarious. So, when I heard DreamWorks Animation was bringing Pilkey's "Dog Man" to the big screen, I was ready for the weird and wonderful ride that only Pilkey's sensibility can deliver. And I'm happy to report that "Dog Man" doesn't disappoint.
Based on the beloved graphic novel series, "Dog Man" tells the story of how a police officer named Knight and his dog Greg are fused after a life-saving surgery goes hilariously wrong, creating the titular Dog Man—a hybrid of man and dog who's equal parts heroic and clueless.
As Dog Man tries to protect and serve, he faces off against the mischievous feline Petey the Cat. But the dynamic changes with the arrival of Li’l Petey, adding heart and a layer of complexity to what could've been just another wacky superhero story.
The film, directed and written by Peter Hastings, brings Pilkey's signature humor and absurdity to life in a way that feels true to the spirit of the books. Hastings, who also worked on "The Epic Tales of Captain Underpants" series, clearly understands Pilkey's world, and his attention to detail shines through in the animation and comedic timing.
He even provides the vocal effects for Dog Man, capturing the perfect mix of goofy and lovable. The voice cast here is stacked, and they absolutely deliver. Pete Davidson is fantastic, lending his unique comedic energy to the role, while Isla Fisher, Ricky Gervais, Stephen Root, and Lil Rel Howery all bring their A-game.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with appearances from Cheri Oteri, Lorraine Newman, Melissa Villaseñor, and Kate Micucci, adding depth and humor to the film. DreamWorks Animation really brought together an incredible group of comedic talent, and it shows in every scene.
Now, DreamWorks Animation is a bit hit-or-miss. They've had some great movies, and some that are...well, let's just say not-so-great. But "Dog Man" is definitely one of their better efforts. It's not Pixar-level brilliance, but it doesn't need to be. This movie knows exactly what it is—fun, silly, and thoroughly entertaining.
What I really love about this movie is how it captures Pilkey's unique sense of humor. His work is unapologetically goofy, with just the right amount of gross-out comedy to keep kids laughing while also making adults chuckle. The animation style stays true to Pilkey's art, giving the film a playful and quirky visual identity. It's vibrant, expressive, and ideally suited to the wacky world of Dog Man.
Sure, this is a movie aimed at kids, but I had a blast watching it. It's funny, clever, and packed with enough heart to keep the story engaging. The film's charm lies in its humor, characters, and the sheer joy of watching something so wonderfully weird. I left the theater smiling; honestly, that's all you can ask for from a movie like this. - ⭐️⭐️⭐️
4) LOVE ME
How do you even begin to describe a movie like "Love Me?" It's a post-apocalyptic love story between a buoy and a satellite, voiced and partially embodied by Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun. Yes, you read that right. The premise alone is so audacious and absurd that it feels like a dare.
But credit where it's due—Sam and Andy Zuchero's feature debut turns this ridiculous idea into something strangely moving, visually arresting, and entirely unlike anything else.
The story unfolds in a world where humanity is long gone, leaving behind two lonely entities—a satellite and a buoy—floating in their respective domains of space and sea. Through the magic of technology, the two "meet" and begin to communicate.
What starts as a curious connection blossoms into a romance that challenges everything we think we know about love, sentience, and identity. Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun bring these inanimate objects to life with their voices and, in certain sequences, as human avatars that represent the emotions and consciousness of their AI characters.
Let's address the elephant in the room: This movie is weird—like, really weird. It's one thing to conceptualize a love story between a buoy and a satellite; it's another to pull it off.
But the Zuchero brothers lean into the absurdity with gusto, using a mix of stunning visuals, heartfelt performances, and a script oscillating between the poetic and the downright bizarre. It's a bold choice for a first feature, and while the execution isn't flawless, it's undeniably original.
Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun are the heart and soul of this film. Stewart plays Me (also referred to as Deja), while Yeun portrays Iam (or Liam). Despite the characters being AI representations of a buoy and a satellite, the chemistry between Stewart and Yeun is palpable.
Their interactions, whether as their inanimate forms or their human avatars, are filled with longing, vulnerability, and humor. Stewart, as always, brings an intensity to her performance that grounds even the most outlandish moments. Yeun's charm and emotional range shine through, creating a dynamic that feels both believable and deeply affecting.
The film isn't without its flaws. In their directorial debut, the Zucheros rely too heavily on hyperactive editing and frenetic visuals, which can feel overwhelming. It's like they couldn't quite trust the story's quieter, more contemplative moments to stand on their own, so they cranked up the sensory overload.
At times, the movie seems to be experiencing an identity crisis, jumping from meditative sci-fi to frenetic romance without always staying on its feet.
And then there's that scene. Without giving too much away, "Love Me" features one of the strangest sex scenes I've ever seen in a movie. It's a moment so bizarre and audacious that you can't help but admire the filmmakers for going there.
Whether it works or not is debatable, but it's certainly memorable. It speaks to the movie's willingness to push boundaries and embrace its weirdness.
While the themes of AI, sentience, and love have been explored in other, arguably better films ("Her" and "Ex Machina" come to mind), "Love Me" carves out its own unique niche. It's not trying to be polished or universally accessible. Instead, it revels in its oddball charm and makes no apologies for being unlike anything else.
Ultimately, this movie demands admiration for its sheer audacity, even if it doesn't quite reach greatness. It's messy, flawed, and often downright strange, but it's also deeply original and surprisingly heartfelt. If you're tired of formulaic blockbusters and looking for something truly unique, this is the movie for you.
It's a love story for the post-apocalyptic age, brought to life by two of the best actors working today. Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun elevate the material, making you care about a buoy and a satellite in a way you never thought possible.
So, is it a perfect movie? No. But is it worth seeing? Absolutely. If nothing else, you'll walk away knowing you've seen something truly original. And in today's world of reboots and sequels, that's worth celebrating. "Love Me" may not be flawless, but it's a one-of-a-kind experience that sticks with you long after the credits roll. - ⭐️⭐️⭐️
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