‘Companion’ Stars Sophie Thatcher & Jack Quaid Talk Bots, ‘Boys,’ & Billy Joel [Interview]

“It’s so cool what you don’t know while shooting a film versus what you discover when you see it,” says Jack Quaid, as he and co-star Sophie Thatcher sat down with us to discuss their work on Drew Hancock’s directorial debut, “Companion.” Quaid and Thatcher star, respectively, as Josh and Iris as they embark on a weekend getaway among friends at a remote cabin, which unravels into chaos after it’s revealed that one of the guests is an accompaniment robot.

READ MORE: The 100 Most Anticipated Films Of 2025 

Quaid is best known for his darkly comedic work on “The Boys,” as well as his voice work in the Star Trek canon on “Lower Decks,” while Thatcher has had a resoundingly successful run as Natalie on Showtime’s “Yellowjackets,” while also becoming one of horror cinema’s dominant faces thanks to starring roles in films such as “Boogeyman” and “Heretic.” “I think there’s a lot of fun to be had with horror,” says Thatcher. “We’re playing with real-life themes that are already horror movies in and of themselves, and it’s fun to play in heightened circumstances.”

Thatcher, a trained musician, always creates a playlist for her characters, citing the importance of finding character through music, and Iris was no exception. Quaid also made a playlist for Josh, and “that was one of the first things we bonded over,” according to Thatcher. “Mine’s a lot of ’80s ballads,” says Quaid. “I think Josh thinks he’s John Cusack. The lyrics don’t match the character so much as the romantic feeling of the song.” Thatcher also got involved with Iris’ wardrobe. “I always do a Pinterest board,” says Thatcher. “I have strong visual ideas, and I knew Iris couldn’t just be the girl next door. I imagined what Josh wanted, that he’s a filmbro who saw her in older movies. It’s a very ’60s, very classic look. Then she finds her own wardrobe, and it changes.”

Both actors praised first-time director Hancock for his approach to collaboration, especially in how he communicates with actors. “You have to be willing to be collaborative as a director,” says Quaid. “‘My way or the highway’ is a valid way of working, but I love it when someone is willing to have deep conversations about a character. Drew has so much empathy for actors.” Thatcher adds, “he trusts us, which makes us feel more confident. You need that going in, or you’re just constantly seeking validation and can’t give your full performance.” As far as what makes for good directing? “I just want them to be open to everyone’s perspective,” says Thatcher. “I echo that. It’s tough when someone isn’t willing to collaborate,” says Quaid. “You feel like a prop being moved around.”

While watching “Companion,” or this interview, it’s immediately apparent that Thatcher and Quaid have radiant on-screen chemistry. When asked what he looks for in a scene partner, Quaid muses, “I look for Sophie Thatcher.” Thatcher, in turn, praised Quaid, saying that “he’s so present and down for anything,” Quaid again echoed her sentiment. “I feel the same way about you.” But it’s not necessarily just some magic thing that materializes on set. “All chemistry is two people who are willing to listen to one another,” says Quaid. “I’m a fan of everyone in this movie; there’s such a level of respect, and Sophie is no exception.”

Support independent movie journalism to keep it alive. Sign up for The Playlist Newsletter. All the content you want and, oh, right, it’s free.

Check out our full interview with Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher below, where we also talk about the morals of technological advancement, the catharsis of horror in troubling times, how Quaid’s improvisation led to Billy Joel’s inclusion in “The Boys,” and more!

“Companion” arrives in theatres on January 31st via Warner Bros.