Lukas Gage, the 29-year-old actor known for his diverse roles across genres, stars in the AI-horror comedy Companion. The film follows a group of friends whose weekend getaway turns sinister when one reveals his robotic girlfriend’s true nature. Gage’s character, Patrick, seemingly an innocent bystander with his partner, becomes entangled in the ensuing chaos. Companion, from the creators of Barbarian, delves into complex themes of love, abuse, and the potential dangers of unchecked AI advancement. While the premise may appear straightforward, the film’s narrative is anything but, offering unexpected twists and an emotionally resonant exploration of human-technology relationships.
Gage’s career trajectory has seen a shift from young adult dramas like Tagged, Veronica Mars, and Euphoria towards more mature roles in psychological thrillers, including Companion, White Lotus, You, and the upcoming Smile 2. This transition reflects his intentional pursuit of projects with depth and meaningful narratives. Though he embraces the emerging "Scream King" moniker, Gage prioritizes stories with substance, regardless of genre. His affinity for darker narratives connects to a lifelong fascination with horror, evident in his childhood zombie movie productions. However, this doesn’t preclude him from exploring other genres, as demonstrated by his involvement in the romantic comedy People We Meet on Vacation. This versatility underscores his commitment to challenging roles and engaging storytelling.
In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Gage discussed his approach to Companion, revealing a preference for experiencing narratives unspoiled. He avoids knowing the ending beforehand, emphasizing the importance of entering a story blind. One of the film’s significant twists involves Gage’s character, Patrick, being revealed as a robot. This revelation, however, doesn’t alter Patrick’s core intentions or motivations, highlighting the film’s nuanced portrayal of AI. Gage approached the role with an open mind, drawing inspiration from Ex Machina and aiming to treat Patrick with the same respect as a human character. He focused on modulating Patrick’s programming in response to external manipulations, rather than portraying him through preconceived notions of artificial intelligence. This approach imbued Patrick with a genuine emotional depth, further blurring the lines between human and machine.
Gage’s character development process often involves meticulous attention to detail, including wardrobe and scent. For Patrick, he collaborated with the makeup artist to design a full sleeve of culinary-themed tattoos, reflecting the character’s background. He also insisted on wearing an apron, despite initial resistance from the production team, believing it essential to Patrick’s identity. These seemingly small choices contribute to a fully realized character, adding layers of authenticity and depth.
Companion invites viewers to consider the evolving relationship between humans and AI, prompting reflection on empathy, abuse, and the potential for both positive and negative consequences of technological advancement. While the film serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of AI, it also emphasizes the importance of treating technology with respect. Gage expresses his hope that the film will remind audiences to be more human, fostering empathy and connection among individuals. Beyond its thought-provoking themes, Companion also aims to provide an entertaining and escapist experience, offering a thrilling ride amidst the current complexities of the world.
Beyond the overarching themes of AI and technology, Companion also touches on toxic relationships and empowerment. Gage hopes the film will serve as a learning experience, encouraging viewers to recognize and reject controlling dynamics in their own lives. He praises Jack Quaid’s portrayal of the film’s antagonist, emphasizing the actor’s compelling performance as a villain. While Gage admits to being wary of the rapid advancements in AI, particularly its potential misuse in creative fields, he acknowledges the possibility of positive applications. He emphasizes the importance of cautious and ethical implementation of AI technology.
Gage’s evolving career reflects a conscious choice to engage with projects that resonate with him creatively, regardless of genre. His affinity for horror stems from a childhood fascination with the genre, further solidifying his "Scream King" persona. However, his willingness to explore diverse roles, from the Cat King in Dead Boy Detectives to a bouncer in the Roadhouse remake, demonstrates his range and adaptability as an actor. Beyond his on-screen presence, Gage is known for his outspoken personality and willingness to engage with public discourse. While acknowledging the potential drawbacks of oversharing, he embraces authenticity and honesty, preferring to be open rather than concealing aspects of himself. This candid approach contributes to his unique persona in Hollywood, where maintaining a sense of mystery is often prioritized. Gage’s willingness to be “a little unhinged” sets him apart, marking him as a distinctive and engaging figure in the entertainment industry.
