Lesbian
Trans
People of Color
Drag Queen/King
Companion (2025) isn’t just another horror-thriller. Directed by Drew Hancock, the film masterfully blends sci-fi, psychological terror, and an emotional core that sets it apart from the usual genre fare. But what truly makes it stand out is its groundbreaking queer representation, particularly in the relationship between Lukas Gage (Smile 2, Dead Boy Detectives, White Lotus) and Harvey Guillén (What We Do in the Shadows, Harley Quinn, Kung Fu Panda).
Their love story isn’t just a subplot—it’s the heart of the film, proving that LGBTQ+ relationships belong in all genres, including horror.
A Love Story That Defies Genre Tropes
In Companion, Gage plays Patrick, while Guillén plays Eli—a wealthy, entitled young man struggling with self-acceptance. Their relationship is a stark contrast to the film’s other couples, who are caught in toxic dynamics. Unlike many queer relationships in horror, which often end in tragedy or are riddled with internalized homophobia, Patrick and Eli’s love is refreshingly tender, authentic, and deeply emotional.
As Guillén put it in an interview, Eli is someone who has everything at his fingertips—except the ability to truly accept love. His struggle is one many queer people can relate to: even when love is given freely and openly, self-doubt and societal conditioning can make it difficult to embrace.
Meanwhile, Gage’s Patrick is the one character who loves without reservation. His warmth and vulnerability stand in contrast to the film’s overarching themes of manipulation and objectification. Their relationship isn’t just an afterthought—it serves as the most genuine and meaningful love story in the movie.
“I think it was refreshing to not have the queer couple be the toxic couple of the movie,” Gage said in an interview. “If anything, the most genuine, authentic love in the story was our relationship.”
And audiences agree. Early reactions from screenings have praised the way Companion avoids tired LGBTQ+ tropes, instead presenting Patrick and Eli as a couple that people root for.
Lukas Gage & Harvey Guillén: A Dream Team for Queer Horror
One of the biggest highlights of Companion is the undeniable chemistry between Lukas Gage and Harvey Guillén. Both actors are known for bringing charisma and emotional depth to their roles, and their performances here are no exception.
Gage, who has built a reputation for playing complex characters in White Lotus, Road House, Down Low, and Dead Boy Detectives, delivers one of his most emotionally raw performances to date. He brings a tender yet playful energy to Patrick, making him instantly likable. And let’s be honest—Gage being his usual insanely hot self only adds to the appeal.
Guillén, best known for his comedic brilliance in What We Do in the Shadows and his voice work in Angry Birds, Garfield, Harley Quinn, and Kung Fu Panda, steps into a more dramatic role here. He infuses Eli with nuance and depth, balancing snarky humor with deep emotional struggle. Seeing him in a more serious, romantic role is a refreshing change, and he absolutely delivers.
Together, Gage and Guillén bring to life one of the most compelling queer love stories we’ve seen in horror in years.
Queer Horror Done Right
Historically, LGBTQ+ representation in horror has been problematic at best—queer characters are often villainized (Sleepaway Camp), reduced to stereotypes (A Nightmare on Elm Street 2), or killed off for shock value. But in recent years, films like They/Them, Spiral, and It Comes at Night have attempted to push queer horror forward.
Companion takes it a step further, proving that LGBTQ+ relationships can exist in horror without being defined by trauma. Patrick and Eli’s love story is not about suffering—it’s about connection, vulnerability, and authenticity.
Director Drew Hancock made a conscious choice to subvert expectations by making their relationship the most pure and sincere love story in the film. In a genre that often leans into heartbreak for queer characters, this is a huge step forward.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for Horror & LGBTQ+ Audiences
With its sci-fi horror elements, psychological tension, and a beautifully crafted queer romance, Companion is one of the most exciting and progressive horror films of 2025.
Whether you’re here for the thrills, the twists, or just to see Lukas Gage and Harvey Guillén being absolute kings, this movie delivers on every level.
If you’re looking for a horror film that respects and celebrates queer love while still delivering edge-of-your-seat suspense, Companion is a must-watch.
