Omaha-Born Filmmaker Drew Hancock Debuts “Companion” Nationwide
A new film, “Companion,” crafted by Omaha native Drew Hancock, makes its way to theaters this Friday. Hancock, who grew up in Nebraska and later moved to Los Angeles, reflects on how his hometown influenced his filmmaking journey. In a discussion with Arthur Jones from Nebraska Public Media, Hancock explores the roots of his passion and the creation of his first feature film.
Early Influences
Arthur Jones asked Hancock if his family had a significant impact on his interest in film. Hancock shared, “My mom, you know, loves old movies, and I just they were, would always be on television, and she’d be watching something like an Alfred Hitchcock movie or Woody Allen movie. I just was fascinated by movies and TV.”
It was during his teenage years that Hancock realized his admiration for cinema. A memorable moment was watching “Pulp Fiction” at the now-defunct Indian Hills theater, which left a lasting impression on him. The experience of being completely engrossed in a film sparked a deeper interest in exploring the narratives and stories behind movies.
The Inspiration Behind “Companion”
When asked about the concept for “Companion,” Hancock revealed that the idea came to him on January 1, 2021. He explained, “This is one of the few times that the idea came to me fully baked.” The film delves into a world where regular people interact with advanced technology, focusing on a woman’s breakup with her boyfriend rather than a robot gaining sentience. Hancock emphasized that the core of the story is rooted in human relationships.
Omaha’s Influence on Hancock’s Work
Despite his move to Los Angeles, Hancock maintains a strong connection to Omaha. He visits every Christmas and acknowledges how the city has shaped his artistic themes. “I love Omaha, and I wish I could go back more often,” he expressed. Hancock’s projects often explore identity crises, reflecting his own struggles and the unique characteristics of Omaha, a city he describes as “specific, in its un-specificity.”
A Hometown Premiere
Hancock admits to feeling a bit overwhelmed by the idea of his movie being shown in Omaha, where he grew up. He stated, “I never in a million years thought that I would be able to direct a movie and have it come out theatrically, especially in a time when a lot of movies aren’t getting theatrical releases.” The filmmaker is proud of his Nebraska roots and hopes that audiences in his home state will share in that pride.
“Companion” is now available in theaters, marking an exciting milestone for Drew Hancock’s budding career in film. The release signifies a full-circle moment for Hancock, bringing his creative journey back to where it all began.
