In The Travel Companion, an offbeat, heartfelt comedy set in New York City, struggling documentarian Simon (Tristan Turner) is desperately clinging to the one perk keeping his wanderlust—and career—alive: his best friend Bruce’s flight benefits. Bruce (Anthony Oberbeck), a loyal friend and airline employee, has allowed Simon to tag along as his “travel companion,” enabling Simon to fly standby anywhere for free. It’s a lifeline for Simon’s unfocused, ever-expanding documentary about “humanity”—a project that’s more concept than concrete.
But when Bruce begins dating Beatrice (Naomi Asa), a confident and accomplished filmmaker, Simon’s fragile world starts to unravel. What begins as a casual introduction turns into a serious relationship, and soon, Beatrice is in Bruce’s kitchen—and in Simon’s way.
With Bruce now considering changing the name on his travel benefit in two months, Simon spirals. His fear of losing free flights quickly turns obsessive. He begins to sabotage Bruce’s relationship, rationalizing each selfish move as a necessary step to protect his project. But underneath the surface, Simon’s real struggle is with his own lack of direction, professional jealousy, and emotional dependency.
As Bruce and Beatrice grow closer, Simon’s insecurities deepen. His documentary becomes less about capturing the essence of humanity and more about preserving his comfort zone. The closer he gets to losing his travel perks, the more he risks losing his only true friendship—and maybe even his chance at artistic purpose.
A bittersweet and sharply observed film about friendship, creative ambition, and the messy in-between of adulthood, The Travel Companion balances humor and heartbreak in a story that speaks to every artist who’s ever felt stuck—emotionally or creatively.
Directed by: Travis Wood & Alex Mallis
Written by: Alex Mallis, Travis Wood, Weston Auburn
Produced by: Weston Auburn, Travis Wood, Alex Mallis
Starring: Tristan Turner, Anthony Oberbeck, Naomi Asa
Produced by: Meerkat Media, BRIC TV, Art School Athletics, in association with Tinygiant
World Premiere at Tribeca Festival 2025 (U.S. Narrative Competition)
