Relay: A New Kind of Thriller with Riz Ahmed and Lily James
Thrillers often focus on whistleblowers exposing the bad guys. But what happens when the fight is too much, and they just want their old life back? That’s the core of Relay, a new film starring Riz Ahmed and Lily James, and it’s a fascinating twist on a familiar genre.
A Fixer in the Shadows
Riz Ahmed plays Ash, a unique kind of problem solver. He’s a fixer who helps whistleblowers negotiate deals with their powerful, often dangerous former employers. Instead of exposing secrets, he helps people disappear. He operates in secrecy, using relay services – those designed for the hearing impaired – to guarantee his anonymity. Think of it like a high-stakes game of telephone, but the stakes are life and death. This clever setup instantly adds a layer of intrigue. Imagine needing to communicate with someone so powerful, yet so dangerous, you can’t even speak to them directly.
A Whistleblower Who Wants Out
Lily James’s character, Sarah, is the whistleblower. She stumbled upon something deadly within a biotech company, and now they’re after her. Initially, she wanted to expose them, but the company’s ruthless tactics have terrified her. She just wants to go back to normal, but how can she escape when they seem to be above the law?
A Tense Partnership
This is where Ash and Sarah’s paths collide. He’s her only hope of escaping the company’s relentless pursuit. The movie explores their uneasy alliance, highlighting the moral complexities of their situation. Is Ash truly helping, or is he enabling these powerful companies to silence those who threaten them? It makes you think about the grey areas where right and wrong become blurred.
Ahmed’s Strongest Performance Since Sound of Metal?
The review praises Ahmed’s performance, comparing it to his acclaimed role in Sound of Metal. He’s practically silent for the first half of the film, his only connection to the outside world being his weekly AA meetings. It’s a testament to Ahmed’s talent that he can convey so much with so little dialogue.
More Than Just a Thriller
Relay also delves into themes of isolation and paranoia, drawing comparisons to Francis Ford Coppola’s classic, The Conversation. Ash’s solitary existence and reliance on indirect communication create a sense of detachment that resonates throughout the film. It’s like he’s living in his own world, separated from everyone else by a wall of secrecy.
The Supporting Cast Shines
The supporting cast, including Sam Worthington and Willa Fitzgerald as the corporate “cleaners,” adds another layer of complexity. They’re not portrayed as simple villains but as professionals, just like Ash, but without a conscience. This nuanced portrayal makes their actions even more chilling. They’re not driven by malice, just cold, calculated efficiency.
A Throwback Thriller
The review suggests Relay feels like a thriller from the 90s, which could be a big draw for some viewers. It’s described as “cracking” and “smarter-than-average,” hinting at a plot that keeps you guessing. In today’s world of constant sequels and reboots, a fresh, original thriller is a welcome change.
Why This Movie Matters
Relay explores the David-and-Goliath struggle between individuals and powerful corporations. It raises questions about accountability and the lengths some will go to protect their secrets. In a world increasingly dominated by large corporations, this theme feels more relevant than ever.
A Limited Release
Unfortunately, Relay is getting a limited theatrical release, focusing primarily on digital platforms. This is a shame, as the reviewer clearly enjoyed the theatrical experience. It raises the question: are we losing something by watching these kinds of movies at home instead of on the big screen?
So, if you’re looking for a smart, suspenseful thriller with a unique premise and strong performances, Relay might be worth checking out. What are your thoughts on thrillers that flip the script on familiar tropes? Are you intrigued by the premise of Relay?