“Relay” follows a bribe broker who breaks his own rules when a client needs protection, complicating his usual operations.
What makes “Relay” stand out is the fact that most of its most impactful scenes of dialogue come over the phone. It takes this even further, as the person sending the message isn’t always the one speaking.
Utilizing the real-life Telecommunications Relay Service, the film thinks outside the box to carry its simple premise forward.
Conversations in the Margins
With constant one-sided conversation, it is Lily James (Sarah) who does most of the heavy lifting in the early stages of “Relay.” It’s only at about the midway point where Riz Ahmed (Ash) begins to flex his subdued star power.
This bold approach leaves information hidden – from both the audience and characters alike. Because of this, an extra layer of mystery is present that makes each conversation more intense than the last.
This largely works because of the talented cast. James and Ahmed have phenomenal chemistry (even from afar) from beginning to end. Both actors deliver fairly reserved performances, with James portraying fear and anxiety while Ahmed is calm and collected. Their contrasting beats make the connection strangely effective.
Also appearing are Sam Worthington (Dawson), Willa Fitzgerald (Rosetti) and Victor Garber (McVie).
Connection at a Distance
Following two lonely souls, “Relay” crafts a layered story of companionship. Because so many of the conversations between Ash and Sarah are over the phone, the moment they do finally connect is emotional. While the constant relaying of messages and moments prohibits it from going all-in on this aspect, it is there – and it is unique.
There is a romantic sublayer within this idea that feels partly forced, however.
Even amidst this tale of connection, there is more than meets the eye. And maybe not all is as it seems. “Relay” takes bold swings in its final act, going in genuinely unexpected directions. There are hints of predictability within its ultimate outcome, but the film finds clever ways to keep it mostly hidden throughout.
When the Signal Falters
Despite these leaps in the last 20 minutes, they don’t fully work. “Relay” loses its conspiracy, cat-and-mouse approach in the final act. And while this conclusion may make viewers recontextualize the entire film, it comes across as less brainy and more messy.
Director David Mackenzie mostly succeeds in creating a throwback-style thriller, and it stays true to this approach for the 112-minute runtime.
“Relay” may not be for everyone; it’s slow-paced, quiet and minimalistic. Look beneath the surface, however, and there’s a uniquely told premise that deserves more eyes.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
