A Thrilling New Addition to the Genre
The film Relay, directed by David Mackenzie, made a strong debut at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, receiving widespread praise. The movie features Riz Ahmed and Lily James in leading roles, delivering compelling performances that have captured the attention of both critics and audiences. Set as a paranoid thriller, Relay draws inspiration from the classic '70s mystery genre, offering a high-stakes cat-and-mouse narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
In Relay, Ahmed plays Ash, a fixer who operates in the shadows to protect whistleblowers from corrupt corporations. His job involves maintaining a wall of secrecy through a relay service, ensuring that neither he nor his clients are exposed. However, when a new client named Sarah (played by Lily James) reaches out for help, Ash's carefully maintained discipline begins to unravel. This shift sets the stage for a tense and unpredictable journey that explores themes of trust, betrayal, and survival.
A Unique Script and Collaborative Process
Ahmed and James shared insights into what makes Relay stand out from other films in the genre. They highlighted the script's confidence and its ability to engage audiences without relying on excessive exposition. Ahmed noted that his character doesn't speak for the first half-hour of the movie, which creates an immediate sense of intrigue. This approach not only keeps viewers guessing but also allows them to become fully immersed in the story.
James emphasized the depth of the characters and the emotional weight of their missions. She described the film as a portrayal of "lonely people in New York City" navigating high-stakes situations. For her, the setting of New York City played a crucial role in shaping the film's atmosphere. The city itself became almost like a character, with its energy and unpredictability adding authenticity to the story.
Filming in the Heart of New York City
One of the most challenging aspects of filming Relay was the decision to shoot in real locations across New York City. Ahmed and James spoke about the chaotic yet invigorating experience of working in such a dynamic environment. They mentioned the Times Square sequence, where the crew had to work with real crowds and unpredictable conditions. Despite the challenges, they praised director David Mackenzie for his choice to embrace the city's energy rather than shut it down for filming.
Ahmed described the process as "bizarre and disorientating," noting that the collaborative nature of the shoot allowed for a more organic development of the scenes. Instead of following a rigid schedule, the cast and crew worked together throughout the weekend, adapting and refining their approach as they went along. This open and flexible method created a sense of fluidity and spontaneity that translated well onto the screen.
Insights from Previous Projects
During the conversation, Ahmed and James also shared stories from their previous projects. Ahmed recounted a particularly grueling scene from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, where he spent a week carrying a heavy prop backpack while running through sand and dodging obstacles. Unfortunately, the scene didn't make it into the final cut, highlighting the unpredictable nature of filmmaking.
James spoke about the intense physical demands of her upcoming project, a reboot of Cliffhanger. She described the challenges of filming in the Dolomites, where she had to hike for hours with all her gear and navigate extreme weather conditions. These experiences underscored the physical toll that acting can take, even though many people might not realize it.
A Must-Watch for Thriller Fans
With its smart writing, gripping narrative, and strong performances, Relay is a standout addition to the thriller genre. The film’s blend of suspense, character development, and atmospheric settings makes it a compelling watch for fans of the genre. As it continues to play in theaters nationwide, Relay is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences looking for a fresh and engaging cinematic experience.
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