Relay

People sometimes find themselves in unfortunate situations with seemingly no way out. That's where Ash, played by Ahmed, steps in-as a mediator who ensures both sides can walk away clean, with no strings attached and no need to look over their shoulders. A clean break. Unsurprisingly, Ahmed is brilliant. With limited dialog in the first half of the film his body language and mannerisms allows his presence to be felt. Also, shoutout to the wardrobe department for making him a master of disguise. This film is really engaging, thrilling, and with well timed moments of comedy at times. Thought I felt the runtime was a bit long the story is compelling enough to make it worth the watch.

I think there are a few things, especially one... that the director thought would be a shock, a killer hook, but... nah. I had the big "secret" figured out about 1/3 of the way and I'm no super-sleuth. Flicks like Knives Out and Simple Plan were much more engaging and so many others have a better cast and acting like Black Bag.

This move really had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning. It had a 'what is going on here' vibe, but I wasn't confused or bored, I just really wanted to know the answer. The cat and mouse elements are really incredible and it has a great twist toward the end that leaves you rethinking the actions of a main character through out. Definitely worth your time.

I saw Relay early due to Screen Unseen.

Relay is an absolute standout - a gripping, high-stakes thriller that had me hooked from the opening scene to the final moments. The story follows Lilly, a determined protagonist caught in the crosshairs of a corrupt corporate scandal, as she navigates tense dealings with the enigmatic broker Riz. Every interaction crackles with tension, and the film masterfully delivers sharp twists and unexpected turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Smart, suspenseful, and refreshingly unpredictable, Relay is a must-watch.

If a suspense thriller is suspenseful and thrilling, it has succeeded at its job. And that's how I feel about Relay. It hooks you early with a cool premise and never lets go. The story is interesting and filled with intrigue.

I like that it doesn't explain everything. It allows the viewer to figure things out and put the pieces together. And it has a steady increase in intensity and good escalation to the climax. It does come to a fairly abrupt conclusion, but I still found it satisfying.

The entire cast gives good performances, with the standout being the lead, Riz Ahmed. I had a good time with this movie and was happy with its selection for this week's secret movie screening.

(1 viewing, early screening Mystery Movie Monday 8/11/2025)