DVD Corner

Relay Blu-ray Review

“Relay” is a respectable twisty thriller.  

Penned by Justin Piasecki, “Relay” is a thriller revolving around Ash- a former alcoholic fixer who strikes deals between corrupt companies and potential whistleblowers. The story kicks off with Ash brokering an agreement between McVie (the CEO of the crooked Optimo corporation) and a former employee (Hoffman). Shortly thereafter, Ash gets a new client with Sarah, a scientist with a bio-tech company who has discovered cover up evidence of damaging side effects of an insect resistant wheat. Sarah is being harassed by a hired team seeking the cover-up documents and reaches out to Ash in need of help. Ash strictly communicates via a confidential relay service. He’s a quiet and clever man who keeps to himself, operates in the shadows, and even dons disguises when out on the job. The team soon learns that Ash is always one step ahead of them and frequently sends them on a wild goose chase. As Ash tries to make a deal with the team, he finds himself developing a bond with Sarah. This is when things start to go south for Ash as the job starts to get bumpy forcing Ash to potentially compromise how he tends to operate. Moreover, he soon finds out that not everything is as it seems with this particular assignment. 

Best known for “Hell Or High Water,” director David Mackenzie makes a modern albeit old school flavored thriller about communication, trust, and paranoia. “Relay” starts off with a bang and grabs your attention immediately. You really become immersed in the world Ash inhabits. Alas, the middle act causes the film to become a bit on the tedious side until the twist-filled third act mixes things up. Admittedly, the ending might be divisive to certain viewers, but it feels fitting for the story being told here. 

The cast really elevates the film as a whole. Riz Ahmed may be a man of few words here, but the actor gives a deep and compelling performance. He’s never one to shy away from challenging roles. Lily James is at the top of her game here as Sarah. This is a different role for the actress and she relishes the part. Sam Worthington has had a history of bad roles and performances, but thankfully this is not one of them. In this he plays one of hired guns, Dawson who is after Sarah. He’s an intimidating villain. Last, but not least Willa Fitzgerald (of “Reacher” and “Strange Darling” fame) does a credible job as another team member named Rosetti.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.35:1 1080p. Grade: A

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. Grade: A-

The only extras are trailers for “Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues” and “Bone Lake.”

October 6, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Lily James, Relay Blu-ray Review, Riz Ahmed, Sam Worthington, thriller