Helmer David Mackenzie on His TIFF Thriller ‘Relay’: ‘I’m very drawn to these sort of outsider characters’

As a seasoned moviegoer with over three decades of cinematic adventures under my belt, I can confidently say that David Mackenzie has once again delivered a masterpiece with “Relay”. The director, known for his works like “Hell and High Water” and “Under the Banner of Heaven”, has outdone himself with this tight thriller.

David Mackenzie crafts an engrossing suspenseful drama titled “Relay,” which was unveiled at the Toronto International Film Festival. In this movie, Riz Ahmed portrays Tom, a character who serves as a liaison between corporate whistleblowers and their respective companies. Operating in a covert and ethically questionable realm, Tom’s world takes an unexpected turn when Lily James’ character, Sarah, seeks his assistance. The narrative unfolds into a captivating game of cat and mouse, combining advanced and primitive technology, culminating in a nerve-wracking climax laden with corporate critique. Black Bear Intl. holds the international distribution rights for the thriller, while CAA Media Finance and UTA Independent Film Group are managing its U.S. distribution.

As a movie enthusiast, I’m currently immersed in the final stages of my latest project, “Fuze,” which is being filmed in and around the captivating cityscape of London. This film, starring the talented Aaron Taylor-Johnson, promises to be a complex, intense, and somewhat heist-like adventure. It’s been quite a challenge, but I’m pleased with how it’s shaping up so far. Hard work, indeed, but worth every moment!

For a while now, I’ve been involved in art-house films, which I truly appreciate, but I’m seeking a new approach – one that remains intellectually stimulating yet more appealing and potentially profitable for the audience. In essence, ‘Relay’ could have been Warren Beatty’s blockbuster back in 1973. Mackenzie smiles, recognizing the resemblance to the classic thriller he wanted to create. He felt Riz Ahmed would offer a fresh, modern twist on this genre, and he proved to be an exceptional collaborator.

Ahmed’s intense posture is mostly conveyed through his expressive eyes, since his dialogue is sparse. The casting process can be quite amusing, and I’ve watched his career grow as an audience member for years. I’ve always found him to be particularly intriguing.

The title of the movie signifies the kind of voice-enabled communication system that Ahmed’s character Ash uses in the film. This service utilizes human operators to verbally transmit phone calls and messages, as well as typed communication. It is commonly used by individuals with speech impairments or hearing difficulties. Moreover, it proves useful for undercover activities since there are no records of calls or numbers saved, ensuring anonymity for users.

In the vein of many other films he’s crafted, “Relay” shines a light on an individual operating outside the mainstream. As a connoisseur, I find myself particularly captivated by these enigmatic characters who refuse to conform, choosing instead to stand their ground. These individuals, like whistleblowers who pay dearly for their convictions, possess a remarkable strength of character – a steadfast sense of right and wrong that goes beyond mere adherence to societal norms. This is what director Mackenzie appreciates about them.

The ambiance of “Relay,” filmed in New York City and New Jersey, carries a heavy and tense feel, contributing to the overall unease. Mackenzie shares that he aimed to shoot during November but couldn’t, so they filmed in the spring and early summer instead. They’ve slightly dimmed its tone, giving it a more somber mood.

2024-09-09 06:16

Helmer David Mackenzie on His TIFF Thriller ‘Relay’: ‘I’m very drawn to these sort of outsider characters’

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