‘Mayday’ Review: Ryan Reynold’s Buddy Comedy Offers Cold War Comfort With Visual Flair

The AV Club's Kyle Turner explores why many films utilize a washed-out, medium lighting technique in their cinematography. In "Mayday," directed by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, directors John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, along with cinematographer Barry Peterson, have taken a familiar buddy road trip story and infused it with visually exciting elements.

The film begins in medias res with Navy pilot Troy Kelly, played by Ryan Reynolds, crashing in the Russian wilderness. Troy is a lone wolf who has internalized U.S. propaganda about Soviets and is excited to fly a spy mission. He is rescued by Nikolai Ustinov, an ex-KGB agent who has a fondness for American culture and dreams of visiting the country.

As both characters navigate the dangerous terrain, they form an unlikely bond, with Nikolai helping Troy escape the USSR. The cinematography in "Mayday" is consistently playful and dynamic, capturing action scenes and comedic moments with unique flair. Ryan Reynolds shines in his role, though his performance lacks much variety compared to other Reynolds characters.

Branagh's performance as Nikolai is exceptional, managing to make a hardened ex-KGB agent seem endearing and convincing in action scenes. The film's setting in the Cold War era gives it a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of 1980s buddy road trip comedies like "Top Gun," "Midnight Run," and "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles." While the underlying simplicity of the story may not appeal to everyone, the visual appeal and humor keep "Mayday" engaging and above its streaming competition. The film is currently streaming on Apple TV starting September 4th.