‘Mayday’ Review: A Cold War Buddy Comedy That Soars with Unexpected Chemistry
Apple TV’s latest original film ‘Mayday‘ transports viewers to 1987, right at the conclusion of the Cold War, posing an intriguing question. What unfolds when a brash American fighter pilot is shot down in Soviet territory, only to be rescued by a man who idolizes everything the United States represents? Ryan Reynolds takes on the role of Lieutenant Troy Kelly, callsign Assassin, a character that fits him like a leather jacket on someone who knows they look good in it.
The film draws heavily from a rich history of buddy action films, embracing that nostalgia with a soundtrack of classic hits and a storyline reminiscent of a VHS rental. Kenneth Branagh portrays Nikolai, a former KGB operative who saves Troy, and their reluctant partnership drives the narrative forward. Once you realize that ‘Mayday’ is essentially a road trip movie dressed in espionage attire, everything about it begins to resonate.
What surprised me the most is how much of the film belongs to Branagh rather than Reynolds. While Reynolds delivers his signature quips and plays the exasperated straight man more often than expected, it’s Branagh who truly commands the screen. His portrayal of Nikolai, a man molded by years of Soviet discipline yet secretly enamored with American pop culture, adds layers of humor that often surpass the scripted jokes.
The action sequences embrace spectacle while maintaining the film’s human scale. A particular set piece featuring a military parade and a massive piece of equipment had me laughing out loud at its delightfully absurd nature. The film zips through trains, snowy landscapes, and cramped vehicles with a kinetic energy that keeps the pacing brisk, even when the plot feels a bit thin. At times, the film lingers in familiar territory, recycling elements from numerous odd couple thrillers without always introducing a fresh twist.
However, none of this detracts from what makes ‘Mayday’ truly shine: the evolving friendship between the two leads. It begins as a comedy of national stereotypes colliding and gradually transforms into a bond filled with genuine affection, a shift made possible by the actors’ full commitment. Branagh, in particular, uncovers notes of loneliness and longing in Nikolai, giving the film a heartbeat that it might not have achieved through the script alone.
Kenneth Branagh discussed preparing for the physical demands of his role, sharing with the Variety Lounge at the Edinburgh International Film Festival that he aimed to embody a former lethal operative. His early morning routines to loosen up his body significantly contributed to his convincing choreography on screen. This effort translates into a performance that feels authentic rather than a mere novelty casting choice, showcasing an actor reveling in a genre he seldom explores.
By the time the credits roll, ‘Mayday’ has successfully fostered its warmth, even if it doesn’t completely escape the influence of the films it pays homage to. I left feeling entertained, occasionally moved, and pleasantly surprised by a pairing that worked better than I anticipated. This breezy, good-hearted throwback relies on its two leads to carry the narrative, and they do so, infusing the film with more charm than its familiar premise might suggest. My score for ‘Mayday’ is 8 out of 10.
Share your thoughts in the comments about whether you think ‘Mayday’ captures its Cold War charm or if you found the familiar setup less forgivable than I did.