by Andrew Buckner

Rating: ****1/2 out of *****.

“Say Hello” (2025), from director David Graziano, hums along with compact, efficient, machine-like precision for every one of its fifteen minutes. The short gangster/police procedural film, whose title is an abbreviated reference to one of the most iconic lines delivered by Tony Montana (Al Pacino) in Brian DePalma’s controversial masterpiece Scarface (1983), is a dialogue and character-driven crime-thriller that excels on both fronts. The screenplay by Kasia Skolasa and Killarney Traynor is filled with appropriately brief, enigmatic discourse that immediately pulls audiences into its seedy world of brutality and deception. It also keeps its lightning-like pace zooming breezily along until its foreseeable, but still engaging, carefully constructed, and memorable, climax. 

Moreover, the three leads of the undertaking, Marconi (Graziano), Lieutenant Cole (Skolasa), and Eve Hathaway (Traynor) are brought to vivid, layered life. This is by their exceptional focus and skillful development in the script and by the same said performers who embody them on the screen. Because of these high-functioning traits, the aforementioned principal figures are all relatable, organic, and credible throughout the entirety of the production. Their motivations and individual perspectives are always understandable and clearly conveyed. Coincidingly, all of these elements are demonstrated with an underlying dramatic intensity that makes the finely woven twists and turns, as well as the emotional beats, of the narrative all the more palpable. 

The plotline concerns Lieutenant Cole, whose issues with her turbulent past and caring for her daughter weigh heavily on her mind, being approached by mob boss Marconi. As Marconi asks Lieutenant Cole for personal assistance In a matter that puts her in a terrible position, a series of trying events threaten to bring violence into the life of Lieutenant Cole.

Though such a story is inherently familiar, it is delivered in a smart, suspenseful manner. It is one which makes the material feel fresh at every avenue. What also helps matters is the crisp, breathtaking cinematography from Christopher Di Nunzio, which visually reiterates the raw, gritty tone of the piece to masterful effect. Continually, the editing from Traynor is just as powerful. There is not a single frame of the project that can be deemed extraneous. Furthermore, the costume, makeup, camera, and sound work are sharp and proficient. The gently employed music from Kevin MacLeod is atmospheric and fitting. It heightens every scene in which it is incorporated.

Boosted by a superb, mesmerizing depiction of Frankie by Claire Aucoin, the latest cinematic offering from Graziano, whose guidance of the venture is smart and slyly stylish throughout the composition, utilizes its small cast and sparse, intimate locations to potent effect. The quick, quiet opening and closing credits sequences are suitable for the exercise. They nicely compliment the steely demeanor of both the account and its atmosphere. In turn, “Say Hello” overcomes its conventional nature with respect for its genre and with deft, loving craftsmanship from all involved. Compelling in its ever-timely and timeless themes of processing trauma and revenge, it’s one of the best fabrications of its type of the year.