Cinemax's enthralling, mind-bending British crime drama series Rellik, released in 2017, endeavors to distinguish itself from traditional storytelling norms by presenting the narrative in a reverse chronological order. As it takes audiences on an intricate and twisted journey, Rellik (‘Killer’ spelled backward) examines the tragedy of a serial killer case from a unique vantage point, peeling back the layers of a mystery one episode at a time. Across the six hour-long episodes, we gradually uncover the complexities of not just the crime being investigated, but the very people who are entrenched in this mysterious and dark narrative.

Gabriel Markham, the disfigured lead detective haunted by his facial scars, is our guide through the tumultuous narrative landscape. Played by Richard Dormer, known for his role in Game of Thrones, Markham is intensely driven on his quest for justice. In his relentless hunt for the serial killer who left him physically and emotionally scarred, Markham showcases an almost obsessive determination. This leads him down a dangerous path filled with secrets, setting off ripples that affect both his personal and professional life.

Complementing Dormer's performance, the show boasts an array of impressive actors, add even more depth to the narrative. Jodi Balfour plays Elaine, Markham's understanding yet mysterious wife, while Rosalind Eleazar plays Christine, an enigmatic woman whose connection to the gruesome happenings is progressively revealed as the story unwinds backward. Michael Shaeffer and Paterson Joseph lend their talents to portray Detective Superintendent Mike Sutherland and psychiatrist Isaac Taylor, respectively, who both play crucial roles in the unfolding chaos.

The unique story structure of Rellik, penned by Harry and Jack Williams, is no gimmick. Instead, it accentuates the themes of cause and effect, and how singular events can trigger consequences that echo backward and forward in time. By revealing the murderer in the first episode, Rellik plays more like a whyunit than a whodunit, bringing the hidden motivations and psychological factors to light. Unlike a straightforward chronological narrative, Rellik gives us the effect before the cause, challenging viewers to piece together information in a puzzle-like manner.

Rellik is visually demanding and atmospheric, boasting some truly haunting imagery. Cinematographer Jan Richter-Friis showcases his talent in every frame, painting a brooding and bleak picture of London. This grim cityscape offers an appropriate backdrop for the unfolding story, with its often rainy and overcast atmosphere heightening the sense of despair. Complementing the enthralling visuals is a notable score. The minimalist, yet deeply unsettling soundtrack by composer Mario Grigarov keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Meanwhile, Rellik excels at providing viewers with a psychological introspection, examining life's random happenstance and the subsequent ripple effects. As it delves into the psyche of its characters, the series proves that sometimes, the most significant events can stem from the most inconspicuous beginnings. The series also explores the concept of identity, particularly Markham's struggle with his disfigurement, and how it affects his relations with others.

Sam Miller, known for ‘Luther’, drives the series masterfully as director, ensuring that despite the challenging narrative structure, the story remains engaging. His skill keeps viewers invested throughout the series, seamlessly blending action, tension, and emotional depth.

In conclusion, Rellik is an audacious whirlwind of a crime drama that stands out in the genre. It deftly manipulates time to craft a tale brimming with suspense, shadowy motives and stark emotional intensity. At its core, Rellik is about the characters and their experiences, as much as it is about the crime. Its innovative narrative style, top-tier acting, outstanding cinematography, and intricate psychological exploration make it a must-see for fans of sophisticated crime dramas. This unique take on storytelling may not be for everyone, given its complex narrative and occasionally daunting subject matter. However, for viewers who treasure intricate plotting, invest in complex characters, and enjoy bold narrative experiments, Rellik is a richly rewarding experience that will linger in the mind long after the final credits roll.