About the film (courtesy of 20th Century Studios):
Charlie Heller (Rami Malek) is a brilliant, but deeply introverted decoder for the CIA working out of a basement office at headquarters in Langley whose life is turned upside down when his wife is killed in a London terrorist attack. When his supervisors refuse to take action, he takes matters into his own hands, embarking on a dangerous trek across the globe to track down those responsible, his intelligence serving as the ultimate weapon for eluding his pursuers and achieving his revenge.
Alright, let’s dive into The Amateur, a film that, much like recent releases such as Black Bag (2025), opts for a slow-burn approach, allowing tension to simmer and build rather than explode in a flurry of action. And just like those other films, it succeeds, thanks in no small part to Rami Malek’s compelling performance. It’s a testament to his range, and honestly, watching him navigate this intricate, shadowy world, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to his iconic role in Mr. Robot (2015-2019). There’s a certain intensity, a quiet intelligence, that he brings to the screen that’s utterly captivating.
The story itself is a masterclass in gradual revelation, each scene feeling like a calculated chess move, drawing you further into its web of intrigue. You know, I’ve been thinking, if Sam Esmail, the mastermind behind Mr. Robot, had ever decided to translate that series’ brilliance into a feature film, I suspect The Amateur might have been the result. It has that same level of sophisticated storytelling, that willingness to let the narrative unfold at its own pace, trusting the audience to stay engaged. And stay engaged, I did.
Malek, as the titular amateur, delivers a performance that’s both nuanced and powerful. He manages to convey a sense of vulnerability and determination, a man navigating a world far more complex and dangerous than he initially anticipated. The supporting cast, featuring the likes of Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson and Laurence Fishburne, is equally strong, each character adding another layer to the intricate puzzle that the film presents. There’s a certain grit to The Amateur, a realism that grounds it, even as the plot twists and turns into more unexpected territory.
As a reviewer, I appreciate a film that doesn’t feel the need to spoon-feed its audience. The Amateur trusts you to follow along, to piece together the clues, and to ultimately arrive at your own conclusions. It’s a film that you’ll appreciate once you start to replay the finer plot points. It’s a film that demands your attention, but rewards it in kind. Don’t lose focus over the 123 minute runtime because it’s a very interesting endeavor.
For those who enjoy intelligent thrillers that prioritize character development and intricate plotting over cheap thrills and explosions, The Amateur is a solid-watch. It’s a film that proves that sometimes, the most effective way to build suspense is to take your time, to let the story breathe, and to trust in the power of a compelling performance. And Malek, in this film, gives a compelling performance. It is an experience that feels like a solid addition to the thriller genre.
