'The Amateur' Movie Review: A Slow Burn Yet Smart Revenge Thriller

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As someone who thrives on smart, cerebral thrillers and who appreciates Rami Malek’s intense performances, I’ve been eagerly anticipating The Amateur for quite some time. While the film delivered in several areas, it wasn’t without its faults, leaving a mixed yet engaging viewing experience. Here’s my full breakdown of what worked and what unfortunately missed the mark.

But first, let’s start with the plot. The Amateur, directed by James Hawes, tells the story of CIA analyst Charlie Heller (Rami Malek), whose perfect life collapses when terrorists kill his wife. Fueled by grief and rage, Charlie uses his code-breaking skills to hunt down those responsible.

Check out the trailer below.

The Amateur Movie Trailer

The Amateur Movie Review: What I Did and Didn’t Like

I enjoyed the cerebral take on revenge. Unlike usual action heroes, Charlie doesn’t rely on fighting skills or physical strength. He uses his intelligence, hacking expertise, and careful planning to take down villains far stronger than he is. It’s refreshing to see a thriller where brains matter more than muscles.

However, the film also stumbles. Fans who already know Malek’s famous Mr. Robot character might find some of his performances too familiar. While Malek is undoubtedly talented, he’s become somewhat typecast into these nervous, obsessive hacker roles. This familiarity tends to lessen the emotional impact at critical moments, giving the feeling that something is missing—even in such a carefully plotted narrative.

Laurence Fishburne as Henderson and Rami Malek as Heller in 20th Century Studios' THE AMATEUR — Laurence Fishburne as Henderson and Rami Malek as Heller in 20th Century Studios’ THE AMATEUR

The Story

Based on Robert Littell’s 1981 novel, the story anchors itself firmly in Charlie’s relatable and human transformation—going from a shy, reserved analyst who spends his days behind a desk to someone who steps outside his comfort zone, pushed by tragedy into a realm of calculated vengeance. This journey acts as the emotional core, giving viewers someone realistic and understandable to root for, rather than a stereotypical action hero.

The film underscores this personal transformation through captivating international settings and atmospheric cinematography. Whether it’s the bustling streets of London, the elegant chaos of Paris, or the mystique-filled alleyways of Istanbul, each destination adds distinct texture, enhancing the film’s sense of realism and depth. These locations aren’t just background—they heighten Charlie’s disorientation and urgency as he navigates foreign terrains in pursuit of justice.

Additionally, the movie pulls audiences deeper through inventive set pieces and original stunt sequences. A particularly memorable scene showcases a luxury hotel’s suspended swimming pool rigged to explode—an imaginative, standout moment crafted with visual flair. Equally unique is a tense encounter involving weaponized pollen—a creative twist that adds freshness and genuine surprise to the thriller genre. While these inventive moments make the story intriguing, occasionally, their execution borders slightly on being too far-fetched, briefly taking viewers out of the film’s grounded atmosphere.

Pacing Issues

Yet, even with these strengths, the film falters when it comes to pacing. It takes time to build emotional tension early on, meticulously introducing Charlie’s backstory, grief, and initial hesitation. However, Charlie’s subsequent swift evolution into a competent operative feels somewhat sudden and unrealistic. The shift from cautious desk analyst to seasoned avenger is too rapid, contrasting sharply against the movie’s earlier deliberate, careful storytelling. This unevenness introduces a disorienting effect, unfortunately dampening the carefully built-up suspense and emotional tension. It makes certain transition points feel abrupt or unearned, leaving viewers wishing for a bit more depth or nuance in the protagonist’s growth.

Ultimately, while the film’s atmospheric locations, impressive creative stunts, and relatable framing of Charlie’s tragic quest give audiences much to appreciate, these pacing and narrative missteps limit its ability to immerse viewers in the experience fully.

New Movies Coming Out: The Amateur — Rami Malek in ‘The Amateur’

The Performances

Rami Malek

Rami Malek gracefully carries most of the movie. He convincingly captures Charlie’s pain, awkwardness, intelligence, and growing obsession, bringing honesty to a complex emotional landscape. Malek grounds the film by showing us the inner struggle beneath Charlie’s carefully controlled exterior. His eyes, always intense and piercing, vividly express every hidden thought; when he’s plotting revenge, we feel his calculating mind at work, and when grief overtakes him, there’s a raw vulnerability that hits home.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne provides a standout performance in a very different way, playing Charlie’s reluctant mentor. His character, Henderson, is rugged, practical, and world-weary. Fishburne’s blunt delivery and experienced presence serve as a perfect counterbalance to Malek’s thoughtful restraint. Their scenes together create instant chemistry, providing some of the film’s most enjoyable and layered interactions.

Rachel Brosnahan & Jon Bernthal

However, the film stumbles by not fully using its impressive ensemble cast. Rachel Brosnahan, as Sarah—Charlie’s wife—is mostly confined to flashbacks; she’s given limited material, which, unfortunately, leaves her character feeling like little more than a plot device. Jon Bernthal’s character also suffers from minimal screen time and development, disappointing viewers who know Bernthal’s skillful potential from other projects (you could have actually removed Bernthal’s character entirely, and it wouldn’t have impacted the plot at all).

Caitríona Balfe

Additionally, Caitríona Balfe’s role begs for further exploration. She shares a poignant emotional bond with Charlie, yet the film doesn’t give their relationship enough breathing room to resonate fully. Having been a dedicated admirer of Balfe’s work for over a decade—since I first saw her bring Claire Fraser to life in Outlander—I was excited to see her transition to new types of roles post-Outlander. While Balfe brings warmth and nuance to her scenes, her talents deserved a fuller, more layered narrative arc. She could have offered much more to enhance the emotional stakes had the screenplay allowed the space and depth her character needed. I’m eager to see what Balfe chooses next and hopeful that future projects better utilize her considerable strengths.

Rami Malek as Heller and Caitriona Balfe as Inquiline in 20th Century Studios' THE AMATEUR. — Rami Malek as Heller and Caitriona Balfe as Inquiline in 20th Century Studios’ THE AMATEUR.

Overall Thoughts

The Amateur presents clear strengths and troubling flaws, but it holds together thanks to Malek’s thoughtful performance and some clever plotting. It positions itself as an intelligent thriller—a quieter alternative to the louder, action-filled spy films we’re used to seeing. Fans of films or shows like Mr. Robot who appreciate strategic storytelling and subtle character development will find something to enjoy here.

Still, expect patience to be needed, as the pacing and lack of deep supporting characters limit the film’s overall impact. This thriller won’t be revolutionary or unforgettable, but it’s an entertaining and intelligent watch nonetheless.

Final verdict: An intriguing espionage thriller that could’ve done even more but is anchored solidly by Malek’s cerebral performance.