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The Amateur: Rami Malek Takes on a Unique Role as an Action Hero
Rami Malek, recognized for his role as the iconic James Bond villain and an Academy Award winner, steps into an unexpected action hero role in the upcoming thriller The Amateur. Initial responses to the film suggest it offers a fresh twist on the genre, possibly ranking among the standout action films of recent years.
Directed by James Hawes and penned by Ken Nolan and Gary Spinelli, The Amateur draws inspiration from Robert Littell’s 1981 novel of the same name. In the film, Malek portrays Charlie Heller, a reserved CIA cryptographer who transforms into a vigilante after his wife’s life is tragically cut short in a terrorist incident. The supporting cast features notable talents such as Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson, Adrian Martinez, Danny Sapani, and Laurence Fishburne.
Set to premiere in theaters on April 11, 2025, The Amateur is an anticipated release from 20th Century Studios. Early reviews provide fascinating insights into the narrative, with one synopsis detailing Heller’s journey from a low-key decoder in Langley to a driven individual seeking justice against those who cause him immense loss. Following a lack of action from his superiors, Heller embarks on a perilous global quest, utilizing his intelligence as a crucial asset in his pursuit of vengeance.
‘The Amateur’ Offers a New Kind of Action Hero
Critics have begun to share their thoughts after attending the film’s premiere. Discussing Film critic @filmwithyas expressed surprise at how engaging the film was, particularly highlighting Malek’s performance as an understated action protagonist.
“The Amateur took me aback. Honestly, I didn’t anticipate being so invested and entertained. I would have liked to see it embrace its darker comedic elements a bit more, as those aspects made it stand out,” they remarked.
Another viewer, @thejasvalentine, drew comparisons to the acclaimed series Killing Eve, applauding Laurence Fishburne’s involvement: “#TheAmateur is a slow-burn but a satisfying one! It has a cat-and-mouse vibe similar to Killing Eve. Fishburne continues to show why he is a legendary talent.”
In a reflection on his character, Malek emphasized his aim to challenge typical action hero stereotypes, aiming for a portrayal that resonates with audiences as authentically human. He articulated, “This role presented a chance to delve into the complexities of an ordinary individual thrust into extraordinary situations. I wanted to inhabit a character that felt realistic, who wasn’t the archetypal action hero yet had the capacity to act heroically in his distinctive manner.”
For more on Rami Malek’s thoughts on his character, you can visit The Times of India.
Key Information About The Amateur
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Director: James Hawes
Writers: Gary Spinelli
Source
movieweb.com