A **modern reimagining** of Robert Littell’s acclaimed **1981 Cold War novel**, *The Amateur* aims to haul the world of espionage into the contemporary era. Under the deft direction of **James Hawes**, this film **exchanges the cloak-and-dagger ambiance** of its predecessor for a narrative steeped in **shadowy CIA operations, false flags**, and the grief-driven transformation of an ordinary man into an assassin. Featuring **Rami Malek** in an unexpected role as Charlie Heller—a reserved cryptographer breaking free from the confines of his desk—this thriller sets an enticing stage. However, as the narrative unfolds, *The Amateur* suffers from a **discrepancy between ambition and execution**, undermining its potential impact.
The narrative follows **Charlie Heller** (Malek), a brilliant yet unassuming CIA codebreaker who stumbles upon **unauthorized operations hidden** within the agency’s encrypted files. Following a devastating terror attack in London that claims his wife, **Sarah** (played by **Rachel Brosnahan**), Charlie’s sorrow morphs into an all-consuming obsession for the truth. Convincing his superiors—led by the cynical **Moore** (Holt McCallany)—to train him in combat and provide a new identity, Charlie embarks on a perilous journey from analyst to avenger. Under the watchful eye of the reluctant mentor, **Colonel Henderson** (Laurence Fishburne), he traverses international borders to seek out those responsible for his wife’s death. However, as he delves deeper, the line between **justice and vengeance** blurs, leading the story into **dark and confusing territory**.
The Good: A Gripping Start
In its **early moments**, *The Amateur* is both **tense and stylish**, successfully engaging the viewer. Malek excels at portraying Charlie as an **intellectually gifted outsider** thrust into a perilous world of espionage. The awkwardness he exhibits during his first moments in the field feels authentic, while the early pacing of the revenge-driven plot is brisk and captivating. The film benefits from a **stellar supporting cast**—Fishburne, McCallany, and **Catriona Balfe** all infuse their roles with gravitas. Moreover, the **breathtaking visuals** transport you across continents, providing a global backdrop to Charlie’s gripping journey. Standout moments, such as the clever rooftop glass pool scene in a fictional Madrid, and the quirky tutorial of lock-picking via **YouTube**, add a sprightly touch to the film’s character.
The Bad: A Sinking Plot
As the film progresses, however, *The Amateur* starts to lose its momentum. The storyline becomes **overloaded with conspiracies, revenge clichés**, and intricate political undertones, yet it fails to establish a consistent rhythm. Despite Charlie’s character development—a journey rife with potential—his arc appears deflated, lacking the urgency needed to drive the narrative forward. The pacing falters, with the emotional core—Charlie’s grief and quest for closure—taking a backseat. Despite the **layered groundwork**, the stakes feel diminished. Malek’s performance, though intellectually restrained, sometimes misfires; his emotional peaks occasionally come across as **muted** or out of sync with the unfolding drama.
The Verdict: A Thriller That Misses the Mark
*The Amateur*’s **most significant flaw** lies in its **moral ambiguity**. While venturing into profound questions of **justice, accountability**, and the CIA’s historical violence, it never fully engages with these complexities. Charlie’s desire for vengeance is palpable, yet the script offers him no substantive reckoning. The climactic confrontation with the antagonist devolves into a **philosophical disarray**, where the characters grapple with ideas without clear resolution. What could have been an edgy commentary on **power and consequences** culminates in an anti-climactic shrug, leaving audiences yearning for depth. For all its cinematic flair and contemporary intrigue, *The Amateur* ultimately opts for **safety over substance**, resembling a film **perfect for a long-haul flight**—visually appealing enough to engross you but too insubstantial to linger in your mind once you arrive at your destination.
