Rami Malek Takes on a Unique Role in "The Amateur"
Rami Malek shines in his latest film, The Amateur, where he uniquely embodies the character of Charlie Heller—a bereaved rookie vigilante who is more brain than brawn. Unlike the muscular titans of the spy genre, such as Jason Bourne and James Bond, Charlie is a cryptographer at the CIA, bringing a refreshing twist to the usual espionage narrative.
A Thrilling Premise
At the heart of The Amateur lies a compelling question: What happens when the smartest man in intelligence is thrust into the field? This film flips the script, envisioning a scenario where an IT guy takes on the roles typically reserved for action heroes. Imagine Q from the James Bond franchise stepping into 007’s shoes—this is how Charlie Heller navigates a world filled with danger and intrigue, driven by the pain of losing his wife, Sarah, played by the talented Rachel Brosnahan.
The movie opens with a poignant scene: a morning filled with warmth and affection that hints at impending tragedy. When Sarah departs their idyllic farmhouse, it becomes clear that comfort will soon give way to chaos. Charlie’s grief propels him on a vengeful mission to hunt down the terrorists responsible for his wife’s death.
A Unique Take on Revenge
Rather than following the traditional revenge narrative where a meek character transforms into a macho hero, The Amateur maintains Charlie’s quirky demeanor throughout his journey. Charlie’s resourcefulness becomes a double-edged sword; at times it leads to humor, such as when he watches a YouTube tutorial on lock-picking right at the door he intends to breach. In stark contrast, he displays darker ingenuity when he transforms a skyscraper swimming pool into a precarious trap that could rival those set by Jigsaw from Saw.
Rami Malek’s Distinctive Performance
Malek, returning to familiar territory after his success in Mr. Robot, leans into his trademark quirks—those bug-eyed gazes and nervously puckering lips. Is he one of the quirkiest stars in Hollywood? Certainly, his approach infuses Charlie with a unique personality that sets him apart from traditional action heroes. However, as Charlie grapples with emotional turmoil, the film occasionally resorts to flashbacks of Brosnahan’s character as a device to evoke empathy, which, while engaging, feels somewhat manipulative.
Interestingly, The Amateur boasts a script penned by Ken Nolan, known for his military-themed work on Black Hawk Down, further underlining the film’s serious undertones amid its more adventurous elements.
A Stellar Supporting Cast
The film features an impressive supporting ensemble, with Laurence Fishburne portraying a retired colonel mentoring Charlie, adding gravitas to the plot as he balances guidance with threats. Jon Bernthal also makes a compelling cameo, showcasing a character that, while seemingly superfluous to the overall plot, provides a dynamic contrast to Charlie’s character.
A Throwback to Classic Spy Thrillers
Clocking in at just over two hours, this film harks back to an era of disposable airport spy thrillers that Hollywood no longer produces in abundance. Adapted from a Cold War-era novel by Robert Littell, the film employs modern technology while retaining a certain nostalgic charm. The clichés of espionage—progress bars crawling, surveillance footage jittering, and lines of code fading in and out—serve as reminders of the genre’s past.
While The Amateur offers an entertaining experience, it is crucial to recognize its divergence from the contemporary reality of espionage. In today’s world, a rogue cryptographer like Charlie Heller would likely find that merely a Signal account and a dream could expose the shady dealings of intelligence agencies, cutting through the cinematic glamour of spy craft.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, The Amateur is a thrilling ride that offers an intriguing blend of intellect and action. Rami Malek’s performance as the unexpected hero Charlie Heller sets the stage for a unique exploration of grief and revenge, providing viewers with a captivating narrative that departs from genre conventions. Whether you’re a fan of spy thrillers or simply appreciate Malek’s talent, this film delivers an engaging experience that’s worth your time.
