The new film “The Amateur,” based on Robert Littell’s 1981 bestseller, centers on a familiar premise: an unassuming individual transforming into a formidable force. Rami Malek plays Charlie Heller, a desk-bound CIA decoder. The film invites you along on his chaotic odyssey after the execution-style killing of his partner, Sarah Heller, played by Rachel Brosnahan. This disastrous occurrence launches Charlie into a quest for revenge and a web of global conspiracy.
From the outset, the film establishes a dark tone as it introduces Sarah Heller’s gruesome murder captured on CCTV footage. This heart-rending moment leads to a wonderful transformation in Charlie. He transforms from a non-confrontational corporate worker bee to a tireless warrior for justice. He swears to take revenge on those who killed his wife. This decision begins an ambitious odyssey that leads him from London to Paris, Marseille, Madrid, Istanbul, Romania and Russia.
Charlie’s mission to track down four assassins linked to the mystery villain (played by Michael Stuhlbarg) Through his pursuit of these gang members, audiences experience his metamorphosis into a lethal badass character. Stuhlbarg’s character is the mastermind behind Sarah Heller’s assassination and plays a pivotal role in Charlie’s quest for retribution.
Though the film is hard to watch at times, it features stunning performances from Malek and Stuhlbarg. Julianne Nicholson really stands out as CIA officer Alice O’Brien, providing key support to Charlie in his mission. Jon Bernthal rounds out the ensemble, oozing charisma as “The Bear,” a swaggering secret agent who deepens the story and sharpens the film’s dramatic edge.
Director James Hawes ( The Amateur ) brings the sharp visual style learned on recent, celebrated series such as Slow Horses, Snowpiercer and Black Mirror. Our goal with this film is to unite heartstopping action with heartstopping emotion. From its star-studded cast to its promising premise, the film held a lot of promise. It has been rightfully criticized for not living up to this potential.
