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Rami Malek’s ‘The Amateur’ Hits Theaters With Mixed Reviews

The spy thriller reimagines a Cold War-era novel for modern audiences, blending personal loss, unconventional action, and digital-age espionage.

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Custom image of Rami Malek for The Amateur interview
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Overview

  • Rami Malek stars as Charlie Heller, a CIA decoder turned avenger, in this adaptation of Robert Littell's 1981 novel updated for a post-9/11 context.
  • The film explores themes of grief, justice, and unconventional heroism, with Malek portraying a tech-savvy but inexperienced protagonist navigating the world of espionage.
  • Laurence Fishburne leads a strong supporting cast as Heller’s reluctant mentor, alongside Rachel Brosnahan, Jon Bernthal, and Caitríona Balfe.
  • Critics praise the film’s stylish direction and creative action sequences but note uneven pacing, underdeveloped emotional arcs, and a lackluster conclusion.
  • Released in theaters on April 11, 2025, early audience reactions are more positive than critical reviews, highlighting its engaging premise despite its flaws.