This article contains spoilers for *The Amateur*. In a gripping moment that perfectly encapsulates the tension of the film, Rami Malek found himself unexpectedly on the receiving end of two slaps from Laurence Fishburne during a pivotal scene. This moment not only highlights the film's dramatic intensity but also demonstrates the unique chemistry between the actors. Based on the novel by Robert Littell, *The Amateur* follows Malek as Charlie Heller, a brilliant CIA decoder driven by vengeance against the terrorists who took his wife’s life, portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan.
Charlie Heller is depicted as a data analyst with a remarkable talent for decoding information, but he lacks any real-world field experience. When Heller boldly informs his superiors of his intention to confront his wife's killers, they dismiss his plan as unrealistic. However, the narrative takes a turn when he blackmails them into providing the essential training he needs to pursue his mission. This sets the stage for a series of intense training sequences that reveal Heller's struggle to transform from an analyst to a potential killer.
One of the most striking scenes occurs during Heller’s training, where Colonel Henderson, played by Laurence Fishburne, seeks to illustrate a crucial point: despite Heller’s training, he may never possess the innate qualities required to be a killer. In a shocking moment, Henderson forces a loaded gun into Heller's hands, instructing him to aim it at his chest and pull the trigger. When Heller hesitates, Fishburne delivers two hard slaps, pushing him to confront his fears and limitations. "You can't do what I do, no matter how much I train you," Henderson asserts, emphasizing Heller's inherent inability to take a life.
The slap was not part of the original script; it was an improvisation by Fishburne that caught Malek completely off guard. Director James Hawes described the experience as shocking for both the cast and crew, noting the small set’s limitations in terms of blocking and movement. "The slap was entirely Laurence's invention and decision," Hawes explains. "It was pretty shocking for Rami, and you can see it on his face." The unexpected nature of this act added a layer of authenticity to the scene, marking a pivotal moment in Heller's character development.
In subsequent interviews, Malek expressed his appreciation for the genuine reactions captured on camera. "It happened quite a few times," he shared, highlighting how the aggressive delivery added to the scene's intensity. Despite the physicality of the moment, Malek emphasized the professionalism of Fishburne and the collaborative spirit between the actors. "He is a true professional," Malek noted, reinforcing the dynamic energy they created together on set.
Hawes now believes that the slap is integral to the scene's impact, enhancing the overall narrative. He notes that audience members are often taken aback by the intensity of the moment, which resonates throughout the theater. "It had a danger to it," Hawes remarked, "but it also contained a care." This duality reflects the film's themes of vengeance and the personal cost of seeking retribution. Fishburne reflects on this scene as one of the film's highlights, emphasizing the moral questions it raises about Heller's mission.
Ultimately, the confrontation between Heller and Henderson serves as a seminal moment in *The Amateur*, illustrating the internal struggle of a man pushed to the limits by grief and rage. As the film progresses, Heller proves Henderson wrong, using his intellect and creativity to achieve his goals. This powerful dynamic between Malek and Fishburne not only enriches the storyline but also leaves a lasting impression on viewers, marking *The Amateur* as a compelling espionage thriller.
For more updates on films, sign up for Entertainment Weekly's free newsletter to receive the latest trailers, celebrity interviews, and film reviews.
