The rapid transformation of Charlie Heller, portrayed by Rami Malek, from a deskbound CIA decryption and analysis expert into a resourceful field agent is both exhilarating and intense. With an impressive knowledge of explosives and a knack for covert operations, Charlie stays one step ahead of mercenaries and the enigmatic brass at Langley. This dynamic narrative is central to the revenge thriller, The Amateur, which, while at times implausible, keeps audiences engaged throughout its rollercoaster of events.
Directed by James Hawes and adapted from the 1981 novel by Robert Littell, The Amateur updates its original Cold War setting to the present day. The film begins with Charlie leading a seemingly idyllic life with his wife, Sarah, played by Rachel Brosnahan, in a picturesque Virginia farmhouse. Their domestic tranquility is shattered when Sarah is tragically taken hostage during a terrorist attack while in London for a conference.
After witnessing the horrifying abduction and murder of his wife on a CCTV feed, Charlie is driven by grief and a desperate hunger for justice. However, the bureaucratic obstacles set by his supervisor, Moore (played by Hoyt McCallany), and colleague Caleb (played by Danny Sapani) only intensify his frustration. Ignoring their warnings, Charlie embarks on his own investigation, utilizing tools from the CIA database to track down the individuals responsible for Sarah’s death.
Determined to take matters into his own hands, Charlie blackmails Moore into providing him with field training, setting up a dead-man switch to ensure that incriminating evidence is released if he encounters danger. At Camp Peary, under the stern guidance of retired Colonel Henderson (played by Laurence Fishburne), Charlie learns the ropes of espionage. The film cleverly avoids turning Charlie into a typical action hero; despite his lack of shooting prowess, he quickly masters the assembly of IEDs.
Charlie's quest for vengeance takes him across various global locations, including London, Paris, Marseille, Madrid, and Istanbul. Along the way, he connects with a mysterious online asset known as Inquiline (portrayed by Caitríona Balfe), who is also driven by personal loss. The film injects humor into tense moments, such as when Charlie watches a YouTube tutorial on lock-picking, showcasing both his ingenuity and relatability.
While the film's escalating action may stretch credibility at times, director Hawes effectively utilizes his experience from acclaimed TV shows to deliver engaging action sequences. Notable scenes include inventive uses of technology and creative weaponization, like using pollen in a Parisian allergist clinic. The film's climax, set on a boat in the Baltic Sea, tests the limits of believability but is expertly executed.
The cast of The Amateur features a blend of talented actors, with Malek delivering a compelling performance as Charlie. His portrayal captures the character's profound sense of loss, intelligence, and unwavering focus amidst chaos. The film also showcases strong performances from underutilized actors like Julianne Nicholson, Jon Bernthal, and Michael Stuhlbarg, all of whom contribute depth to the narrative.
With stunning cinematography by Martin Ruhe, The Amateur strikes a balance between sleek and gritty visuals, showcasing picturesque locations in France, Turkey, and England. The film's dynamic score, composed by Volker Bertelmann, enhances the thrilling atmosphere, appealing to audiences who yearn for the classic spy thrillers of the '90s.
In conclusion, The Amateur stands out as a refreshing addition to the revenge thriller genre, showcasing a protagonist who relies on intelligence rather than brute force. Rami Malek's portrayal of Charlie Heller resonates with audiences, making this film a must-watch for fans of action-packed cinema. Despite its occasional implausibilities, the film captivates viewers with its engaging plot, impressive performances, and thrilling action sequences.
