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In the upcoming espionage thriller “The Amateur,” Oscar winner Rami Malek steps into the role of Charlie Heller, an unlikely action hero. Based on Robert Littell’s 1981 novel and previous film, the 2025 remake follows Charlie, a highly intelligent CIA decoder with an IQ over 170, living a peaceful life with his wife Sarah, played by Rachel Brosnahan. Their idyllic world is shattered when Sarah is taken hostage and murdered during a business trip to London. Grief-stricken and desperate for justice, Charlie embarks on a personal mission to track down those responsible. However, he is met with resistance when his CIA superiors refuse to take action. In a bid to force their hand, Charlie blackmails his bosses for mission-specific training and sets out on a global quest for revenge.
Malek, known for his role as the villain in “No Time to Die,” is excited to portray a character with such a unique and unexpected journey. “I like doing unpredictable characters,” Malek shared during the film’s London premiere. “Here’s a story with an underdog at the center, someone who no one believes is capable of achieving what he ultimately does. That’s something everyone can relate to.”
Malek not only stars in the film but also serves as a producer. He believes the themes of the original story, set during the Cold War, still resonate today. “The underdog story is timeless,” he said. “It’s important to show someone who speaks truth to power, like Charlie does, and that’s something I think we need on the big screen.”
Veteran actor Laurence Fishburne plays Henderson, a seasoned CIA operative tasked with preparing Charlie for fieldwork. The two characters, who initially clash due to their differences, ultimately develop a mutual respect as they navigate Charlie’s quest for vengeance. Fishburne promises the audience an unpredictable ride filled with twists and turns.
Directed by James Hawes, “The Amateur” also stars Caitriona Balfe, Holt McCallany, and Jon Bernthal. The film will begin its global theatrical rollout on April 9, offering viewers an action-packed and thrilling story of revenge and redemption.
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