In The Amateur, director James Hawes takes on a tale of revenge and espionage where political and personal tensions are intensely intertwined. Hugh Jackman plays CIA cryptographer Charlie Heller, a man whose life takes a tragic turn when his wife is killed in a terrorist attack in London. Faced with the agency's refusal to prosecute the culprits, Heller decides to take matters into his own hands, going so far as to blackmail his own hierarchy to obtain the training he needs to pursue justice. This suspenseful thriller, in which the hero is prepared to cross all limits, is based on a novel by Robert Littell, a crime writer renowned for his immersive plots. The presence of Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, and Laurence Fishburne alongside Jackman adds depth to the cast, promising intense acting for fans of dark dramas and spy mysteries.
The Amateur will be released in cinemas from April 9, 2025.
Synopsis: A CIA cryptographer who, after the tragic death of his wife in a terrorist attack in London, demands that his superiors go after them. When it becomes clear that they won't act due to internal priorities, he blackmails the agency into training him and letting him pursue them himself.
The Amateur should appeal to fans of spy thrillers and tales of revenge, like films like Taken or John Wick, which explore the inner rage of a protagonist on a relentless quest. This film may also appeal to fans of the Mr. Robot series, for the presence of Rami Malek in a highly dramatic role, and to those who appreciate international intrigues evoking the power plays and complexities of spy agencies, similar to works like Jason Bourne. By focusing on a broken but determined character, The Amateur attracts an audience that is enthusiastic about stories where the anti-hero takes control of his own justice, no matter the cost. However, those who prefer more psychological thrillers or less action-oriented suspense stories may find the plot too intense.
Based on a novel by Robert Littell, famous for his gripping stories revolving around the CIA, The Amateur brings a touch of realism rooted in geopolitical detail and clandestine operations. The film also marks a first collaboration between Hugh Jackman and James Hawes, a talented director who has worked on acclaimed series such as Black Mirror and Snowpiercer. As co-producer, Rami Malek is also involved behind the camera, testifying to his investment in the project.
The Amateur promises to be an intense espionage thriller, where the mix of personal vengeance and international stakes delivers a suspenseful tale driven by first-rate performances. For viewers looking for breathless, immersive stories, this film should stand out as a strong proposition, enriched by spy references and immersive directing style. This spy drama joins the ranks of international productions promising dramatic tension right to the end.
This article is based on information available online; we have not yet viewed the film or series mentioned.
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