James Bond star Rami Malek’s overlooked 2025 thriller has just landed on Disney+ at no additional charge for subscribers.
Boasting an impressive cast including Hollywood veteran Laurence Fishburne, Superman’s Rachel Brosnahan and Outlander favourite Caitriona Balfe, this tension-filled espionage tale is essential viewing for those who missed its cinema release.
Despite failing to set the box office alight, the film has cultivated a devoted following of admirers who insist this distinctive interpretation of the spy genre deserves attention.
In The Amateur, Malek – who embodied the menacing Lyutsifer Safin in Daniel Craig’s swan song as Bond in No Time to Die – takes on the role of CIA cryptographer Charlie Heller.
Following the brutal killing of his wife Sarah (portrayed by Brosnahan), Charlie becomes consumed with vengeance and enlists Colonel Robert Henderson’s (Fishburne) assistance in hunting down the perpetrators, reports the Mirror.
Despite the revenge storyline appearing to cover well-worn territory, Malek defies conventional spy hero expectations, with numerous admirers praising The Amateur’s innovative genre approach.
One passionate Google reviewer declared: “In my own opinion, this movie is not just another “Spy” movie, where the protagonist is forced to avenge their fallen loved one or colleague.”
They continued, “the twists left me hanging for more” whilst describing Malek as a “perfect fit” for the central character.
In another glowing assessment, one viewer observed: “In The Amateur, espionage takes a refreshingly human turn.
“What makes The Amateur stand out is its refusal to lean into the overpolished spy fantasy. Charlie is no Jason Bourne or James Bond-and that’s exactly the point. He stumbles, he panics, and at times, he’s in over his head.
“But his love for his wife grounds every decision, and the film excels in letting us feel the weight of that loss without sacrificing pace or tension.”
Another viewer praised his performance: “Rami Malek’s acting was phenomenal, dare I say even Oscar worthy..”
They also noted: “This movie broke all other spy movies stereotypes, most if not all movies focus on the spy having better physical strength rather than intelligence. This movie proved different; intelligence is stronger than strength.”
“What I liked most about The Amateur is that it doesn’t recycle the same formula that countless other male revenge thrillers have used for ages,” another concurred.
A final fan raved in a five-star review: “This was a great watch because it’s not a typical Mission Impossible/James Bond phony flashy spy film, its so much more grounded than that.
“His only drive is for a love lost, and despite his stumbling and bumbling and asking for assassination tips, he doesnt quiver in fear….well yes he does, and a lot…thats what makes this movie such a standout.”
Despite achieving a rather modest 60 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, these cinema enthusiasts all believe The Amateur merits a second opportunity at triumph now that it’s available to watch from the comfort of your own home.
The Amateur is available to stream on Disney+.