The action sequences, though well executed, lack the raw, visceral intensity of similar films.

Malek appears somewhat out of his element in this roleCredit: AP
AFTER losing wife Sarah in a devastating terrorist attack in London, introverted CIA codebreaker Charlie Heller (Rami Malek) is consumed by grief and rage.

When the investigation stalls and his superior refuses to let him pursue the attackers, Heller takes matters into his own hands.

What follows is a tense but uneven spy thriller that benefits from some decent performances, but struggles to offer much originality.

Directed by James Hawes, The Amateur sets up an intriguing premise. Heller isn’t a highly trained assassin, he’s an intelligence specialist, a man more comfortable behind a computer than in the field.

Lacks intensity

His transformation into an unlikely vigilante makes this compelling, if clichéd.

Sadly, the Bohemian Rhapsody star appears somewhat out of his element in this role, highlighting his limitations within the action-thriller genre.

The script follows a well-worn revenge-thriller formula. The action sequences, though well executed, lack the raw, visceral intensity of similar films.

The pacing also stumbles at times — after a gripping first act, the middle portion drags and is bogged down by exposition and repetitive encounters with shadowy informants, corrupt officials, and an array of villains.

Jon Bernthal’s brief appearances as Jackson “the Bear” O’Brien feel strangely inconsequential. It’s hard to understand his casting in such a minor role, unless it’s a set-up for a sequel.

One of the interesting elements is the presence of Laurence Fishburne as Robert Henderson, Heller’s CIA trainer.

Henderson’s role is ambiguous — he’s both a mentor and an obstacle, offering guidance while keeping Heller on a tight leash.

Danny Dyer risks cop probe after he reveals weapon he keeps at home for protection – and how he gave one as gift to Dani

Mufasa The Lion King review – Disney can take pride in this beautiful prequel
Fishburne brings a commanding presence, arming Henderson with a mix of fatherly wisdom and cold pragmatism. It’s never clear where his loyalties lie, and this adds a layer of tension.

The film shines in its quieter moments. Heller’s struggle with grief and the psychological toll of his mission are handled with nuance.

The Amateur is a solid thriller that falls short of greatness. It’s worth seeing for the action, but is let down by predictable storytelling and Malek’s less than convincing delivery.

Still, I’d be lying if I said I was bored.