The Amateur, released in 2025, is a gripping thriller that delves into the world of espionage and terrorism, following the story of a brilliant CIA decoder who seeks revenge after his wife's tragic death in a London terrorist attack. The film's premise is undeniably captivating, and its execution is marked by intense action sequences and a strong performance from its lead actor. However, despite its many strengths, The Amateur falls short of being a truly exceptional film due to its predictable plot twists and underdeveloped supporting characters.\n

One of the standout aspects of The Amateur is its ability to craft a sense of tension and urgency, drawing the viewer into the protagonist's desperate quest for justice. The film's pacing is well-balanced, moving seamlessly between moments of high-octane action and more introspective scenes that explore the emotional toll of the protagonist's mission. The action sequences are particularly noteworthy, with a blend of clever gadgetry and old-fashioned brawn that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. Furthermore, the film's themes of grief, trauma, and the morality of revenge are timely and thought-provoking, adding depth to an otherwise straightforward thriller narrative.\n

Despite these strengths, The Amateur is ultimately a flawed film that fails to fully realize its potential. The plot is overly reliant on convenient coincidences and predictable twists, which detract from the overall sense of realism and tension. Additionally, the supporting characters are woefully underdeveloped, feeling more like cardboard cutouts than fully fleshed-out people. The film's villains, in particular, are cartoonishly one-dimensional, lacking the complexity and nuance that would make them truly compelling adversaries. Overall, while The Amateur is a engaging and entertaining thriller, its lack of originality and depth prevent it from rising to the level of a truly memorable film. Nevertheless, fans of the genre will likely find plenty to enjoy, and the film's thought-provoking themes and strong central performance make it a worthwhile watch.