Rami Malek’s “The Amateur” Hits Theaters: What’s The Amateur’s Rotten Tomatoes Score and Early Buzz?

The spy thriller The Amateur, starring Rami Malek, has landed in theaters, and early reviews are sparking curiosity among fans and critics alike. With a gripping premise about a CIA cryptographer turned vigilante, the film promises intense action and emotional depth.

But what’s The Amateur’s Rotten Tomatoes Score, and how are audiences and critics responding? Let’s dive into the buzz surrounding this star-studded release, explore the critical reception, and uncover what makes this movie a must-watch—or a pass.

What Is The Amateur About?

The Amateur follows Charlie Heller (Rami Malek), a brilliant but introverted CIA decoder whose life unravels after his wife, Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan), is killed in a London terrorist attack.

Frustrated by the agency’s inaction, Heller embarks on a global quest for revenge, relying on his intellect rather than brute force. Directed by James Hawes and based on Robert Littell’s 1981 novel, the film boasts a stellar cast, including Laurence Fishburne, Jon Bernthal, and Caitríona Balfe.

The story blends cerebral espionage with emotional stakes, setting it apart from typical action-packed spy flicks. Critics note its grounded approach, with Malek’s portrayal of a “nerdy” hero adding a fresh twist to the genre. But does the execution live up to the hype?

How Is The Amateur’s Rotten Tomatoes Score Shaping Up?

As of April 12, 2025, The Amateur’s Rotten Tomatoes Score stands at a “fresh” 66% based on 61 critic reviews, reflecting a generally positive but mixed reception. The audience score, however, shines brighter at 88% on the Popcornmeter, suggesting moviegoers are more enthusiastic than critics. According to Rotten Tomatoes, “Jason Bourne goes geek, The Amateur proves that heart and a good cast can elevate a seen-before premise into an action-packed, thrilling ride.”

Some reviewers praise the film’s production quality and Malek’s committed performance, while others critique its predictable plot and uneven pacing. For instance, David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter calls it a “real movie” in an era of bland streaming thrillers, but Alison Willmore of Vulture argues it lacks emotional depth despite Malek’s efforts.

What Are Critics Saying About Rami Malek’s Performance?

Rami Malek’s turn as Charlie Heller is a focal point of early reviews. Critics widely commend his ability to portray a grieving, unlikely action hero with nuance. Leigh Paatsch of Herald Sun lauds Malek for underplaying the role, noting, “The under-rated Malek toils away admirably.”

Similarly, LaughingPlace.com gives him 4.5 out of 5 stars, highlighting his “layered performance” that taps into grief and moral uncertainty.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert.com finds Malek’s quirky portrayal distancing, and AwardsWatch suggests he fails to elevate a thinly written role. Despite these critiques, Malek’s star power and chemistry with Brosnahan remain undeniable draws.

Is the Plot of The Amateur Holding Up?

The film’s narrative—a coder-turned-avenger chasing justice—has sparked debate. Variety calls it “watchable but frictionless,” blending familiar thriller tropes without breaking new ground. Times of India praises its cerebral approach, citing creative revenge scenes like Heller trapping a foe in a pollen-filled chamber.

Yet, The Guardian points out flaws in the final confrontation, describing it as “muddled.”

Supporters argue the emotional core, anchored by Heller’s loss, keeps the story engaging.

A subplot involving CIA internal dynamics adds intrigue, though some reviews note unresolved threads. IndieWire appreciates the film’s ambition, stating it “packs a television season’s worth of plot into two hours.”

How Does The Amateur Compare to Other Spy Thrillers?

Fans of James Bond or Jason Bourne may wonder how The Amateur stacks up. With a Rotten Tomatoes score lower than Malek’s No Time to Die (83%), it doesn’t reach the heights of those franchises. ScreenRant notes that its mid-60s score makes it hard to stand out in a crowded genre, but the 88% audience approval suggests potential for word-of-mouth success.

Unlike the polished heroes of typical spy films, Heller’s reliance on brains over brawn offers a refreshing change. MovieWeb acknowledges the predictable plot but calls it “a pretty good time,” while Forbes highlights its “thoughtful” tension. For genre enthusiasts, it’s a solid, if not revolutionary, addition.

Why Are Audiences Loving The Amateur?

While critics are divided, audiences are giving The Amateur high marks. The 88% Popcornmeter score reflects enthusiasm for Malek’s relatable hero and the film’s emotional pull.

Posts on X echo this sentiment, with users like @CasablancaRic praising Malek’s commanding presence, despite plot issues. Early screenings, like one shared by

@filmwithyas, highlight surprise at the film’s entertainment value.

The strong supporting cast, sleek visuals, and locations like Istanbul and Paris also resonate with viewers. For many, the film’s heart—Heller’s quest for justice—outweighs its flaws, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Some Closing Thoughts:

TheThe Amateur delivers a mixed bag: a compelling lead performance, a decent The Amateur’s Rotten Tomatoes Score, and a story that entertains but doesn’t reinvent the wheel. Malek proves he can carry a thriller, and audiences are eating it up, even if critics want more.

If you’re craving an emotional spy flick with brains over brawn, it’s worth a theater visit.

Catch The Amateur now and decide for yourself—is it a hidden gem or a near miss?