[This article contains significant spoilers regarding The Amateur, currently screening in theaters.]
A Thrilling Climactic Moment
The latest film, The Amateur, reveals new layers of tension as Rami Malek’s character, Charles Heller—a CIA decoder—faces a heart-pounding confrontation atop a pool in Madrid. In this key scene, when Charles fails to extract information about the identity of his wife’s murderer, he activates a remote control, resulting in the collapse of the pool’s glass floor. The character Mishka Blazhic, played by Marc Rissmann, plummets to his demise, intensifying the film’s narrative of vengeance.
Behind the Scenes of the Glass Pool Collapse
According to director Hawes, the dramatic pool scene draws inspiration from a 1981 novel featuring a grand aquarium where individuals swim. He elaborated, explaining how the creative team transformed that concept into a breathtaking skytop pool setting. To achieve this effect authentically, they constructed a life-sized portion of the pool in a studio setting, allowing for practical explosions and a real drop sequence, rather than relying solely on CGI.
Real Locations, Real Challenges
This bustling scene was filmed at the actual Embassy Gardens in London, but not without its challenges. The filmmakers faced logistical hurdles, including the need to secure permission for drone footage during the shoot. Producer Dan Wilson recounted, “The pool scene was our first and second day of shooting. The combination of complex set pieces and frequent location changes made it particularly challenging.”The pool was the most formidable set piece, requiring meticulous planning to integrate with the film’s daily location-driven schedules.
A Single Take for Maximum Impact
Wilson further explained that to capture the pool’s dramatic destruction authentically, the team executed that pivotal moment in one continuous shot. He noted, “We didn’t want to reset that scene, as its impact was integral to the storyline.” This focus on authentic storytelling not only keeps viewers engaged but also accentuates the film’s emotional weight.
Charles Heller’s Transformation
Throughout the film, Charles evolves from a timid “geek,” hesitant to control even his own car, into a liberated individual embodying newfound strength and bravery. Hawes remarked, “By the end, he takes to the skies.” This transformation symbolizes both personal freedom and the fulfillment of his wife’s wishes for justice.
The Enduring Appeal of Spy Thrillers
In recent years, the popularity of spy thrillers like Black Doves, The Day of the Jackal, and Slow Horses (also directed by Hawes) has surged. Hawes discussed the genre’s gripping allure, particularly in today’s uncertain times. He stated, “People are drawn to stories that turn the world on its head, where the normal becomes chaotic, and heroes are forced to navigate treacherous waters.” This captivates audiences who resonate with themes of survival against overwhelming odds.
Catch The Amateur in Theaters
The suspenseful narrative and captivating visuals make The Amateur a film worth experiencing in theaters now.