The Amateur is an action-packed thriller featuring Malek as Charles Heller, a skilled CIA decoder whose life takes a tragic turn when his wife is killed in a terrorist attack. Driven by a desire for answers and revenge, Heller embarks on a perilous journey to confront the individuals responsible for his wife’s untimely death. Lacking formal training in espionage, Heller soon becomes a formidable threat to the very agency that once employed him, raising the stakes in a gripping narrative filled with tension and unexpected twists.
This thrilling film draws its inspiration from the 1981 novel by Robert Littell and stands as an independent project, with no connections to any franchises. Directed by James Hawes, the film opens doors to fascinating narratives that resonate with themes of vengeance, crime, and intelligence. While audiences need not watch other films prior to its release on April 11, 2025, several related movies can enrich the viewing experience and excite potential fans.
1 The Accountant
A Mathematics Savant Works for Criminals
To immerse viewers in the action thriller genre, The Accountant (2016) serves as an excellent starting point. The film revolves around Christian Wolff, portrayed by Ben Affleck, a brilliant mathematician masquerading as a CPA while secretly managing the finances of dangerous crime syndicates. As Wolff becomes entangled with a new client, a discrepancies arises—leading to an escalating body count as he fights for survival.
The connection between The Accountant and The Amateur lies in their shared themes of intelligent protagonists navigating violent and criminal underworlds. Both films feature Jon Bernthal, amplifying the anticipation for The Amateur. The intense narratives of both films promise to enthrall audiences, setting the stage for a captivating cinematic experience.
2 Patriots Day
Law Enforcement Responds to the Boston Marathon Bombing
Another must-see film related to The Amateur is Patriots Day (2016), narrating the harrowing events surrounding the Boston Marathon bombing. The film features a stellar cast, including Mark Wahlberg and Kevin Bacon, showcasing the tenacity of law enforcement as they race against time to capture the culprits. Garnering an impressive 80% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this film captures raw emotion alongside a gripping storyline.
Rachel Brosnahan, who plays Heller’s wife in The Amateur, is also featured in Patriots Day as a bombing victim. While The Amateur leans more into the realm of fiction, both films share a sense of urgency in defeating violent adversaries, offering viewers engaging storytelling combined with moments of profound impact.
3 Nobody
A Man Protects His Wife & Son
In Nobody (2021), also centered around the theme of avenging loved ones, we meet Hutch Mansell, a seemingly ordinary man grappling with personal failure as he is unable to protect his family during a home invasion. Fueled by anger, Hutch transforms from a passive individual into a fierce protector. Bob Odenkirk delivers a powerful performance that showcases the transformation of an everyman into an unlikely hero.
While these two films diverge in their plots, the central theme resonates strongly. Both Heller and Mansell share a driving force of vengeance and an unwavering desire to safeguard their loved ones. Although Nobody balances its action with moments of humor, it provides an exhilarating companion piece to prepare for the intensity of The Amateur.
4 No Time To Die
Malek Plays the Ultimate Bond Villain
Before taking on the role of Heller, Malek showcased his versatility in No Time To Die (2021), where he portrays Lyutsifer Safin, a brilliant, sinister scientist with ambitions to dismantle Spectre. This James Bond film received positive reviews, particularly praising Malek’s captivating portrayal of Safin, echoing the darker aspects of his character in The Amateur.
Malek’s diverse roles emphasize his range as an actor, adeptly navigating between morally ambiguous heroes and compelling villains. Watching No Time To Die can give audiences insight into his portrayal of Heller, as both characters are intellectual powerhouses driven to extreme lengths by their circumstances.
5 Die Hard
A Police Officer Single-Handedly Takes Down Terrorists
No list of action thrillers would be complete without referencing the classic Die Hard (1988). Featuring Bruce Willis as John McClane, a New York police officer caught in a frenzy when terrorists take over a Christmas party, this film exemplifies the essence of the action genre. McClane’s determination to protect his wife elevates him to heroic status, reflecting the very essence of Heller’s perilous journey in The Amateur.
The elements of survival and resourcefulness in Die Hard serve as an inspiring movie benchmark for The Amateur. Just as McClane confronts formidable adversaries, Heller embodies resilience against overwhelming odds. This classic film remains a timeless experience that is not only entertaining but sets the stage for the thrills awaiting audiences in the upcoming release of The Amateur.