The Amateur

There's no artistic pretence to "The Amateur," which hasn't so much been directed as assembled... It’s not so different than other movies, after all, and that’s OK.

It's quite adept... A tribute to "nerd power."

The Amateur is a frustratingly old-school thriller in which the most modern element is not the top-notch computer hacking that's crucial to its plotline, but focusing its story of a "wife guy."

The most annoying thing about The Amateur is how competent it is.

Some of the script is too clever for its own good – so convoluted that you’re not quite sure where it’s going – but it’s fun and, at times, surprisingly poignant.

It’s a promising pulpy premise, but Malek feels too wan and underpowered in the charisma department to be carrying an action flick.

With its intelligent direction and smart script, as well as sharp editing by Jonathan Amos, perfect music, and wonderfully atmospheric cinematography, the well-acted “The Amateur” is as tense and believable as a successful spy movie should be.

...seemingly foolproof subject matter that’s employed to partially watchable yet mostly underwhelming effect...

The Amateur is a delightful foray into action for Malek. Even better, it’s an unexpectedly tender thriller with sharp action that uses psychological warfare to transcend mediocrity.

An engaging and entertaining action-thriller. A lot of credit is due to Rami Malek.