The Amateur (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
In the digital era where thrilling espionage flicks often follow a well-worn path, The Amateur (2025) emerges as a cerebral twist on the revenge thriller format. Directed by James Hawes and headlined by Oscar-winner Rami Malek, this spy thriller takes a quieter, brainier route through a story of grief, vengeance, and technology.
At the time of writing this article (April 2025), The Amateur has not yet been released on any streaming platforms. However, its production by 20th Century Studios—a subsidiary of Disney—suggests a strong likelihood that it may appear on Hulu or Disney+ in the coming months. For those eagerly waiting, keep an eye on JustWatch’s listing for real-time updates on availability. You can also visit the official site here for more release announcements.
PLAY NOW
Watch The Amateur 2025 Movie Online
Currently, The Amateur is only available in theaters. Streaming rights have yet to be confirmed, but based on prior 20th Century Studios releases, the film will likely follow a 45- to 90-day theatrical window before appearing on VOD and subscription platforms. Platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies may offer the movie for rental or purchase soon after.
For now, those interested in watching online can:
-
Bookmark the JustWatch page
-
Look out for digital pre-orders or “watchlist” features on Amazon and Apple
-
Follow 20th Century Studios’ social platforms for streaming updates
Plot Summary: A Revenge Thriller for the Digital Age
Rami Malek stars as Charles Heller, a brilliant but introverted CIA codebreaker with a towering IQ and zero field experience. His world unravels when his wife, Sarah (played briefly but emotively by Rachel Brosnahan), is killed in a terrorist attack in London. When the agency refuses to pursue justice, Heller embarks on a rogue mission fueled by grief and high-tech prowess.
Unlike traditional spy thrillers that revel in physical combat, The Amateur hinges on intellect. Heller isn’t a brawler—he’s a hacker, and the battlefield is digital. Using his decoding skills, he quietly dismantles layers of secrecy to track the terrorists himself.
This narrative shift makes The Amateur feel refreshing, even if it doesn’t always land emotionally or narratively.
Performance Highlights and Casting Strengths
Rami Malek’s portrayal of Heller is both engaging and uneven. He excels at embodying the socially awkward, reclusive genius—traits reminiscent of his Mr. Robot days. But viewers may feel frustrated by his underwhelming effort to hide his face, particularly given his character’s need for anonymity in the field.
Jon Bernthal (as “The Bear”) and Laurence Fishburne deliver sturdy, albeit underutilized, performances. Meanwhile, Holt McCallany steals every scene he’s in—bringing a gritty charm that audiences may remember from The Iron Claw and Mindhunter.
Fans of Rachel Brosnahan might be disappointed by her limited screen time. Given her talent, it’s a missed opportunity not to expand her role beyond the trope of the “dead wife.”
Pacing, Tone, and Narrative Flow
The movie has a slow-burn approach, more methodical than explosive. While some scenes crackle with tension—particularly one involving a swimming pool and an improvised trap—others lag under the weight of exposition.
There are tonal inconsistencies that slightly undercut emotional moments. For instance, the film’s second act attempts to explore grief with depth, but these poignant beats are often overshadowed by abrupt pacing shifts.
Fans expecting Jason Bourne-style choreography may leave disappointed, though those who appreciate a layered thriller driven by clever planning will find much to admire.
Is The Amateur Worth Watching?
Let’s break it down.
| Category | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Acting | Strong performances, especially by Malek and McCallany |
| Action | Minimal physical action; more intellectual tension |
| Story | Compelling premise but occasionally thin execution |
| Pacing | Drags in parts, especially the middle act |
| Emotional Impact | Strong start, but doesn’t fully capitalize on emotional beats |
| Rewatch Value | Moderate—better for fans of slow-burn thrillers |
Thematic Depth and Missed Opportunities
The Amateur touches on topics like grief, justice, morality, and the ethics of espionage. However, it often skims the surface, choosing plot over profound exploration. The film sets up a premise where intellect overcomes brute force, but doesn’t fully commit to examining the psychological toll that comes with such a solitary, digital warpath.
This is particularly noticeable in how it handles female characters. Many reviewers pointed out the frustrating “fridging” of Brosnahan’s character—where a woman’s death primarily serves to motivate a male protagonist.
Predictions: Where Will The Amateur Stream Next?
Given the film’s backing from 20th Century Studios, here are likely platforms for streaming availability in the U.S.:
| Platform | Type | Estimated Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Hulu | Subscription (SVOD) | Late Spring or Summer 2025 |
| Amazon Prime Video | Rental/Purchase | Likely by June 2025 |
| Apple TV | Rental/Purchase | Likely by June 2025 |
| Disney+ (Hulu Bundle) | Subscription (SVOD) | Possibly Summer 2025 |
| Google Play Movies | Rental/Purchase | Soon after theatrical run |
Bookmark this JustWatch link to monitor availability.
Final Thoughts: A Nerdy Spy Thriller with a Click
The Amateur isn’t a genre-defining classic—but it doesn’t try to be. What it offers is a quieter, brainy alternative to testosterone-fueled revenge flicks. It’s a throwback to analog espionage, updated with modern tools. While it doesn’t always stick the landing, there’s a certain satisfaction in watching the “weird little guy” outthink his enemies.
Whether you’re here for the espionage, the emotional arc, or just to see Rami Malek type furiously into a glowing laptop, The Amateur is worth a watch.
FAQs About The Amateur (2025)
Is The Amateur (2025) available to stream yet?
As of now, the film is only available in theaters. Streaming release dates are yet to be confirmed.
Where will The Amateur stream first?
It’s expected to debut on Hulu or Disney+ due to its 20th Century Studios origin.
Is The Amateur based on a book?
Yes, it’s adapted from a 1981 novel of the same name by Robert Littell.
What makes The Amateur different from other spy movies?
Instead of hand-to-hand combat, the protagonist uses intellect, tech skills, and strategy to take down enemies.
How long is The Amateur (2025)?
The runtime is approximately 2 hours.
Who is the main villain in The Amateur?
To avoid spoilers, the primary antagonist isn’t named explicitly—but the film builds toward a face-off with the group responsible for Heller’s wife’s death.
Absolutely—especially if you’re a fan of unconventional spy thrillers. While not perfect, The Amateur offers a refreshing, tech-driven revenge tale. It’s suspenseful, smart in spurts, and carried by Rami Malek’s unique charisma.
