Rami Malek ‘Never Thought’ He’d Lead an Action Movie. Now He’s ‘Quite the Badass’ in “The Amateur” (Exclusive)

Rami Malek Surprised by Leading Role in Action Movie ‘The Amateur’

In a recent exclusive with PEOPLE, Rami Malek shared his excitement about leading an action movie, a genre he never thought he would be a part of. The actor, known for his award-winning performances, graced the New York City premiere of ‘The Amateur’ on April 2. Malek takes on the role of Charlie Heller, a brilliant but introverted CIA decoder seeking vengeance for his wife’s tragic murder.

Malek expressed his gratitude for being able to showcase the film in such a grand setting, highlighting the significance of starring in an action-packed feature. He reflected on his journey, mentioning how being the lead in an action film was beyond his wildest expectations. The movie brings Malek back to his roots, reminiscent of his acclaimed character from the series ‘Mr. Robot’, as he portrays a character whose intellect is his most potent weapon.

‘The Amateur’ doesn’t just bank on Malek’s talent; it also features an ensemble cast including Rachel Brosnahan and Laurence Fishburne. The trailer teases a plot where characters underestimate Malek’s character, only to be astonished by his prowess as a field agent. The film is a captivating blend of suspense, action, and intrigue that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Malek elaborated on his relatable connection with his character, noting how Charlie is often underestimated and overlooked, traits that resonate with many viewers. He wanted to portray a character who defies expectations and uses his ingenuity to emerge as a formidable force, a narrative that he believes will appeal to a wide audience.

Apart from Malek’s stellar performance, Rachel Brosnahan plays a crucial role as Charlie’s late wife, setting the plot in motion. Her character’s tragic demise sets off a chain of events that propel Charlie on a global quest for justice. The film boasts a talented supporting cast, including Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson, Adrian Martinez, and Danny Sapani.

Based on Robert Littell’s novel of the same name, ‘The Amateur’ promises to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience for fans of the action genre. The movie is scheduled for release on April 11, offering audiences a chance to witness Malek’s transformative portrayal of a character driven by revenge and redemption.

As Malek embarks on this new chapter in his career, he remains grateful for the opportunity to challenge himself in an unfamiliar genre. ‘The Amateur’ not only showcases his versatility as an actor but also underscores his dedication to delivering compelling performances that resonate with audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for the release of ‘The Amateur’ to witness Malek’s evolution into a bona fide action star.