Rami Malek Discusses His Role as Producer on The Amateur and the Lasting Impact of Heath Ledger’s Iconic Joker Performance

Oscar winner Rami Malek has transitioned into a full-fledged producer with his involvement in *The Amateur*, a role he credits to his experience with the cutting room floor of Paul Thomas Anderson’s *The Master*.

Malek invested significant effort into a monologue, only to find it missing when he finally viewed Anderson’s 2012 film. This disappointment sparked his ambition to become a producer, allowing him a voice in important creative decisions. Since then, he has earned an Emmy for *Mr. Robot*, an Oscar for *Bohemian Rhapsody*, appeared in Christopher Nolan’s *Oppenheimer*, and portrayed the villain in the Broccoli family’s final James Bond film, *No Time to Die*.

These achievements have given Malek the leverage to pursue his dream of producing a film, which led him to *The Amateur*, directed by James Hawes. The spy thriller, penned by Ken Nolan and Gary Spinelli, follows CIA analyst Charlie Heller as he seeks vengeance for his wife’s (Rachel Brosnahan) death in an unconventional manner.

“I feel fortunate to have produced this film alongside Hutch Parker and Dan Wilson, with major studios like Disney and 20th Century. Years ago, I never thought this would be possible,” Malek stated in support of *The Amateur’s* April 11 theatrical release.

In the trailer for *The Amateur*, Heller walks away from an explosion, and instead of embodying the typical unfazed action hero, Malek chose to flinch. This choice was inspired by the reaction of Heath Ledger’s Joker during the delayed explosion scene in *The Dark Knight*.

“If someone like The Joker is going to flinch, the authenticity that it brought to that moment stuck with me,” Malek explained.

Malek also connected with his co-star Laurence Fishburne over the types of roles they often receive. Fishburne frequently plays mentor figures, such as Morpheus in *The Matrix* or Furious Styles in *Boyz n the Hood*. Malek is often cast as intelligent characters, like Elliot Alderson in *Mr. Robot* or nuclear physicist David L. Hill in *Oppenheimer*. While *The Amateur* leans into his intellectual side, he still aspires to portray a more traditional action hero in the future.

“Guillermo del Toro once told me I exude a certain brilliance on camera, and I’ve embraced that. Those aren’t my words, but it doesn’t mean I can’t take on the role of a tough guy,” Malek shared. “It would be another challenge I’d like to explore.”

From 2015 to 2019, Malek’s acclaimed series, *Mr. Robot*, created by Sam Esmail, eerily predicted real-world events while blending reality with fiction. The show revolved around Malek’s hacker character, Elliot, who aimed to dismantle the corrupt global elite. Its themes remain relevant, prompting Malek to consider the possibility of a fifth season or a feature film.

“We’d need to discuss it with Sam. I was just with him in London. I was genuinely sad to see the series end, and while some might feel it was premature, it’s important to go out on a high note, especially with a TV series. I believe we achieved that.”

In a recent discussion, Malek elaborated on how he and Hawes distinguished his computer acting in *The Amateur* from his portrayal of Elliot.

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You weren’t just the lead actor and producer on this project; you also acted as an unofficial casting director. For instance, you approached Rachel Brosnahan at the Met Gala and contacted Caitriona Balfe directly. Did you feel the need to take the initiative since *The Amateur* is your project?

I wouldn’t claim full credit, but I understand your point. Our casting director, Martin Ware, worked tirelessly to put the cast together; I merely made a few calls. The role of a casting director is crucial, which is why it’s now recognized as an Oscar category. They truly deserve that acknowledgment.

After collaborating on *The Pacific*, Tim Van Patten and I formed a lifelong friendship. His directing work on shows like *The Sopranos*, *Game of Thrones*, and *Masters of the Air* has been remarkable. We often discuss our chosen family and the people we want to work with. If you have the chance, why not reach out to those you know will challenge and inspire you to be your best self?

Speaking of *The Pacific*, that’s where I first met Jon Bernthal. I still remember our boot camp together and thinking, “What an incredible talent; his future is going to be remarkable.” It’s surprising that some people are still discovering his immense talent. This sentiment extends to the entire cast; while locations can be cinematic, it’s the unique talent each actor brings that truly elevates the project.

Charlie is often underestimated, and he cleverly uses this to his advantage. Do you find that you thrive in situations where you’re underestimated?

Reflecting on the producing aspect, I often sought ways to contribute to the editing process without being overly assertive. My experience on *Mr. Robot* taught me a great deal about filmmaking through collaboration with Sam and our department heads, especially cinematographer Tod Campbell. My interest in cinematography and framing developed the moment I stepped onto a set.

I’ve always thought I might not be the first choice for producing, directing, writing, and acting all at once. That day may come, but for now, I’m grateful for the opportunity to produce alongside Hutch Parker and Dan Wilson with major studios like Disney and 20th Century. Years ago, I doubted this would be possible, so perhaps I underestimate myself to push beyond what’s expected of me.

Last November, we discussed Charlie flinching after the explosion, and you noted it reminded you of Heath Ledger’s Joker. Was that the actual inspiration for your choice, or did it come to you afterward?

I remember that conversation well, and it gained a lot of attention. I’ve thought about how an actor physically navigates such scenes with explosions happening behind them. It seems nearly impossible to just walk away. I considered how one might train for that, and remembered Nolan’s preference for practical effects. If someone like The Joker flinches, that authenticity resonates.

I admire actors who manage to maintain composure in intense moments, and I thought about the opposite approach—finding humor in the flinch, as it’s unexpected. This authenticity was something we aimed to incorporate throughout the story.

This type of hero experiences the stages of grief, and James Hawes and I meticulously ensured he exhibited significant anger, denial, and acceptance. We thrust these motivations into an epic espionage thriller, pushing him into morally complex and inventive situations.

Charlie realizes early on that he’s not suited to be the guy with a gun, but I believe you could tackle that role if you wanted. Is that something you would pursue in the future?

Absolutely. Laurence spoke about being cast as a mentor archetype, a role he’s held since his youth. Guillermo del Toro once told me I exude a certain brilliance on screen, which I’ve embraced. Those aren’t my words, but it doesn’t mean I can’t portray someone armed. It would present a new challenge, and I’d like to explore it. Perhaps Charlie could evolve into a more professional role, similar to Jon Bernthal’s character, The Bear. It’s a possibility I haven’t ruled out.

You excel in computer acting. While there are limited ways to portray it, did you consciously attempt to differentiate your approach from Elliot’s, perhaps in posture or other aspects?

James Hawes and our cinematographer Martin Ruhe discussed a unique over-the-shoulder shot called a “cheeker.” It provided a glimpse of me from a quarter profile, allowing audiences to recognize me. We incorporated reflections in Charlie’s glasses, aiming for authenticity without relying on digital effects. I considered when he would wear his glasses—an essential tool for him, akin to an action hero’s weapon. If he loses them, he’s in trouble. Capturing those small details enhances the authenticity of his character.

You’ve likely noticed that the world still needs saving, indicating that Elliot Alderson’s Mastermind is still relevant. Can I persuade you to consider a fifth season or perhaps a feature film?

We’d need to consult Sam about it. I was just with him in London. He’s currently working with Julia Roberts on an exciting project. We often reminisce about our time working together, which was extraordinary for both of us. I was genuinely sad to see that character and series come to an end, and while some argue it was premature, it’s crucial to exit on a high note, especially with a TV series. I think we accomplished that.

While there may be some similarities between Elliot and Charlie, they are fundamentally different characters. I cherish my time portraying Elliot and believe *Mr. Robot* was a groundbreaking show that altered perceptions of what could be depicted on television. I hope *The Amateur* can achieve a similar impact.

*The Amateur* opens in theaters nationwide on April 11.

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