Rami Malek’s 8 Best Roles That Prove He’s Hollywood’s Most Versatile Star Ahead of “The Amateur”
Rami Malek’s career has been nothing short of remarkable, with a wide range of roles that showcase his immense talent and versatility. From dramatic biographical portrayals to intense psychological thrillers, Malek has built an impressive body of work that spans television, film, and voice acting.
Rami’s newest role is “The Amateur“. “The Amateur” is an upcoming American action spy thriller, directed by James Hawes and based on Robert Littell’s 1981 novel. The film stars Rami Malek as Charles Heller, a CIA cryptographer who embarks on a solo mission to track down the terrorists responsible for his wife’s death in a London attack.
After being thwarted by internal conflicts within the CIA, Charles blackmails the agency to train him as a field operative. The film also features Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, and Laurence Fishburne, among others. “The Amateur” is in theaters this weekend. Here, we take a look at some of Rami Malek’s most iconic roles, in order of release, and explore what makes each performance unforgettable.
Rami Malek: Best Roles
1. The War at Home (2005-2007)
Before his rise to stardom, Rami Malek played the quirky and endearing Kenny in the sitcom “The War at Home”. While this may not be the role that made him famous, it was an important stepping stone in his early career. Malek’s portrayal of the socially awkward, but well-meaning, younger brother offered a glimpse of his comedic timing and charm that would later define his career. Although the show was short-lived, Malek’s role was a memorable part of its appeal.
2. “Night at the Museum” (2006)
Malek’s big-screen debut came in “Night at the Museum”, where he played Ahkmenrah, the ancient Egyptian pharaoh whose tomb comes to life at night. Despite being a supporting character in a family-friendly film, Malek’s performance as the intelligent and kind-hearted pharaoh stood out. His role in the film introduced him to a broader audience and hinted at the depth of his acting abilities, even in a lighter, comedic setting.
3. “The Pacific” (2010)
In “The Pacific”, an epic World War II miniseries from the creators of “Band of Brothers”, Malek played Snafu, a soldier who struggles with the horrors of war. His portrayal of the complicated, often cynical character was a departure from the lighter roles he had taken up until that point. Malek’s performance was raw and intense, showcasing his ability to tackle more serious, dramatic material. This role marked a significant moment in his transition to more complex and challenging characters.
4. “Mr. Robot” (2015-2019)
“Mr. Robot” was the role that catapulted Rami Malek to international fame. Playing Elliot Alderson, a cybersecurity engineer and hacker with dissociative identity disorder, Malek delivered a mesmerizing performance that earned him critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His portrayal of the deeply troubled, anti-establishment hacker resonated with audiences and critics alike, making “Mr. Robot” one of the most impactful TV shows of the decade. This role solidified Malek as one of Hollywood’s most talented young actors.
5. “Bohemian Rhapsody” (2018)
In one of his most transformative performances, Malek took on the role of legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody”. His portrayal of the flamboyant, complex rock star earned him numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Actor. Malek’s physical transformation and the emotional depth he brought to Mercury’s character were praised by critics and audiences, with his performance widely regarded as a defining moment of his career. The film not only showcased Malek’s versatility but also cemented his status as a Hollywood A-lister.
6. “No Time to Die” (2021)
In “No Time to Die”, Malek played the sinister villain Safin, a character who presented a chilling contrast to the suave, cool demeanor of James Bond. Malek’s portrayal of Safin was understated yet menacing, adding an element of psychological depth to the typical Bond antagonist. His performance in this action-packed blockbuster demonstrated his ability to work within large-scale productions while still leaving a lasting impression with his nuanced character work.
7. “The Little Things” (2021)
Malek starred alongside Denzel Washington and Jared Leto in “The Little Things”, a crime thriller that delves into the psychological toll of pursuing a serial killer. Malek played Jim Baxter, a detective who teams up with a former officer (Washington) to solve a series of murders. While his character appeared to be more traditional in comparison to the complex roles he’s known for, Malek’s subtle portrayal of Baxter’s emotional and moral struggles added layers to the film, elevating his performance in an otherwise dark and gritty narrative.
8. “Oppenheimer” (2023)
In Christopher Nolan’s historical drama “Oppenheimer”, Malek took on the role of David Hill, a scientist working on the Manhattan Project. Though a relatively minor role in a star-studded ensemble cast, Malek’s performance was an important contribution to the film’s atmosphere of tension and ethical conflict. The film’s intricate exploration of history and human emotion allowed Malek to once again demonstrate his skill in portraying characters involved in high-stakes, morally complex situations.
Rami Malek: Career Trajectory
Rami Malek’s career trajectory has been a testament to his ability to take on diverse roles, each of which has allowed him to shine in different ways. From his early comedic appearances to his transformative biographical portrayal of Freddie Mercury, Malek’s versatility as an actor has made him one of the most exciting talents in Hollywood. Whether tackling emotionally charged dramas, historical figures, or thrilling action roles, Malek continues to impress and evolve as a performer, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting his next project. “The Amateur” is in theaters on April 11.
