Jon Bernthal appeared in a supporting role in the 2025 film The Amateur, which despite its criticisms, is currently leading streaming charts in the U.S. on Disney+. The film’s rising popularity and audience enthusiasm suggest that a Jon Bernthal The Amateur sequel would have considerable potential for growth and deeper storytelling.
The Role Jon Bernthal Plays in The Amateur and Its Reception
Known widely for portraying Frank Castle, the Punisher, Jon Bernthal’s presence in The Amateur added notable weight, even with limited screen time. Released on April 11, the film features Bernthal as Jackson O’Brien, a skilled CIA operative who supports Rami Malek’s character, the main protagonist. Critics found his brief appearance underutilized, often remarking that his talent was not fully harnessed and his involvement did little to advance the plot.
The dynamic between Malek’s character and Bernthal’s seasoned operative provides a sharp contrast, highlighting the inexperienced hero alongside a hardened mentor figure. Bernthal’s character serves both as an ally and, at times, a cautionary voice during the protagonist’s pursuit of revenge. Nevertheless, many critics and spy-thriller enthusiasts found the film’s plot surface-level and lacking in depth.
Mixed Reviews Amid Streaming Success
The Amateur did not impress critics fully, receiving a mix of praise and criticism, especially concerning its originality and narrative complexity. Despite the film’s flaws, including accusations of derivative storytelling, it gained an 88% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, showing that viewers were more forgiving of its shortcomings. This audience approval has contributed to the film’s dominant streaming status, outpacing many other titles on platforms like Disney+ in the U.S.
Its popularity on streaming charts despite critical reservations illustrates that the film has resonated with a broad audience, possibly due to the strong performances and engaging spy-thriller elements centered on technology and strategic combat rather than conventional gunfights and physical brawls. The focus on clever tactics added a fresh angle to a familiar genre.
Potential Directions for a Sequel and Larger Franchise
The Amateur leaves several storylines and character arcs unresolved, creating a natural opening for a continuation. Particularly, the mentorship between Bernthal’s Jackson O’Brien and Malek’s protagonist is hinted at but left incomplete, suggesting a sequel could explore this relationship more deeply. This unfinished business offers a narrative foundation for further developing Bernthal’s character and expanding the franchise’s scope.
Despite the movie being criticized as an amateurish blend of spy clichés, the performances, especially those of Jon Bernthal and Rami Malek, earned appreciation. The sequel could polish its plot and originality while building on what made the first film appealing to audiences, including its emphasis on intelligence-driven conflict.
Why Jon Bernthal’s The Amateur Sequel Is Worth Anticipating
A sequel could alleviate many of the current film’s frustrations, such as underdeveloped characters and predictable storytelling. Given Bernthal’s undeniable screen presence and fan base from his previous roles, expanding his part could address critiques about wasted potential. Moreover, the growing attention The Amateur has garnered on streaming services shows there is significant interest that a follow-up could capitalize on.
With the spy genre attracting a loyal audience, an improved sequel featuring more in-depth character work, tighter narrative execution, and greater originality would be timely. The Amateur’s continuing success indicates that viewers are eager for more, potentially setting the stage for a stronger franchise centered on Bernthal’s CIA operative persona.
The Amateur is currently available to stream on Disney+ in the U.S. Audiences and critics alike will be watching closely to see if and when a sequel materializes.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Jon Bernthal’s religion?
A. Jonathan Edward Bernthal was born into a Jewish family on September 20, 1976, in Washington, D.C.
