In the ever-evolving landscape of streaming giants, where Netflix and Apple TV+ often steal the spotlight with their prestige productions, Amazon Prime Video quietly harbors a treasure trove of cinematic brilliance. Long before the current streaming wars intensified, Prime Video established itself as a keen curator, scooping up beloved film festival darlings and critically acclaimed features. These gems, though perhaps not always front and center, remain readily available, offering viewers a chance to catch up on films that might have initially slipped under the radar.
This guide is dedicated to uncovering the finest cinematic experiences Amazon Prime Video has to offer, all included with your Prime subscription. Forget rental fees; these are films ready to be streamed at your leisure. Should your viewing appetite extend beyond Prime Video, we’ve got you covered with curated lists for the best shows on Netflix, top movies on Disney+, and a deep dive into Amazon’s own stellar television programming.
Let’s embark on this cinematic journey, exploring a diverse range of genres and stories that showcase the breadth and depth of Amazon Prime Video’s film selection.
The Reign of Terror: Robert Eggers’ ‘Nosferatu’
More than a century after F. W. Murnau etched vampires into cinematic history with his iconic, though infamously derivative, ‘Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horrors,’ director Robert Eggers breathes terrifying new life into cinema’s original bloodsucker. For those familiar with Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ or Murnau’s silent masterpiece, the narrative will resonate: ambitious young estate agent Thomas Hutter (Nicholas Hoult) journeys to Transylvania to close a property deal with the mysterious Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård). Orlok’s fascination, however, soon fixates on Hutter’s wife, Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp), unleashing a torrent of plague, terror, and insatiable hunger. Eggers masterfully reinterprets this classic tale, presenting the unfolding horror with a morbidly captivating aesthetic. Each frame is a visual masterpiece, and Bill Skarsgård delivers a performance that is nothing short of demonic, bringing the rapacious Count Orlok to chilling, unforgettable un-life.
A Modern Whodunit Reimagined: Rian Johnson’s ‘Knives Out’
Benoit Blanc, the impeccably dressed and uniquely Southern detective, made his unforgettable debut in Rian Johnson’s ‘Knives Out.’ This modern homage to the classic whodunit sees Blanc investigating the suspicious demise of renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer). The investigation is a tangled web, complicated by Thrombey’s sprawling and dysfunctional family, each member harboring secrets and potential motives. With a cast that reads like a who’s who of Hollywood talent – including Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette, LaKeith Stanfield, and Ana de Armas as the Thrombey’s compassionate nurse, Marta – ‘Knives Out’ is a masterclass in genre reinvention. Director Rian Johnson deftly weaves meta-commentary and unexpected twists, almost single-handedly revitalizing the whodunit for a new generation.
The Birth of a Legend: ‘Air’
Long before Michael Jordan became a global icon and the Air Jordan sneaker a cultural phenomenon, he was a rookie, and Nike’s basketball division teetered on the brink of closure. In 1984, Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), a tenacious talent scout for Nike, spotted a game-changing prospect in North Carolina. His mission: to convince a hesitant company to bet its future on this rising star. ‘Air,’ directed by Ben Affleck, chronicles this pivotal moment with compelling drama. While the story inevitably celebrates the creation of the iconic sneaker, it transcends a mere sports shoe advertisement. Damon, alongside Jason Bateman and Chris Tucker, delivers strong performances, but it’s Viola Davis as matriarch Deloris Jordan who provides a magnetic and powerful, albeit somewhat underutilized, portrayal. Alex Convery’s script wisely centers the narrative on the human element – the personalities, the risks, and the unwavering belief that drove this monumental decision. In an era dominated by sequels and franchise fatigue, ‘Air’ stands out as a character-driven film, offering a refreshing and enjoyable viewing experience.
Satire and Success: ‘American Fiction’
Jeffrey Wright delivers a career-defining performance as Thelonious ‘Monk’ Ellison in ‘American Fiction.’ Monk, a respected literature professor and a struggling author, finds his manuscripts consistently rejected for not being ‘Black enough.’ Witnessing fellow novelist Sintara Golden (Issa Rae) gain acclaim for her stereotypical portrayals of Black culture, Monk crafts a pseudonymously written novel designed to lampoon the very tropes he despises. To his horror, this deliberately offensive work becomes an instant bestseller, leading to a massive book deal and a multi-million dollar movie adaptation. Monk finds himself spiraling as the public, and even his own family, embrace the very stereotypes he sought to critique. Based on Percival Everett’s novel ‘Erasure,’ ‘American Fiction’ is a darkly satirical comedy with a wickedly intelligent sense of humor, offering a much-needed commentary on race, identity, and the often absurd nature of the publishing industry.
Unlikely Allies, Hilarious Mayhem: ‘Heads of State’
When a gruff British Prime Minister, Sam Clarke (Idris Elba), and an action-hero-turned-US-President, Will Derringer (John Cena), find themselves stranded after Air Force One is shot down over the unforgiving Belarusian wilderness, their mutual animosity is put to the ultimate test. The result is ‘Heads of State,’ a brilliantly choreographed action-comedy that revitalizes the genre. Priyanka Chopra Jonas shines as the no-nonsense MI6 agent Noel Bisset, tasked with protecting the combative leaders from both internal and external threats. However, it’s the electric, often hilarious, chemistry between Elba and Cena that truly carries the film. Cena’s perfectly obnoxious portrayal is a masterclass in comedic timing, leaving audiences wondering if Elba’s exasperated reactions are entirely in character. This film is a glorious throwback to the best kind of action-comedy, delivering laughs and thrilling set pieces in equal measure.
Improvised Mayhem in ‘Deep Cover’
In ‘Deep Cover,’ a London detective named Billings (Sean Bean) finds himself at a dead end in his infiltration of a dangerous criminal organization. His unconventional solution? Recruit a troupe of struggling improv actors. This preposterous premise is mined for maximum comedic effect by Bryce Dallas Howard as Kat, an aspiring comedian desperate for her big break, and Orlando Bloom as Marlon, a fiercely dedicated method actor. Stealing every scene, however, is Ted Lasso’s Nick Mohammed as Hugh, a meek IT nerd who, despite his lack of acting prowess, embraces the increasingly farcical scenarios with an unwavering "yes, and…" attitude. ‘Deep Cover’ is a bizarre yet brilliant blend of slapstick comedy and Guy Ritchie-esque grit, a film that fully commits to its outlandish concept with infectious enthusiasm.
A Cult Classic of Cosmic Proportions: ‘The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension’
Prepare yourself for one of the wildest cinematic experiences you may have never encountered. 1984’s ‘The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension’ is, quite frankly, almost indescribable. At its core is Dr. Buckaroo Banzai (Peter Weller) – a polymath physicist, neurosurgeon, test pilot, and rock star – who finds himself battling the nefarious Dr. Emilio Lizardo (John Lithgow) over a revolutionary ‘oscillation overthruster’ capable of interdimensional travel. But this is merely the tip of the iceberg. The film plunges headfirst into a realm of alien invaders, doppelganger lovers, Orville Welles cameos, and the pervasive nuclear war paranoia of the mid-1980s. A high-concept sci-fi fever dream, ‘Buckaroo Banzai’ bombed at the box office despite a stellar cast including Jeff Goldblum and Christopher Lloyd. Yet, it has since ascended to cult status, a testament to its unique, unclassifiable brilliance. Even Peter Weller himself admits to struggling to articulate its essence, but one thing is certain: it’s an unforgettable experience.
Divine Intrigue: The Papal Election in ‘Conclave’
Arriving on Prime Video with impeccable timing, ‘Conclave’ offers a compelling, thought-provoking parable centered on the election of a new Pope. When the Pontiff passes, Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) orchestrates the papal conclave, the process by which a successor is chosen. However, given the immense power of the position, this election is far from a dry, procedural affair. As the candidates narrow to four, and the cardinals are locked away until a decision is reached, the Holy See is rocked by escalating tension, power plays, blackmail, and long-buried secrets. Based on Robert Harris’s acclaimed novel and directed by Edward Berger (‘All Quiet on the Western Front’), ‘Conclave’ is a meticulously researched and exquisitely shot drama. Its magnetic performances from a cast including Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini elevate the intricate political machinations into a gripping human drama.
A Mecha Masterpiece Concludes: ‘Evangelion 3.0+1.0: Thrice Upon a Time’
For devoted fans of the notoriously complex ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ franchise, ‘Thrice Upon a Time’ represents the grand culmination of 15 years of creative vision from director Hideaki Anno. Serving as the finale to the seminal 1995 TV anime and subsequent movie saga, this film is not a casual entry point for newcomers. However, Amazon’s acquisition of its international rights was a significant coup, bringing this long-awaited conclusion to a global audience. (For those eager to dive in, Prime Video conveniently offers the entire movie saga starting with ‘Evangelion 1.11’.) ‘Thrice Upon a Time’ brings a definitive close to the decades-long saga of traumatized teenage robot pilots battling biblically inspired angels, and the insidious manipulations of Shinji’s abusive father, Gendo. The film boasts breathtaking animation, immense emotional depth, and an ending that surprised even its most ardent followers – a textbook example of how to conclude a beloved series with unparalleled impact.
Tennis, Passion, and Betrayal: ‘Challengers’
From the visionary director Luca Guadagnino (‘Call Me by Your Name’) comes ‘Challengers,’ a steamy and intense exploration of a complex, three-way relationship between tennis prodigies Tashi (Zendaya), Patrick (Josh O’Connor), and Art (Mike Faist). Told non-linearly, the film artfully interweaves the trio’s present-day disaffection with their more vibrant and promising past. It’s an energetically shot and inventively directed sports drama, but the true tension lies in how the pursuit of Grand Slam glory and the fierce passions of their youth have irrevocably shaped their current lives. Tashi, sidelined by a career-ending injury, finds her marriage to Art in a competitive rut, while Patrick scrapes by in low-stakes matches. Yet, none of them have truly moved on from the tangled web of their shared history, making their impending on-court reunion a collision course of unresolved emotions and unspoken resentments.
A Journey Through Time and Self: ‘My Old Ass’
Aubrey Plaza continues her remarkable acting streak with a standout role in ‘My Old Ass,’ a smart and modern coming-of-age dramedy penned and directed by Megan Park (‘The Fallout’). Eighteen-year-old Elliott (Maisy Stella), on the precipice of college and significant life changes, celebrates her birthday with a psychedelic mushroom trip alongside her friends. During this altered state, she encounters Elliott, age 39 (Plaza) – her future self. The real mind-bending experience, however, begins when she sobers up, as Elliott starts receiving cryptic text messages from her future self, warning her to avoid a boy named Chad. ‘My Old Ass’ is a poignant blend of hope and melancholy, featuring powerful performances from both Maisy Stella and Aubrey Plaza. The film beautifully captures the messy, joyful potential of youth while resonating with the wistful "what ifs?" that accompany age, offering a delightful perspective regardless of your own life stage.
The Marathon of Transformation: ‘Brittany Runs a Marathon’
When Brittany (Jillian Bell) receives a stern warning from her doctor about her health, she seizes the opportunity to take control of her life. Her initial goal of running a single block quickly escalates into the ambitious decision to run the New York City Marathon. Based on the real-life experiences of his friend, director Paul Downs Colaizzo’s debut film doesn’t shy away from the physical and emotional toll of such a monumental undertaking. ‘Brittany Runs a Marathon’ is an inspiring testament to resilience, demonstrating that even when life throws its toughest challenges, the strength to get back up and pursue your goals is always within reach.
Unlikely Love Story: ‘The Idea of You’
The magic of a great rom-com often lies in its delightful improbability – the serendipitous meet-cute, the heightened emotions, the grand romantic gestures. ‘The Idea of You’ masterfully captures this essence as it chronicles the relationship between Solène Marchand (Anne Hathaway), a successful art gallery owner, and Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), a global music superstar who happens to be 16 years her junior. While the tabloids might have sensationalized their age difference, the film navigates this potential scandal with grace. As Solène and Hayes embark on a whirlwind, globe-trotting romance, the undeniable chemistry between Hathaway and Galitzine sweeps the audience into their passionate world. The film wisely explores the complexities of their dynamic, moving beyond a simple "will they, won’t they?" to a more nuanced "should they, shouldn’t they?" offering a thoroughly enjoyable and romantic escape.
Social Satire and Descent: Emerald Fennell’s ‘Saltburn’
Oxford student Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan) struggles to find his place within the elite British university until he forms an unlikely bond with the charismatic and affluent Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi). Felix, a scion of old money, invites the socially invisible Oliver to spend the summer at the opulent family estate, Saltburn. As Oliver ingratiates himself into the Catton family’s world, his obsession with Felix takes increasingly dark and disturbing turns. Writer-director Emerald Fennell (‘Promising Young Woman’) crafts a film that oscillates between black comedy and psychological thriller, employing a tight 4:3 aspect ratio that enhances the voyeuristic and unsettling nature of the narrative. ‘Saltburn’ sparked considerable debate upon its release, particularly regarding its exploration of class and social dynamics, but its audacious style and provocative themes undeniably demand attention.
Justice and Inequality in ‘The Burial’
Courtroom dramas often tread a fine line between gravitas and melodrama, but ‘The Burial’ infuses its serious subject matter with a potent, dark sense of humor. The film dramatizes the true story of funeral home director Jeremiah O’Keefe (Tommy Lee Jones) and his flamboyant attorney Willie E. Gary (Jamie Foxx) as they take on a powerful corporation in America’s "death care" industry. While not a comedy, the narrative exposes the stark inequalities and discriminatory practices faced by Black communities, who were regularly overcharged for funeral services. Foxx and Jones deliver commanding performances, but Jurnee Smollett, as Gary’s formidable rival attorney Mame Downes, is a revelation, threatening to steal every scene. Despite its somber themes, ‘The Burial’ ultimately proves to be a remarkably life-affirming tale of fighting for justice.
From Farmworker to Astronaut: ‘A Million Miles Away’
‘A Million Miles Away’ is an inspiring biopic that charts the extraordinary life of José Hernández, a former migrant farmworker who defied all odds to become the first Mexican-American astronaut. Michael Peña delivers a compelling performance as Hernández, portraying a man driven by an almost singular focus to reach space. Rosa Salazar is equally impressive as his wife, Adela, who, despite putting her own dreams on hold, remains a steadfast pillar of support. In lesser hands, this narrative could have veered into saccharine territory, but director Alejandra Márquez Abella strikes a delicate balance, focusing as much on the small beauties of earthly life as on the awe-inspiring potential of the cosmos. This film is a rare and delightful testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams.
Royal Romance and Campy Charm: ‘Red, White, and Royal Blue’
Let’s be clear: ‘Red, White, and Royal Blue’ is a champion in the category of "gloriously cheesy trash." Adapted from Casey McQuiston’s beloved novel, this intercontinental rom-com chronicles the evolving relationship between Alex Claremont-Diaz (Taylor Zakhar Perez), the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry (Nicholas Galitzine), the spare to the British throne. Their journey from bitter rivals to unlikely lovers is filled with laugh-out-loud moments, including an infamous wedding cake incident and a tabloid-ready tryst. Uma Thurman, as President Ellen Claremont, delivers a memorably eccentric performance with a distinct Texan flair. While undeniably ludicrous at times, the film’s overwhelming wholesomeness and upbeat tone make it an irresistibly enjoyable watch – the cinematic equivalent of a comforting slice of pizza.
A Darker, Grittier Hero: Hideaki Anno’s ‘Shin Masked Rider’
For those weary of predictable Hollywood superhero fare, ‘Shin Masked Rider’ offers a radical and captivating reinvention of a Japanese icon. Helmed by Hideaki Anno, the visionary behind ‘Evangelion’ and ‘Shin Godzilla,’ this film reimagines the 1971 television series ‘Kamen Rider.’ The story follows motorcyclist Takeshi Hongo (Sosuke Ikematsu), who is kidnapped by the terrorist organization S.H.O.C.K.E.R. and transformed into a powerful cyborg. Escaping before his programming can be fully erased, Hongo turns his newfound abilities against his captors. Anno’s interpretation leans heavily into the body horror inherent in the cyborg concept, while also posing profound questions about maintaining humanity in a dehumanizing world. The film is more violent than expected, depicting the gruesome consequences of superhuman combat, yet it never feels gratuitous. While fans of the original ‘Kamen Rider’ will undoubtedly find deeper layers of appreciation, ‘Shin Masked Rider’ is a thrilling and fresh take on the superhero genre for any viewer seeking something unconventional.
Political Satire and Social Commentary: Sacha Baron Cohen’s ‘Borat Subsequent Moviefilm’
Sacha Baron Cohen reprises his iconic role as Borat Sagdiyev, the clueless Kazakh reporter, in ‘Borat Subsequent Moviefilm.’ Fourteen years after his initial escapade, Borat returns to America, this time accompanied by his teenage daughter (played by Irina Nowak). Their mission: to present the daughter as a gift to prominent American politicians, including Mike Pence and Rudy Giuliani. In true Boratic fashion, the mockumentary follows their chaotic journey through Trump’s America, capturing candid – and often shocking – interactions with unsuspecting individuals, from QAnon followers to debutantes. Even the COVID-19 pandemic is ingeniously woven into the comedic narrative. While Baron Cohen’s signature shock humor and deadpan delivery are present, this sequel also manages to land some pointed critiques of bigotry and political extremism. Though perhaps more focused on eliciting nervous laughter than exposing America’s ‘heart of darkness’ as its predecessor did, ‘Borat Subsequent Moviefilm’ remains a relevant and hilariously uncomfortable watch.
The Immigrant Experience and Supernatural Dread: ‘Nanny’
Aisha (Anna Diop) is a Senegalese immigrant working as a nanny for a wealthy New York family, all while striving to earn enough to bring her young son and cousin to join her in America. However, her future is precariously tied to her employers, who often withhold her pay and seem content to leave her solely responsible for their daughter, Rose. As the power imbalance and the strain of separation take their toll, Aisha experiences increasingly disturbing dreams of drowning, amplified by her anxieties about abandoning her own child. Nikyatu Jusu’s directorial debut, ‘Nanny,’ masterfully juxtaposes the harsh realities of the immigrant experience in modern America with a palpable sense of supernatural dread. It eschews simplistic narratives of hope and opportunity for a profound exploration of cultural displacement and lost community. ‘Nanny’ employs a slow-burn, psychological approach to its horror, but Anna Diop’s phenomenal performance anchors the film, while its meticulous pacing and gorgeous cinematography ensure that every haunting frame lingers.
A Royal Reunion with a Twist: ‘Coming 2 America’
Reviving beloved franchises after decades can be a risky endeavor, but Eddie Murphy’s return as Prince Akeem (now King) in ‘Coming 2 America’ proves it can be done with flair and success. More than thirty years after the original ‘Coming to America,’ Akeem travels back to the U.S. in search of a son he never knew he had. The film offers a delightful reunion with familiar faces from the first installment, before cleverly reversing the formula and transporting American characters to the opulent kingdom of Zamunda. Director Craig Brewer (‘Hustle & Flow’) crafts a sequel that boasts a sharper, more globally aware script than its predecessor, defying expectations to stand proudly alongside the original’s legacy.
A Real-Life Rescue Thriller: ‘Thirteen Lives’
Director Ron Howard assembles a formidable cast, including Viggo Mortensen, Colin Farrell, and Joel Edgerton, for ‘Thirteen Lives,’ a gripping dramatization of the 2018 Tham Luang cave rescue. The film recounts the harrowing ordeal of a Thai junior soccer team and their assistant coach, trapped in a flooded cave system. As an international rescue effort mobilizes, the treacherous journey through miles of underwater caverns becomes increasingly perilous. Howard masterfully captures every claustrophobic and nail-biting moment, delivering a tense cinematic experience. With ingeniously shot aquatic sequences, ‘Thirteen Lives’ is a powerful testament to one of the most challenging and inspiring rescue missions ever performed.
Conversations That Shaped History: ‘One Night in Miami…’
Based on Kemp Powers’ acclaimed play, ‘One Night in Miami…’ imagines a pivotal evening in 1964, bringing together four titans of culture, music, and sports: Malcolm X, Jim Brown, Sam Cooke, and Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay). The film depicts their meeting in a Miami motel room following Ali’s momentous victory over Sonny Liston. Within the intimate confines of the room, these larger-than-life figures engage in profound discussions about their roles in the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement and their impact on society. Regina King’s directorial debut perfectly captures the charisma and intellect of these iconic men. Kingsley Ben-Adir delivers a fiery performance as Malcolm X, while Aldis Hodge, Leslie Odom Jr., and Eli Goree are utterly magnetic as Brown, Cooke, and Ali, respectively. The film’s theatrical roots shine through in its intimate setting, but its thematic scope is expansive, resonating with the weight of history.
The Unfolding Truth: ‘The Report’
Amazon Studios’ ‘The Report’ offers an engrossing portrayal of the U.S. Senate’s investigation into the CIA’s controversial "enhanced interrogation" program. The film meticulously details how the program was conceived, who was aware of its existence, and how the CIA allegedly manipulated facts to support its efficacy. Adam Driver shines as Daniel Jones, the lead investigator who embarks on an increasingly solitary quest for truth, battling relentless political resistance and interference from the CIA. Driver’s performance is, as expected, superb, and the film’s critical acclaim, reflected in its high Rotten Tomatoes score, is well-deserved for its compelling and fact-based narrative.
Confronting Silence: ‘Sound of Metal’
Riz Ahmed delivers a tour-de-force performance as Ruben, a punk-rock drummer and recovering addict whose life is thrown into turmoil when he begins to experience profound hearing loss. Faced with the agonizing choice between sacrificing his career or his hearing, Ruben spirals into despair. His girlfriend, Lou (Olivia Cooke), intervenes by checking him into a rehabilitation center for the deaf, forcing him to confront his own demons and the daunting uncertainty of his future. Ahmed is nothing short of spectacular as the tormented Ruben, while Cooke’s portrayal of Lou, who grapples with her own struggles, including self-harm, is equally riveting. In a fitting touch, ‘Sound of Metal’ masterfully utilizes sound design, and its deliberate absence, to create one of the most moving and impactful dramas in recent years. Director Darius Marder crafts an unforgettable cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll.
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