Amazon Prime Video is home to a diverse selection of must-watch movies across genres, from suspenseful thrillers to heartwarming dramas and mind-bending sci-fi. Whether you're in the mood for a compelling true story or a light-hearted comedy, this curated list of must-watch movies on Amazon Prime has something for everyone.
1. The Big Sick (2017)
Description: A heartfelt romantic comedy based on a real-life love story.
Overview and Features
Directed by Michael Showalter, "The Big Sick" follows the story of Kumail, a Pakistani-American comedian, and Emily, a graduate student, who fall in love despite cultural differences. When Emily falls seriously ill, Kumail navigates cultural expectations and family tensions, finding himself caught between his own desires and his family’s expectations.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Known for its humor and emotional depth, "The Big Sick" tackles themes of love, culture, and acceptance. Kumail Nanjiani and Zoe Kazan deliver authentic performances, making the film both funny and touching. Its blend of romance and drama with humor provides a refreshing perspective on love and relationships, making it a must-watch for fans of romantic comedies on Amazon Prime.
Unique Description: A charming, heartfelt comedy on love and cultural differences.
2. Manchester by the Sea (2016)
Description: A moving story of grief, family, and self-rediscovery.
Overview and Features
Directed by Kenneth Lonergan, "Manchester by the Sea" follows Lee Chandler (Casey Affleck), a man haunted by his past, who returns to his hometown after the death of his brother to care for his teenage nephew. As he navigates old memories and family responsibilities, Lee confronts the trauma that changed his life.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Casey Affleck’s Oscar-winning performance brings depth and authenticity to this story of loss and healing. The film’s raw emotions and beautifully crafted narrative make it an emotional journey for viewers, and its exploration of grief, forgiveness, and redemption is unforgettable. It’s an ideal choice on Amazon Prime for those who enjoy thought-provoking drama.
Unique Description: A powerful exploration of grief, forgiveness, and family bonds.
3. Knives Out (2019)
Description: A modern murder mystery with a classic whodunit twist.
Overview and Features
Directed by Rian Johnson, "Knives Out" is a star-studded mystery about the suspicious death of a wealthy novelist, Harlan Thrombey. Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is called in to unravel the mystery, uncovering secrets, betrayals, and hidden motives within the eccentric Thrombey family.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Knives Out" is celebrated for its clever plot, witty dialogues, and strong ensemble cast, including Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ana de Armas. The film’s unique mix of suspense and humor, along with its homage to classic mysteries, makes it a captivating and entertaining watch on Amazon Prime.
Unique Description: A thrilling whodunit with humor and clever twists.
4. Parasite (2019)
Description: A darkly comedic thriller exploring themes of class and deception.
Overview and Features
Directed by Bong Joon-ho, "Parasite" follows the poor Kim family as they infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Park family by taking up various household jobs. As their schemes grow, the tension escalates, revealing stark realities of class and privilege in society.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Winning the Academy Award for Best Picture, "Parasite" is lauded for its compelling storytelling, suspenseful plot, and social commentary. Bong Joon-ho masterfully combines humor with drama, making "Parasite" a must-watch for fans of dark comedies and thrillers. Its unique themes resonate with audiences worldwide.
Unique Description: A suspenseful thriller highlighting class and human ambition.
5. Sound of Metal (2019)
Description: A drummer’s journey of resilience as he faces hearing loss.
Overview and Features
Directed by Darius Marder, "Sound of Metal" follows Ruben, a heavy-metal drummer whose life is turned upside down when he starts losing his hearing. Faced with this life-altering change, Ruben must come to terms with his new reality and find new ways to define himself.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Riz Ahmed’s powerful performance as Ruben is both raw and inspiring, earning him an Academy Award nomination. The film’s sound design is particularly impactful, immersing viewers in Ruben’s experience and creating a profound sensory journey. This moving drama on Amazon Prime explores resilience, identity, and the meaning of acceptance.
Unique Description: A raw, inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery.
6. The Report (2019)
Description: An intense political thriller exposing a government cover-up.
Overview and Features
Directed by Scott Z. Burns, "The Report" stars Adam Driver as Daniel J. Jones, a Senate investigator tasked with examining the CIA’s post-9/11 detention and interrogation program. The film explores Jones’s dedication to exposing truth amid political pressure, uncovering disturbing details about government-sanctioned torture.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
With gripping performances and a well-paced narrative, "The Report" highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in government. Adam Driver’s portrayal of Jones is powerful, and the film’s depiction of real-life events makes it a compelling watch for fans of political thrillers on Amazon Prime.
Unique Description: A thrilling exposé of government secrecy and accountability.
7. One Night in Miami (2020)
Description: A fictional account of a historic meeting between legends.
Overview and Features
Directed by Regina King, "One Night in Miami" imagines a night in 1964 when Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke gather to discuss their roles in the civil rights movement. The film offers insight into the struggles, aspirations, and courage of these influential figures.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
With powerful performances by Kingsley Ben-Adir, Eli Goree, Aldis Hodge, and Leslie Odom Jr., this film is both thought-provoking and inspiring. It explores themes of activism, friendship, and personal responsibility, making it an impactful watch on Amazon Prime for history enthusiasts and drama fans alike.
Unique Description: An inspiring portrayal of icons discussing change and activism.
8. Honey Boy (2019)
Description: A semi-autobiographical story of childhood trauma and healing.
Overview and Features
Directed by Alma Har’el, "Honey Boy" is based on Shia LaBeouf’s own experiences as a young actor. The film explores his relationship with his father, addiction struggles, and the impact of fame at a young age. Shia LaBeouf plays the role of his own father, adding authenticity to the narrative.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Honey Boy" is a raw and moving portrayal of family, trauma, and recovery. The film’s exploration of father-son dynamics and childhood resilience strikes a powerful chord, making it a deeply personal and compelling movie. This Amazon Prime drama offers a unique look at fame, family, and forgiveness.
Unique Description: A heartfelt journey of trauma, fame, and personal healing.
9. The Vast of Night (2019)
Description: A mysterious sci-fi thriller set in a small 1950s town.
Overview and Features
Directed by Andrew Patterson, "The Vast of Night" takes place in a small town in New Mexico during the 1950s. As a young switchboard operator and a radio DJ discover a strange frequency on the airwaves, they embark on an investigation that leads to surprising discoveries about extraterrestrial life.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"The Vast of Night" combines sci-fi suspense with an eerie atmosphere and exceptional storytelling. Its unique dialogue-driven narrative and visual style make it an immersive experience. For fans of classic science fiction, this Amazon Prime gem is an intriguing and suspenseful journey into the unknown.
Unique Description: A chilling sci-fi thriller uncovering mysterious signals.
10. Uncle Frank (2020)
Description: A heartfelt road-trip story about family, acceptance, and love.
Overview and Features
Directed by Alan Ball, "Uncle Frank" follows Frank Bledsoe, a gay literature professor, who travels back to his hometown for his father’s funeral. Accompanied by his niece, Frank must confront his past and find acceptance within his family. The film portrays the struggles of identity and self-acceptance.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Paul Bettany’s moving performance as Frank adds emotional depth to this heartfelt drama. "Uncle Frank" sensitively addresses issues of family, identity, and the importance of acceptance. This Amazon Prime film is both touching and enlightening, making it a memorable journey for audiences.
Unique Description: A touching tale of self-acceptance and family bonds.
FAQs
1. What are some must-watch movies on Amazon Prime?
Some top picks include "The Big Sick," "Knives Out," "Sound of Metal," and "Parasite."
2. Are these movies suitable for family viewing?
Most movies on this list are family-friendly, though some, like "The Report" and "Manchester by the Sea," address mature themes.
3. Do these movies have English subtitles on Amazon Prime?
Yes, Amazon Prime offers English subtitles for most movies, enhancing accessibility.
4. Are there any inspiring true stories in this list?
Yes, "The Big Sick" and "One Night in Miami" are based on real events and figures, providing inspiration and historical context.
5. Which film is best for fans of suspense?
"Knives Out" and "The Vast of Night" are excellent choices for viewers who enjoy suspenseful and thrilling storylines.
From thrilling mysteries to heartfelt dramas, Amazon Prime’s must-watch movie collection offers something special for every viewer. Each film on this list delivers unique storytelling, memorable characters, and valuable lessons, making it ideal for an engaging movie night. So gather your friends and family, grab some popcorn, and dive into these top films on Amazon Prime for an unforgettable cinematic experience.