The 25 best movies on Amazon Prime to watch right now
Nov. 1, 2024From spy classics like No Time to Die to horrors like Hellraiser, here are the best movies on Amazon Prime
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From recentnew movieslike Challengers to family classics like Jurassic Park, Prime Video’s catalog is impressively varied, making it one of thebest streaming servicesaround. Here we offer a mix of Amazon Studios' originals and films acquired by the streaming service to make sure there are options for all kinds of viewers.
We are aware that scrolling down on dozens of titles can be overwhelming, so we’ve selected 25 must-watch movies on Amazon Prime for you to pick from.
The list includes some of thebest action movies on Amazon Primeand animated offerings, as well as the most entertaining fantasies,best Amazon Prime horror movies, and sci-fi.
Don’t forget to check out our lists of thebest shows on Amazon Primeand thebest movies on Netflixfor more recommendations for the holiday break, but for now, let’s dive into all that Prime has to offer this December!
Challengers
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Not really into tennis? Don’t worry — Luca Guadagnino’s steamy drama Challengers is much more than a sports movie, as the lines between love, sex, friendship, and rivalry become blurred on and off the court.
Zendaya, Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor are a winning trio in this electrifying movie that follows the relationship between two friends and tennis players who become adversaries after falling in love with the same woman. However, nothing is as simple as it might seem, as the erotic tension between the friends and the colossal ambitions of Zendaya’s Tashi turns the movie into a horny exploration of power and desire.
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross' techno score is absolutely phenomenal throughout the movie, as the ending will leave you on the edge of your seat.
For more information, read ourChallengers reviewand our piece on whyChallengers doesn’t need sex scenes to make it the sexier movie of the year.
Joaquin Phoenix stars as a traumatized hitman hired to rescue a young girl from a sex trafficking ring in Lynne Ramsay’s violent psychological thriller. As the job spirals out of control, his sordid past and PTSD catch up with him in this intense, atmospheric ride.
Check out ourYou Were Never Really Here reviewfor more details!
James Bond’s loyalty to M is tested when MI6 is attacked by an enigmatic villain with a personal vendetta. With stunning action scenes, crisp tailoring, and surprising emotional depth, Skyfall redefined 007 on the heels of Casino Royale.
The most stylish and sharp of Daniel Craig’s Bond movies, Sam Mendes took the 007 moniker to new heights. Skyfall is clever, well-acted, and exceptionally gorgeous to look at. The production quality is simply sublime, with snappy choreography, steamy romance, and classic Bond costume design all aiding the suspension of disbelief. It has one of the weirdest modern Bond villains too, if you’re partial to mustache-twirling.
For more on one of thebest thriller moviesever made, read our five-starSkyfall review.
Star and director Dev Patel plays an underground fighter on a revenge quest in modern India, blending gritty combat with pointed social commentary. Expect high-octane thrills in this unique, neon-soaked, and culturally rich action flick.
Monkey Man may have some John Wick copycat vibes, particularly in the fight stylings and cinematography, but the context within the story makes it stand out as its own thing. Patel’s direction makes the most out of a tight budget, and the hand-to-hand action is visceral. Monkey Man may have flown under the radar upon release, but it’s worth seeking out.
This is a must-watch, and you can learn more about it in our in-depthMonkey Man review.
Bond returns for one last mission in No Time to Die, confronting a dangerous new adversary with ties to his past and future. It’s an exciting, spirited ride that concludes Craig’s run in this iconic role.
It’s a splendid send-off. Elegant, action-packed, sleek, big and loud. It’s easy to understand why MGM insisted on lengthy release delays to ensure this film played exclusively in theaters. So much devotion went into making No Time to Die as cinematic as possible, reminding audiences of the pristine quality they’ve come to expect from 007. And more than anything, this final bow was willing to evolve Bond in new, emotionally satisfying ways that made the goodbye pack a punch.
While we wait for thenext James Bondto appear, check out ourNo Time To Die review.
Year:1993Director:Steven SpielbergAvailable on:Amazon Prime Video UK
If you are based in the UK, then you’re in luck because one of the best action sci-fi movies is now available on Prime. Jurassic Park is the best dinosaur movie around and was responsible for kickstarting a global franchise that is still ongoing today. Based on Michael Crichton’s 1990 novel of the same name, the film is set on a fictional island where a billionaire is trying to open a new amusement park with real dinosaurs that have been bought to life by ancient DNA.
However, as you can probably guess, the dinosaurs end up out of their cages and hunting everything in their path. Spielberg’s film finds the perfect balance between wonder and excitement. You’ll be left amazed at the dinos as well as terrified of them on your small screen.
Year:1995Director:Mamoru OshiiAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US
One of thebest animemovies ever, Ghost in the Shell is a layered and heady journey into cerebral territory. Slightly terrifying, beautifully animated, and unquestionably iconic, if you’re on a mission to check off essential anime, Ghost in the Shell should be on that list — and definitely not the live-action remake. It’s one of those stories you might have to mull over a bit before fully getting it, but it’s worth the legwork.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles return in a fresh, Into the Spider-Verse animated style as they try to stop a mutant army from taking over New York City. High energy, lots of comedy, and plenty of ninja turtling for all involved here, making this one of thebest family movieson Amazon Prime to watch right now.
Mutant Mayhem puts its own twist on the textured, comic-book style of animation popularized by the aforementioned Marvel movie, and the result is a colorful and frenetic ride sure to keep the kids off those damn iPads. It has the usual Ninja Turtle beats, too, with the gang trying to win the hearts of New Yorkers and live a semi-normal teen life.
Read ourTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem reviewfor more details!
A group of smooth-talking criminals, led by the slippery Mr. Wolf, try to go straight but find it harder than they thought it would be. With clever humor and slick animation, this heist movie is basically Suicide Squad fun for all ages.
The Bad Guys takes a bit to get fully running but really hits its stride once the story picks up. The direction is dynamic and makes full use of the limitless bounds of animated filmmaking, and the visual style is refreshingly different. It’s not the finest of Dreamworks' movies, but it’s an enjoyable ride with likable characters nonetheless.
Puss embarks on a brave journey to find the mythical Last Wish and restore his nine cat lives. Along the way, he learns the value of courage, love, and friendship in this charming adventure set in the SCU (Shrek Cinematic Universe).
If we are to discuss the finest Dreamworks films, you can’t skip The Last Wish. This is a shockingly well-written exploration of mortality and found family, despite the fact it’s about a snarky orange fuzzball in questionable footwear. It’s an absolute treat in every facet of the storytelling. The plot has depth, the characters are messy and lovable, and it’s a visual feast.
Whilewe wait for Shrek 5 (yes, it’s real), check out ourPuss in Boots: The Last Wish review.
A group of failed heroes set out on a quest to retrieve a lost relic, facing dangerous monsters and competing interests. On the way, they have to find ways to make their differences work for them while chasing the goal of resurrection magic.
Despite not making a splash at the box office, Honor Among Thieves is a near-perfect DnD movie. It has plenty of nods to TTRPG fans, yet is entirely accessible to people who have no interest in actually playing the game. It doesn’t take itself seriously, but there’s clear care in the spells, casting, and structure, to make it DnD come to life. Michelle Rodriguez as a Barbarian might be the most inspired creative choice ever made.
Read ourDungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves reviewfor more reasons to watch.
A young boy struggling with his mother’s terminal illness finds solace in a giant, tree-like creature who helps him confront his fears. It’s a heartfelt and visually stunning story about grief and healing. May we interest you in a tearjerker?
A Monster Calls is a grounded drama movie, despite the giant talking Liam Neeson tree, that pulls on your heartstrings. The fantasy elements are wonderfully well-realized, but it’s the love between an ill mother and her scared son that will sear this into your memory. If you’re a sucker for brilliant acting and family dynamics, you’ll be blown away by this. Seriously, this is easily one of thebest fantasy movieson the platform right now, so don’t miss it!
Check out ourA Monster Calls reviewfor more information on this gem.
Dev Patel stars as Sir Gawain in this stunning, mystical reimagining of the Arthurian legend from director David Lowery. His long and arduous journey to confront the mysterious, gigantic, Green Knight is a tale of courage and recklessness that twists a well-known story.
Lowery is known for his elevated takes on fantastical concepts (Peter and Wendy, A Ghost Story), but The Green Knight is his most flat-out fantasy film, with tales as old as time modified to fit a grand vision. Talking points are the intricate costumes, abstract optics, and inventive bending of mythology.
A surreal musical where a stand-up comedian and an opera singer’s whirlwind romance leads to the birth of their extraordinary child, Annette. It’s an unusual, emotionally layered film with helpings of bold visuals and memorable performances.
Marion Cotillard and Adam Driver star in this genre-blending love affair, where a career spiral leads to a dark place. Themes of fame, talent, and tragedy are at the heart of Annette, and it has a few eerie turns that might catch you off guard. Carax’s typical wit finds a satisfying balance beside the movie’s sad undertones. Fans of the unconventional need look no further.
Year:1986Director:Jim HensonAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US
A teenage girl — played by a young Jennifer Connelly in her breakout role — must navigate a fantastical maze to rescue her baby brother Toby from the clutches of the Goblin King, brought to life by the iconic David Bowie. She has 13 hours to rescue him by solving a labyrinth.
This cult classic of magical adventure is a staple of many childhoods, and for good reason. Henson’s (who most people will know from his work on The Muppets) fingerprints are all over it, with spellbinding practical effects, creatures, and puppetry making a delightful but dangerous world. The nostalgic, other-worldly tone hits every time.
A depressed teen is tormented by visions of a creepy rabbit named Frank who warns him the world will end. Equipped only with foresight and half-baked time-travel theories, Donnie prepares for an unknown threat while navigating his disassociated existence.
Donnie Darko is one of the best movies of all time. It’s a special, haunting sci-fi film that enraptures you from start to end. Its whip-smart jaded cynicism, mind-bending concept, and eerie atmosphere are uncompromised, and the stirring answers to its questions are part of a bigger jigsaw puzzle never intended to be solved. Donnie Darko’s ambitious creativity and bold swings make it Kelly’s one and only masterpiece.
For more information on one of thebest sci-fi moviesever made, read our five-starDonnie Darko review.
Year:1982Director:John CarpenterAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US
A group of scientists living in a remote Antarctica research station come face to face with a shape-shifting, murderous alien that can perfectly mimic any living creature.
Carpenter’s The Thing is a masterclass in tension, paranoia, and wonderfully weird practical effects. Don’t bother with the remake, go straight to this classic. Carpenter is no stranger to making brilliant horror (he did popularize the slasher movie with Halloween, after all). Still, The Thing is much frostier than his other work, and we’re not just talking about the weather. There’s a cold and calculated quality to the alien that makes this film nail-biting.
After more streaming space picks? Check out our list of thebest sci-fi movies on Netflix.
Year:2006Director:James McTeigueAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US
In a dystopian future, a masked vigilante named V leads a rebellion against a totalitarian government, inspiring a hesitant young woman to join his cause. This politically charged adaptation is packed with action from Alan Moore’s graphic novel.
Directed by McTeigue and written by The Wachowski Sisters soon after they wrapped their Matrix trilogy, V for Vendetta is a pointed, bloody, rage against the machine. The slick kills, turbulent political atmosphere, and broody visuals make it sound like a unilaterally dark film. In actuality, V for Vendetta has hope and rebellion baked in.
For more on this dystopian, read ourV For Vendetta review.
Year:1978Director:Philip KaufmanAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US
San Fransico residents are taken over by aliens in this chilling remake of the 1956 sci-fi horror. A group of survivors must uncover the invasion before it’s too late in this paranoia-fueled thriller.
Though the original Invasion of the Body Snatchers is no slouch, the 1978 remake tends to be favored. With an eye-catching cast (Donald Sutherland, Leonard Nimoy, Jeff Goldblum) and more modern effects to play with, this remake takes the cake because of its atmosphere. It plays up the paranoia element of the story effectively, and while it does look its age in some respects, fans of practical effects will find lots to smile about.
Ready to meet some galactic friends? Check out our guide on thebest alien moviesof all time.
More than the bland military movie it appears to be on the surface, The Tomorrow War’s plot wrinkles separate it from the usual dystopian muck being spat out by streaming services. Watching the capable fighters from the future try to teach unprepared soldiers in the present time how to win combat encounters with a much stronger enemy is an interesting point. It’s also chilling to watch present-day humanity reckon with the idea they’re losing a global war that hasn’t even started for them yet.
For more details, head over to ourThe Tomorrow War review!
A teenager accidentally time-travels to the 1980s and teams up with her slightly bratty teenage mother to stop a serial killer on the loose. Equal parts slasher and time-travel comedy, Kiernan Shipka shines in this fun, bloody ride.
For streaming picks, head over to our list of thebest horror movies on Netflix.
A young aspiring model in L.A. is drawn into a dark world of beauty, obsession, and jealousy. With stunning visuals and an eerie atmosphere, Nicolas Winding Refn’s The Neon Demon is a hypnotic, unsettling probe into vanity at its most extreme.
This divisive, stomach-churning dive into beauty standards and what people may do to achieve them is gutsy — literally and figuratively. The cinematography is the standout, though. Weaving colors, inspired makeup and costume design, and heart-pounding music plunge you into a heightened and cutthroat modeling landscape. There’s much to be debated about the film’s male gaze and potential blindspots, making it all the meatier to be engrossed in.
Want to know more about this flick? Read ourThe Neon Demon review.
A young dancer joins a prestigious but mysterious academy in Berlin, only to uncover dark, supernatural secrets. Luca Guadagnino’s remake of the 1977 classic (aka one of thebest horror moviesever made) is striking and deeply unnerving.
The original Suspiria is a Giallo masterstroke that would be impossible to recreate, so Guadagnino didn’t try to. This is an earthier remix of the vague outline from the ’70s film. Fitted with body horror, cult-like relationships, and a hair-raising atmosphere you can’t pinpoint the source of. There are few frights here, so Suspiria is best suited for people who like a disturbing tone and a mystery to solve.
Year:1962Director:Herk HarveyAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
After surviving what should have been a fatal car accident, a woman becomes drawn to a mysterious abandoned carnival and sees visions.
With its bizarre ambiance and appropriately haunting imagery, this indie horror film is a cult favorite for good reason. The hypnotism of the strange and alluring deserted carnival on the outskirts of town is palpable, and protagonist Mary Henry is a blank slate without being bland. With secrets of her past to unlock and weird visions plaguing her, Carnival of Souls is a compelling and creepy mystery.
Year:1987Director:Clive BarkerAvailable on: Amazon Prime Video US
A puzzle box found by a hedonist unleashes a group of sadistic, otherworldly beings known as the Cenobites. It’s a nightmarish blend of horror, pain, and pleasure in Clive Barker’s original dark fantasy.
People in horror movies really need to unlearn the ‘finders, keepers’ philosophy. It never leads to anything good. Nor does it here, in this stomach-churning body horror flick with heaps of dark fantasy thrown in. Pinhead is one of the scariest big bads of all time, and it’s not even close. We’d take Michael Myers chasing us down a dark street over this dude any day. Warning though: Hellraiser is not for the faint of heart.
After more streaming titles? Head over to our guide on thebest shows on Netflix, and thebest movies on HBO Max.
Trudie is an entertainment journalist based in Scotland who specializes in covering movies, TV shows, and games. Her words can be found on Dexerto, The Digital Fix, Technopedia, and Collider.
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