In recent years, Netflix and Apple TV+ have been competing fiercely for the title of the most prestigious film offerings, yet some of the finest movies can be found on Amazon Prime Video. The streamer was among the pioneers in curating a collection of film festival gems and beloved favorites, all of which remain available in the library. If any of these treasures slipped past you initially, now is the ideal moment to dive in and discover them.
Discover our top 16 movie selections available on Amazon Prime, curated just for you. Every film featured in our guide is available with your Prime subscription—no rentals required. After you’ve enjoyed your binge, explore our curated lists for the top shows on Netflix and the finest movies on Disney+ if you’re seeking your next viewing adventure. If you’re in the mood for some great entertainment, check out our guide to the best shows on Amazon.
1. My Old Ass
Aubrey Plaza’s remarkable ascent shows no signs of slowing down in this clever, contemporary interpretation of the coming-of-age dramedy. Crafted by the talented Megan Park, known for The Fallout, My Old Ass tells the story of 18-year-old Elliott (Maisy Stella) as she navigates the transition to college and significant life changes. To mark her birthday, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery by taking mushrooms with her friends. During her journey, she encounters … Elliott, 39 years old (Plaza). Things take a truly surreal turn once she’s sobered up. Elliott begins to receive mysterious text messages from the future, cautioning her to steer clear of a boy named Chad. With a blend of hope and melancholy, this film showcases the remarkable performances of both actors portraying an Elliott. It artfully encapsulates the chaotic yet joyful essence of youth, alongside the lingering, reflective “what ifs.”that accompany the passage of time. A joy for every age.
2. No Time to Die
Daniel Craig’s last performance as James Bond delivers all the exhilarating action and international escapades that fans of the iconic spy series anticipate, while also presenting what could be 007’s most emotionally intense journey to date. No Time to Die opens with Bond enjoying a peaceful retirement, poised to move on from MI6. When his old ally Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright) reactivates him to track down the scientist responsible for a lethal new nanobot weapon, he discovers that the intelligence agency has already appointed an elite new 007 agent, Nomi (Lashana Lynch), in his place. That hurts. Weaving together elements from Craig’s first appearance in Casino Royale, the 25th installment of the franchise delivers a unique sense of resolution for the character, culminating in an ending that is sure to move even the toughest action enthusiasts to tears.
3. Killer Heat
Private investigator Nick Bali, portrayed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt in his prime detective form, is summoned to a picturesque Greek island by the affluent Penelope Vardakis, played by Shailene Woodley. She seeks his expertise to unravel the mystery surrounding the dubious death of her brother-in-law, Leo, portrayed by Richard Madden. The initial indication that something is off arises when it’s revealed that her husband, Elias, is Leo’s identical twin—also played by Madden—and his behavior regarding the “dead brother” situation raises more than a few eyebrows. Adapted from Jo Nesbø’s short story “The Jealousy Man,” Killer Heat delivers the classic elements of modern noir thrillers—Bali clashes with local police, uncovers secrets his client wishes to keep hidden, and finds himself entangled in the case. While this murder mystery may not break new ground, it offers an enjoyable, almost cozy experience for genre enthusiasts. With a delightful runtime of 90 minutes and stunning location photography, it’s the perfect way to bid farewell to summer.
4. Elvis
Experience the extraordinary journey of “The King” in this captivating biopic from director Baz Luhrmann (Moulin Rouge). Elvis chronicles Presley’s remarkable ascent from a challenging upbringing to achieving global superstardom as the foremost music artist of his time. Luhrmann masterfully brings to life every hip-shaking scandal and electrifying performance, yet the film’s core lies in the tumultuous relationship between Elvis and his infamous manager, Colonel Tom Parker. Austin Butler shines as Elvis, delivering outstanding performances that will leave you utterly captivated, while Tom Hanks presents a progressively sinister and desperate portrayal of Parker (just try to ignore the accent). This jukebox drama pays homage to Presley’s legacy while showcasing Luhrmann’s unique filmmaking prowess, striking a balance that avoids excessive adulation.
5. Brittany Runs a Marathon
After receiving a weight loss recommendation from her doctor, Brittany (Jillian Bell) seizes the opportunity to take charge of her life. She begins by lacing up her trainers and daring herself to run just one block, a decision that swiftly transforms into the bold ambition of tackling the New York City Marathon. Debut director Paul Downs Colaizzo draws inspiration from a friend’s journey, showcasing both the rewards of running and the challenges it brings. This film illustrates that regardless of how dire the circumstances may become, there’s always a way to rise again.
6. American Fiction
Thelonious “Monk” Ellison (Jeffrey Wright) is a distinguished literature professor grappling with the challenges of being an author, as his manuscripts face relentless rejection for lacking authenticity. Frustrated by the acclaim received by fellow writer Sintara Golden (Issa Rae) for her formulaic and stereotypical narratives, Monk decides to take matters into his own hands. He crafts a novel under a pseudonym, deliberately incorporating every tired trope and cliché to satirize the literary landscape. To his shock, the book skyrockets to popularity, leaving him both amused and dismayed by its unexpected success. As a monumental breakthrough transforms into a lucrative movie deal, Monk finds himself in turmoil as both the public and his own family appear to embrace the provocatively offensive creation. Inspired by Percival Everett’s novel Erasure, American Fiction emerges as a sharply satirical piece infused with a biting sense of humor—an uncommon contemporary comedy that delivers a powerful message, led by one of the standout performances of Wright’s career.
7. The Idea of You
The most successful romantic comedies thrive on their delightful absurdity—the unlikely encounters, the intense feelings, the grand displays of love, and the whirlwind experience of falling madly for someone. The Idea of You masterfully captures the dynamic between accomplished gallery owner Solène Marchand (Anne Hathaway) and international music sensation Hayes Campbell (Nicholas Galitzine), who is also 16 years her junior. What could have easily devolved into mere tabloid gossip instead unfolds into a captivating narrative. When the paparazzi catch wind of Hayes’ romance with the “older woman,” it initially seems like a sensational story. However, as the couple embarks on their globe-trotting adventure, the magnetic chemistry between the leads draws the audience into their enchanting whirlwind romance. It’s really more about “will they or won’t they?”“Should they? Shouldn’t they?” Thanks to a skillfully managed awareness of the age gap (which has already been narrowed from the original novel by Robinne Lee), this is sure to be a delight for fans of the genre.
8. Road House
Director Doug Liman’s update of the classic ’80s action flick has sparked considerable debate, with discussions ranging from its anticipated cinematic release to the incorporation of CGI in its intense fight sequences. Take a moment to detach from the everyday hustle, and you’ll find this is an enjoyable, mindless escape perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Florida Keys instead of Missouri, and featuring Jake Gyllenhaal as the intense Elwood Dalton—now with a complex history as a UFC fighter—this narrative remains compelling. It tells the story of a man taking on local crime lords, delivering a gripping experience through each fierce fistfight. While it may not be considered high art, there are moments when that’s precisely what you’re looking for. If you’re still on the fence, it’s important to highlight that the original from 1989 is also available on Prime, allowing you to compare and contrast.
9. Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
This vibrant musical, inspired by a true story and adapted from the stage play of the same name, follows the uplifting journey of Jamie New (Max Harwood). Facing bullying at school for his sexuality and dealing with a distant, homophobic father, Jamie yearns for a way out through the vibrant world of drag. When he encounters retired drag performer Hugo Battersby, portrayed brilliantly by Richard E. Grant, Jamie embarks on a transformative journey to unleash his inner queen, “Mimi Me.” Originating from Sheffield, England, this narrative weaves together themes of class and culture, all while honoring the significance of self-expression and the empowering essence of drag.
10. Bottoms
In every high school, a social hierarchy exists, and at the very bottom of this pecking order are PJ (Rachel Sennott) and Josie (Ayo Edebiri). Often labeled as the “ugly, untalented gays” by faculty, their sole chance to connect with the school’s most sought-after cheerleaders, Isabel (Havana Rose Liu) and Brittany (Kaia Gerber), lies in establishing an all-girl fight club aimed at empowering them to confront their unfaithful, disrespectful jock boyfriends. At first glance, it may seem like the premise belongs to a questionable ’70s exploitation film. With a take on violence that dances between outrageous and absurd, it certainly flirts with that vibe. However, Bottoms proves to be far more intelligent and subversive than its initial concept implies. Breaking boundaries at every corner, this is the vibrant, passionate, and uproarious take on the high school comedy you never realized you were missing.
11. Saltburn
At the esteemed halls of Oxford, Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan) struggles to find his place—until a chance encounter with the charismatic Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi) changes everything. Felix, the epitome of charm and wealth, hailing from a prestigious lineage, extends a hand to the socially awkward and overlooked Oliver. He invites him into his exclusive world, culminating in a summer spent at the opulent family estate, Saltburn. As Oliver ingratiates himself with the family, his fixation on Felix spirals into a realm of darkness and madness. Straddling the line between black comedy and psychological thriller, writer and director Emerald Fennel (Promising Young Woman) utilizes a 4:3 aspect ratio to create a tighter, almost voyeuristic viewing experience, amplifying the discomfort of its often unsettling moments. Since its release in 2023, Saltburn has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding its approach to themes of class and social inclusion. This film stands out as one of the year’s most polarizing offerings, yet it undeniably warrants your attention.
12. The Burial
Courtroom dramas typically don’t serve up laughs, but this story featuring funeral home director Jeremiah O’Keefe (Tommy Lee Jones) and his flamboyant lawyer Willie Gary (Jamie Foxx) as they challenge a significant force in America’s “death care” industry injects a darkly comedic twist into the otherwise somber events. This is far from a comedy. Inspired by true events, director Maggie Betts’ latest drama unveils a real-life legal case that highlights the stark inequalities in funeral care and the frequent overcharging faced by Black communities. Foxx and Jones shine brilliantly in their roles, yet it’s Jurnee Smollett as Mame Downes, Gary’s formidable rival attorney, who consistently challenges him and delivers a performance that could easily eclipse the entire film. Despite its focus on death, The Burial emerges as a celebration of life.
13. A Million Miles Away
This biopic chronicles the remarkable journey of José Hernández, drawing from his own book. It beautifully intertwines aspiration and inspiration, showcasing his transformation from a migrant farm worker to becoming the first Mexican-American astronaut. Michael Peña delivers a standout performance as Hernández, vividly portraying a man singularly focused on reaching space at any cost. Meanwhile, Rosa Salazar shines as his wife Adela, steadfastly refusing to be sidelined, even as she temporarily sets aside her own aspirations for José’s pursuit of the stars. In less skilled hands, this narrative might come off as overly sentimental—a quaint story of perseverance and the pursuit of the American Dream, sprinkled with some NASA promotional content. However, director Alejandra Márquez Abella expertly captures the subtle beauties of life on Earth alongside the grandeur and limitless possibilities of space. An extraordinary pleasure.
14. Red, White, and Royal Blue
This film undoubtedly stands out as a “best film” by a very particular standard—and that standard is “delightfully cheesy entertainment.” Based on Casey McQuinston’s best-selling novel, this intercontinental rom-com explores the evolving relationship between First Son Alex Claremont-Diaz (Taylor Zakhar Perez) and Prince Henry (Nicholas Galitzine), the “spare” to the British throne, as they transition from rivals to begrudging respect, culminating in a groundbreaking romance. It’s undeniably outrageous, featuring a memorable moment where the duo tumbles into a wedding cake, a scandalous rendezvous in a hotel room, and a web of political drama involving Alex’s mother, President Ellen Claremont (Uma Thurman, delivering lines with a quirky “Texan” accent). Yet, despite the chaos, it remains utterly charming and uplifting. Red, White, and Royal Blue is like indulging in a slice of pizza—it’s not the healthiest choice, but oh, is it satisfying!
15. Shin Masked Rider
If you’re tired of the same old Hollywood superhero films, this fresh reboot of one of Japan’s cherished heroes is definitely worth your attention. Directed by Hideaki Anno, known for his work on Evangelion, Shin Godzilla, and Shin Ultraman—where “shin” translates to “new” or “true” in Japanese—this project reimagines the classic 1971 TV series Kamen Rider. The story revolves around motorcyclist Takeshi Hongo, portrayed by Sosuke Ikematsu. Abducted by the notorious terrorist organization S.H.O.C.K.E.R. and transformed into a formidable cyborg, Hongo manages to break free before he can be reprogrammed as one of their agents. Instead, he harnesses his extraordinary abilities to dismantle the very forces that sought to control him. In contrast to the original, Anno’s interpretation delves into the unsettling aspects of body horror inherent in the concept, while simultaneously urging both his characters and the audience to cling to their fundamental humanity amidst a world that seeks to strip it away. It’s more intense than you might anticipate, frequently depicting the brutal consequences of ordinary individuals being struck by supercharged cyborgs and creatures, yet always maintaining a sense of restraint. For those familiar with the source material, Shin Masked Rider offers a deeper experience, but it remains an exhilarating choice for anyone seeking a refreshing twist in the superhero genre.
16. Air
Absolutely, today Michael Jordan stands as a legendary figure in sports, and Nike’s Air Jordan sneakers reign supreme on the court—but that wasn’t the reality in 1984. Jordan, a fresh talent in the league, found himself at a pivotal moment as Nike teetered on the brink of shutting down its basketball shoe division. Meet Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), a savvy talent scout for the footwear giant, who has uncovered a dazzling prospect in North Carolina. This rising star has the potential to revolutionize the game—now, he just needs to persuade everyone that investing in Jordan is the key to the company’s future. We all remember how that unfolded, so fortunately, Air offers much more than just a two-hour commercial for footwear. Damon, Jason Bateman, Chris Tucker, and director Ben Affleck all shine with impressive performances, yet they are overshadowed by Viola Davis, who delivers a magnetic and powerful, albeit somewhat underutilized, portrayal of matriarch Deloris Jordan. Meanwhile, Alex Convery’s script skillfully focuses on the drama surrounding the individuals and their personalities, steering clear of the boardroom dynamics. In a world dominated by franchises and non-stop blockbusters, Air stands out as a refreshing character-driven film that is increasingly rare, making it all the more delightful to experience.
17. Borat Subsequent Moviefilm
Sacha Baron Cohen’s “Kazakh” TV reporter, despite speaking Hebrew, makes his return to the US, 14 years after his last feature-length adventure. In this latest venture, Baron Cohen has enlisted the help of his teenage daughter, who speaks Bulgarian, with the audacious aim of presenting her as a “gift” to influential American politicians—starting with Mike Pence and later, Rudy Giuliani. In true Boratic style, this mockumentary captures the hilarious escapades of a quirky duo as they journey through Trump’s America, documenting spontaneous performances from a diverse cast of characters, including QAnon enthusiasts, Republican activists, prim debutantes, and even Giuliani himself. The coronavirus pandemic, which hit America during the filming, is cleverly turned into a comedic plot twist. Baron Cohen impresses with his signature blend of outrageous humor and sharp-witted commentary, successfully taking jabs at bigots along the way. Unlike its 2006 predecessor, this installment leans more towards provoking nervous laughter rather than delving into America’s darker truths. Nonetheless, it stands out as a worthwhile—and entertaining—experience.
18. Shotgun Wedding
Shotgun Wedding offers a lively twist on the classic romantic comedy formula, drawing in audiences with its familiar premise of a wedding on a sun-soaked island, complete with the comedic chaos of feuding relatives. However, it quickly escalates into a thrilling adventure as the wedding guests find themselves at the mercy of ruthless pirates. To be frank, there are moments that feel a bit over-the-top and self-referential, yet the chemistry between Jennifer Lopez and Josh Duhamel as bride and groom Darcy and Tom is undeniable. Their enjoyment shines through as their wedding day spirals into a wildly entertaining and often comically gruesome fight for survival, making it hard not to get caught up in the adventure. Featuring a stellar supporting cast, including the delightfully entertaining Jennifer Coolidge as the groom’s mother, who steals every scene with her wonderfully chaotic charm, this wedding is one you won’t want to miss.
19. Nanny
Aisha (Anna Diop), a determined Senegalese woman, serves as a nanny for an affluent couple in the bustling heart of New York City, all while striving to save enough to reunite with her son and cousin in America. Yet, her future hangs in the balance, dictated by her employers, who appear satisfied to let Aisha care for their daughter, Rose, all the while frequently delaying her wages. As the burden of the power imbalance presses down on her, Aisha finds herself plagued by unsettling dreams of drowning, intensified by her deep-seated fears of leaving her own child behind. In her feature debut, director Nikyatu Jusu presents Nanny, a film that juxtaposes the chilling realities of the immigrant experience in contemporary America with a deeper, more sinister undercurrent. It deftly replaces the usual themes of hope and opportunity with a haunting sense of loss for the culture and community that have been abandoned. Nanny unfolds with a gradual, psychological intensity that heightens its scares, showcasing Diop’s exceptional performance. The careful pacing and stunning cinematography ensure that each frame resonates deeply.
20. Coming 2 America
Leveraging nostalgia to revive long-dormant series can be a precarious endeavor, yet Eddie Murphy’s comeback as Prince—now King—Akeem of Zamunda, over thirty years after the original 1988 film Coming to America, exemplifies a successful approach. Akeem returns to the US, driven by the quest to find a son he never knew existed. In this journey, he—and the audience—reconnects with beloved characters from the original film. Director Craig Brewer (Hustle and Flow) cleverly flips the script, sending the American characters on an adventure to Zamunda. Coming 2 America delivers a sharper, smarter, and more globally aware script than its predecessor, defying the odds to emerge as a comedy sequel that truly upholds its legacy.
21. Thirteen Lives
Director Ron Howard’s latest film features an exceptional cast, including Viggo Mortensen, Colin Farrell, and Joel Edgerton, as it dramatizes the gripping events of the 2018 Tham Luang cave rescue, where a Thai junior soccer team and their assistant coach found themselves trapped in a flooded cave system. As a global initiative intensifies to rescue the children, the daunting task of traversing extensive underwater caves grows increasingly treacherous, and Howard skillfully encapsulates each harrowingly confined moment of the journey. Experience the heart-pounding intensity of Thirteen Lives, a film that masterfully captures one of the most challenging rescues in history, featuring brilliantly crafted aquatic sequences that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
22. One Night in Miami …
Inspired by the acclaimed play, One Night in Miami brings together four legendary figures—Malcolm X, Jim Brown, Sam Cooke, and Muhammad Ali—during a crucial moment in the Civil Rights Movement, marking a significant intersection in their lives and careers. In a motel room following Ali’s heavyweight triumph over Sonny Liston in 1964, four men engage in a profound discussion about their roles within the movement and society at large, all while the audience feels the immense pressure of history looming over them. The intimate settings of the film echo its theatrical origins, yet Regina King’s feature directorial debut brilliantly captures the vibrant, larger-than-life characters of its ensemble cast. Kingsley Ben-Adir delivers a powerhouse performance as Malcolm X, while Aldis Hodge, Leslie Odom Jr., and Eli Goree shine brilliantly as Brown, Cooke, and Ali, captivating the audience with their magnetic presence.
23. The Report
Produced by Amazon, The Report offers a captivating exploration of the US Senate’s inquiry into the CIA’s “enhanced interrogation” program—delving into its origins, the key players involved, and the ways in which the CIA shaped the narrative to validate its effectiveness. In a gripping performance, Adam Driver takes on the role of Daniel Jones, the determined lead investigator who navigates a solitary journey toward uncovering the truth, facing relentless political opposition and CIA obstacles at every turn. The driver delivers yet again, showcasing his exceptional talent, and the film’s impressive 82 percent “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes is truly deserved.
24. Sound of Metal
Ruben, a punk-rock drummer and recovering addict, faces a life-altering challenge as he begins to lose his hearing, putting everything he knows at risk. Confronted with a heart-wrenching decision between sacrificing his hearing or his career, Ruben finds himself in a downward spiral. It isn’t until his girlfriend Lou intervenes and checks him into a rehab center for the deaf that he is compelled to face not only his actions but also the uncertain future that lies ahead. Riz Ahmed delivers a stunning performance as the troubled Ruben, while Olivia Cooke captivates as Lou, who grapples with her own struggles, including self-harm. Sound of Metal masterfully employs sound—and its silence—as director Darius Marder delivers one of the most compelling dramas of recent times.
