Amazon Prime Video has become a go-to destination for movie enthusiasts, offering a vast collection of films across various genres. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what to watch. To help you navigate this sea of cinematic treasures, we‘ve curated a list of the 10 best movies currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. From thought-provoking dramas to heart-pumping action flicks, these films are sure to captivate and entertain you.
1. "Parasite" (2019)
Directed by Bong Joon-ho, "Parasite" made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. This gripping South Korean thriller follows the lives of two families from different socioeconomic backgrounds, exploring themes of class inequality and the lengths people will go to survive. With its impeccable storytelling, stellar performances, and unexpected twists, "Parasite" is a must-watch for any film buff.
2. "The Departed" (2006)
Martin Scorsese‘s crime drama "The Departed" features an all-star cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Jack Nicholson. Set in Boston, the film revolves around an undercover cop and a mole in the police department, both attempting to identify each other while infiltrating an Irish gang. With its intricate plot, intense performances, and Scorsese‘s masterful direction, "The Departed" is a thrilling ride from start to finish.
3. "Moonlight" (2016)
Barry Jenkins‘ "Moonlight" is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story that follows the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. Told in three chapters, the film explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the struggle to find one‘s place in the world. With its stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and emotionally resonant storytelling, "Moonlight" is a cinematic masterpiece that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
4. "The Big Sick" (2017)
Based on the real-life romance of Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, "The Big Sick" is a heartwarming and hilarious romantic comedy that tackles serious themes with grace and authenticity. Nanjiani stars as a version of himself, navigating cultural differences and family expectations while falling in love with Emily (played by Zoe Kazan). When Emily falls ill and is placed in a medically-induced coma, Kumail must confront his feelings and build a relationship with her parents. With its witty screenplay and charming performances, "The Big Sick" is a refreshing take on the rom-com genre.
5. "Manchester by the Sea" (2016)
Kenneth Lonergan‘s "Manchester by the Sea" is a deeply moving drama that explores the complexities of grief, family, and forgiveness. Casey Affleck delivers a career-defining performance as Lee Chandler, a man who returns to his hometown to care for his teenage nephew after the death of his brother. As Lee confronts his past and the tragedy that haunts him, the film delves into the raw emotions and challenges of moving forward in the face of immense loss. With its authentic performances and poignant storytelling, "Manchester by the Sea" is a testament to the power of human resilience.
6. "The Handmaiden" (2016)
Directed by Park Chan-wook, "The Handmaiden" is a visually stunning and psychologically gripping thriller set in 1930s colonial Korea. Inspired by Sarah Waters‘ novel "Fingersmith," the film follows a young woman who is hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy Japanese heiress, but is secretly involved in a plot to defraud her. As the story unfolds, the lines between deception and desire become increasingly blurred, leading to a series of shocking revelations. With its lush cinematography, intricate plotting, and bold exploration of female sexuality, "The Handmaiden" is a cinematic tour de force.
7. "Sound of Metal" (2019)
Darius Marder‘s "Sound of Metal" tells the story of Ruben (Riz Ahmed), a heavy metal drummer whose life is thrown into turmoil when he begins to lose his hearing. As Ruben struggles to come to terms with his new reality, he finds solace in a community of deaf individuals and begins to reevaluate his priorities. Ahmed delivers a powerhouse performance, capturing the raw emotions and frustrations of a man grappling with a life-altering change. With its innovative sound design and poignant exploration of identity and community, "Sound of Metal" is a groundbreaking film that challenges perceptions of disability and adaptation.
8. "One Night in Miami" (2020)
Based on the stage play by Kemp Powers, "One Night in Miami" imagines a fictionalized meeting between four iconic figures: Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke. Set on the night of February 25, 1964, after Ali‘s stunning victory over Sonny Liston, the film explores the challenges and aspirations of these influential Black men at a pivotal moment in history. With its powerful performances and thought-provoking dialogue, "One Night in Miami" offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of these legendary figures and the social and political climate of the 1960s.
9. "The Farewell" (2019)
Lulu Wang‘s semi-autobiographical film "The Farewell" tells the story of Billi (Awkwafina), a young Chinese-American woman who returns to China to visit her dying grandmother. However, her family has decided to keep the grandmother‘s terminal diagnosis a secret, instead planning a wedding as an excuse to gather and say goodbye. As Billi navigates the cultural differences and emotional complexities of the situation, the film explores themes of family, identity, and the power of love. With its heartfelt performances and poignant observations on the immigrant experience, "The Farewell" is a deeply moving and relatable story that transcends cultural boundaries.
10. "The Vast of Night" (2019)
Set in the 1950s, Andrew Patterson‘s "The Vast of Night" is a low-budget sci-fi mystery that punches well above its weight. The film follows two young radio enthusiasts, Everett and Fay, as they investigate a strange audio frequency that may be connected to extraterrestrial activity. With its long, unbroken takes, stylized dialogue, and eerie atmosphere, "The Vast of Night" pays homage to classic science fiction while carving out its own unique identity. The film‘s inventive storytelling and impressive technical achievements make it a standout in the genre and a testament to the power of innovative, low-budget filmmaking.
Conclusion
These 10 films represent the best of what Amazon Prime Video has to offer, showcasing a diverse range of genres, styles, and storytelling techniques. From the socially conscious thrills of "Parasite" to the emotionally resonant drama of "Manchester by the Sea," these movies demonstrate the power of cinema to entertain, enlighten, and inspire. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and embark on a cinematic journey with these must-watch films on Amazon Prime Video. You won‘t be disappointed.
