You won’t believe this, but as of 2023, Amazon Prime Video has surpassed 200 million subscribers worldwide. I was skeptical at first, thinking it couldn’t compete with the likes of Netflix or Hulu. But after diving in, I’ve found some hidden gems that make Prime Video a must-have. Let’s explore the top Amazon Prime movies you should watch, and why you shouldn’t overlook this streaming giant.
Why Amazon Prime Movies Are Worth Your Time
I used to think that Amazon Prime was just for shopping and fast shipping. Then I discovered that it comes with a treasure trove of movies and TV shows. The best part? Many of these are included with your Prime membership, no extra cost.
But here’s the thing: not all Prime movies are created equal. There are two main approaches to finding great movies on Prime:
- Browsing by category: This works best when you’ve a specific genre in mind. You can easily find action, comedy, drama, and more.
- Using the ‘Top Rated’ or ‘Critically Acclaimed’ filters: This is great when you’re in the mood for something excellent but don’t have a specific genre in mind. These filters help you find highly-rated movies that have stood out to both audiences and critics.
I find that browsing by category works best when I’m in the mood for something specific, like a good laugh or an intense thriller. But when I’m feeling indecisive, the ‘Top Rated’ filter is my go-to. It’s helped me discover some amazing movies I might have otherwise missed.
Top Amazon Prime Movies You Can’t Miss
The Big Sick (2017)
If you’re a fan of romantic comedies with a twist, you’ll love ‘The Big Sick.’ Based on a true story, this film is both heartwarming and hilarious. It’s about a comedian who falls in love with a grad student, but their relationship takes a unexpected turn when she falls ill.
What makes this movie stand out is its ability to blend humor and drama beautifully. It’s not just a typical rom-com; it’s a story about love, family, and cultural differences. I found myself laughing one moment and reaching for tissues the next.
Manchester by the Sea (2016)
For those who enjoy dramatic films with powerful performances, ‘Manchester by the Sea’ is a must-watch. This movie stars Casey Affleck as a man dealing with immense grief and guilt after a personal tragedy. When his brother passes away, he returns to his hometown and must confront his past.
This film is raw and emotional, with Affleck delivering an Oscar-winning performance. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s incredibly moving and well-crafted. If you’re in the mood for a serious drama that stays with you long after the credits roll, this is the one.
The Tomorrow War (2021)
Action and sci-fi fans, rejoice! ‘The Tomorrow War’ is an adrenaline-pumping adventure starring Chris Pratt. The story follows a group of soldiers who are sent 30 years into the future to fight an alien invasion. It’s packed with intense action sequences, futuristic tech, and a gripping storyline.
What I love about this movie is its blend of action and family drama. It’s not just about fighting aliens; it’s also about the sacrifices soldiers make and the bonds they share. If you’re a fan of films like ‘Edge of Tomorrow’ or ‘Avatar,’ you’ll enjoy this one.
The Boys in the Boat (2023)
Based on the bestselling book, ‘The Boys in the Boat’ is an inspiring true story about the University of Washington’s rowing team and their journey to the 1936 Berlin Olympics. This film is a testament to the power of determination, teamwork, and the human spirit.
What makes this movie special is its ability to capture the beauty and brutality of rowing. The cinematography is stunning, and the performances are heartfelt. It’s a film that’ll leave you cheering and maybe even shedding a tear or two. If you love sports dramas like ‘Remember the Titans’ or ‘Miracle,’ you’ll love this.
Making the Most of Amazon Prime Movies
Now that you know some of the top Amazon Prime movies to watch, let’s talk about how to make the most of your viewing experience. Here are some tips to enhance your time with Prime Video:
- Create a watchlist: This is perfect for keeping track of movies you want to watch later. It’s like having your own personal catalog of must-see films.
- Use the ‘X-Ray’ feature: Ever wondered who that actor is or wanted to know more about a movie’s trivia? The X-Ray feature provides behind-the-scenes info, actor bios, and more, right as you’re watching.
- Download movies for offline viewing: If you’re planning a trip or just want to watch something without using data, you can download movies to your device. It’s a handy feature for those times when you won’t have internet access.
- Check out the ‘Freevee’ section: Freevee is Amazon’s ad-supported streaming service, and it’s included with your Prime membership. You’ll find a mix of movies and TV shows here, some of which you won’t find elsewhere on Prime.
I’ve found that using these features has greatly enhanced my Prime Video experience. The watchlist keeps me organized, X-Ray satisfies my curiosity, downloading lets me watch on the go, and Freevee has introduced me to some great content I might have missed otherwise.
So, there you’ve it – a look at some of the top Amazon Prime movies you should watch, and how to make the most of your Prime Video membership. I went from being a skeptic to a true believer, and I think you’ll too. Happy watching!
