The problem with narrowing down the best Amazon Prime movies is one of volume. Simply, there's so much to choose from on the platform, with new arrivals coming and older releases leaving on a monthly rotation. It's an ever-evolving selection of classics and modern hits that you could spend hours scrolling through.
To save you from choice paralysis, we've gathered the 25 best movies to watch right now. There are beloved horror classics here, blockbusters, and a Prime exclusive or two, to cover all the bases for what you might be after. To make things even easier, we've broken our list up into key categories: horror, action, sci-fi, fantasy, and animated films to help you find the streaming choice you need.
On top of all those, we have a special entry we keep updated each month with a particular highlight we believe everyone should be aware of. So, here are the best Amazon Prime movies to stream right now.
You should also check out best shows on Amazon Prime and the best movies on Netflix for more recommendations, but for now, let's get into all the finest films from Prime this month!
Pick of the month
Blue Velvet
Year: 1986
Director: David Lynch
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
If you're still reeling from Lynch's passing this past January like we are, Blue Velvet is a perfect way to celebrate his legacy. So many of his hallmarks are solidified in the psychological mystery, from his surrealist style to a focus on the ugliness hidden away in suburban communities.
Kyle MacLachlan serves as the lead, portraying Jeffrey, a college kid who comes home following some health issues from his father. His stay takes an unexpected turn when he becomes embroiled in the dire situation of Dorothy, a lounge singer played by Isabella Rossellini who's being exploited by local criminals. Together with Sandy (Laura Dern), they sink deeper into a seedy world of sex and violence in order to help Dorothy escape. It's unsettling, erotic, and like everything else from Lynch, completely beguiling and utterly unforgettable.
Action movies on Amazon Prime
You Were Never Really Here
Year: 2017
Director: Lynne Ramsay
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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.
Ramsay's storytelling ingenuity is evident here, using a dramatic edit as the film's primary visual language — much like in the 2011 film, We Need to Talk About Kevin. She has a signature style, and in it, there's a fine balance between brutality and gentleness. The movie perceives cruelty but bristles when enacting it. This takes the cake if you’re looking for a smart action thriller.
Check out our You Were Never Really Here review for more details!
Challengers
Year: 2024
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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.
For more information, read our Challengers review and our piece on why Challengers doesn't need sex scenes to make it the sexier movie of 2024.
Monkey Man
Year: 2024
Director: Dev Patel
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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-depth Monkey Man review.
Role Play
Year: 2024
Director: Thomas Vincent
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
One of the newer Amazon Original movies to land on the platform is action comedy Role Play. It stars Kaley Cuoco and David Oyelowo as a couple hiding secrets. Emma (Cuoco) is actually living a double life – as well as her loving marriage to her husband Dave (Oyelowo), she's also secretly an assassin. After Emma goes missing, Dave finds out about her true identity and takes it upon himself to try and bring her home. It's got a great supporting cast too, including Rudi Dharmalingam, Connie Nielsen, and Bill Nighy. A light touch, plenty of levity, and great performances should be enough to get you hooked.
Road House
Year: 2024
Director: Doug Liman
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Road House, directed by Doug Liman, is a reimagining of the 1989 movie of the same name starring Patrick Swayze. This time, Jake Gyllenhaal steps into the main role of an ex-professional fighter who takes on the job of protecting a local bar as a bouncer. That puts him in the crosshairs of Billy Magnussen's Ben Brandt, who has his own plans. With fun action, a breezy beachside setting, and genuine laughs, you can't go wrong with this actioner.
Animation movies on Amazon Prime
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Year: 2023
Director: Jeff Rowe
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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 the best family movies on 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 our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem review for more details!
Hotel Transylvania: Transformania
Year: 2022
Director(s): Jennifer Kluska, Derek Drymon
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Hotel Transylvania: Transformania is one of Amazon's exclusive animated movies, so we had to give it a shout-out here – especially since the streamer has a habit of replacing its library frequently. It isn't the best Hotel Transylvania by any means; however, let's be honest, this series is still, for the most part, delightful, full of slapstick comedy and lively animation.
In Hotel Transylvania: Transformania, we are taken back to the first film's premise, where Johnny ends up turning into a monster. However, this time around it's the monsters who are turned human. The story of Transformania is a bit dry, and the pacing could be better. However, the animation is still dramatic and colorful, and, all in all, the film is a great streaming choice for families, especially for those with younger kids.
Minions: The Rise of Gru
Year: 2022
Director: Kyle Balda
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
Following on from 2015's Minions, the Despicable Me spin-off The Rise of Gru charts the nefarious ascent of supervillain Gru (Steve Carrell) as he does battle with the Nefarious 6. Haplessly aided by the nonsense-spewing Minions, the animated affair finds humor and humanity alike in Gru's mishaps and misdemeanors. As to be expected, there's a heavy helping of the usual slapstick and anarchic mayhem that we have come to expect from the most famous yellow family this side of The Simpsons.
A mention, too, for Bob – the pint-sized Minion who takes centre stage here and proves there's still plenty of juice left to squeeze out of the billion-dollar Despicable Me franchise. If you want family fun, plenty of laughs, and a selection of side-splitting physical gags, then The Rise of Gru is here to save the day.
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
Year: 2022
Director: Joel Crawford
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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.
While we wait for Shrek 5 (yes, it's real), check out our Puss in Boots: The Last Wish review.
Fantasy movies on Amazon Prime
The Dark Crystal
Year: 1982
Director(s): Jim Henson, Frank Oz
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
Audiences didn't know what they were in for seeing The Dark Crystal on first release. On the back of the first two feature-length Muppets movies, they probably expected another cheery romp from Jim Henson, the Walt Disney of puppeteering. What they got is a downbeat, slightly grim fable about the mythical Gelflings trying to save their kingdom from the terrifying Skeksis.
Even now, it's somewhat unnerving. The puppetry and animatronics give an ethereal, magical charm to every nook and cranny of the world of Thra, helped along by captivating protagonists and terrifying villains. It might be a family film, but don't be surprised if you find the Skeksis skulking around in your nightmares after.
Annette
Year: 2021
Director: Leos Carax
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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.
Labyrinth
Year: 1986
Director: Jim Henson
Available 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.
Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror
Year: 1922
Director: F. W. Murnau
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Way before Robert Eggers' version – and the 1979 take from Werner Herzog – came the original Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror. Released in 1922, this silent film is a horror and fantasy classic. A German expressionist thinly-veiled reimagining of Dracula, it tells the terrifying tale of Count Orlok, a vampire who becomes obsessed with the wife of his estate agent. His pursuit of her leads him to their small town, which he haunts with his malevolent presence, bringing a plague to their streets.
Several moments in the horror classic have made their way into film history, and most of them involve Max Schreck's incredible performance as Count Orlok. He haunts the shadows of the movie with his long fingernails, pointy ears and distinctive bald head. If you want to brush up before watching the recent version or simply want an education in film history, add this one to your list.
Hellraiser
Year: 1987
Director: Clive Barker
Available 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.
Sci-fi movies on Amazon Prime
Donnie Darko
Year: 2001
Director: Richard Kelly
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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 the best sci-fi movies ever made, read our five-star Donnie Darko review.
The Vast of Night
Year: 2019
Director: Andrew Patterson
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Andrew Patterson's first film, The Vast of Night, is about a radio DJ and a switchboard operator in '50s New Mexico. If you couldn't tell by the setting already, the movie is centered around some strange alien occurrences and is, in fact, loosely based on the Kecksburg UFO incident and Foss Lake disappearances.
The story follows the two characters noticing that something may be hovering over their town after picking up a mysterious audio frequency. They decide to record people's stories, trying to put together a mystery with an outer world twist. Each story recorded is pretty scary, and has plenty of fun and attentive camera work to it. The Vast Night really captures the feeling of disruption and anxiety when a close community is faced with the unknown. If you love the X-Files or The Twilight Zone, this Amazon Prime movie will be right up your street.
Foe
Year: 2023
Director: Garth Davis
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Based on a novel of the same name from Iain Reid, Foe is a science fiction psychological thriller. Helmed by Australian director Garth Davis is stars Paul Mescal as Junior and Saoirse Ronan as Hen, a couple navigating marital issues whose worlds get flipped upside down when a mysterious stranger named Terrance (played by Aaron Pierre) turns up at the door. He reveals that Junior has been called to serve on the space station, which will take him away from home life for two years.
However, not all is as it seems in this beguiling and mysterious film. Not everyone will be convinced by the narrative structure of Foe, which had mixed reviews when it debuted. This being said, Mescal and Ronan's captivating performances are enough to make this one worthy of a watch.
The Tomorrow War
Year: 2021
Director: Chris McKay
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Time travelers from 2051 arrive to recruit present-day soldiers to fight in a war against an alien species threatening to wipe out humanity. This Chris Pratt vehicle is action-packed and has plenty of futuristic twists.
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 our The Tomorrow War review!
Totally Killer
Year: 2023
Director: Nahnatchka Khan
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Straddling the line of sci-fi and horror, Totally Killer follows a teenager accidentally who time-travels to the '80s 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.
This slasher quietly released in 2023 has no right to be as hearty and funny as it is. Shipka has no trouble carrying the film on her shoulders, and watching her Gen Z character wrestle with both a serial killer and outdated Gen X humor in the '80s is really entertaining. It doesn't reinvent the time travel wheel, but it doesn't have to.
For streaming picks, head over to our list of the best horror movies on Netflix.
Horror movies on Amazon Prime
The Neon Demon
Year: 2016
Director: Nicolas Winding Refn
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
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 our The Neon Demon review.
Suspiria
Year: 2018
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
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 the best horror movies ever 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.
The Handmaiden
Year: 2016
Director: Park Chan-wook
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US
Okay, maybe this is more thriller than horror but The Handmaiden is so good, we had to slot it in. A con artist and a pickpocket pose as a count and a handmaiden to swindle a rich heiress in 1930s Korea. But as they spin their web, erotic and thrilling twists upend their game plan in this lush, psychological thriller from top-tier director Park Chan-wook.
The Handmaiden is nothing short of exquisite. Chan-wook's sensual, perverse, and absurd tale of romance and deceit is beautifully layered. His camera moves around like a spirit, haunting characters with a smooth levitation as they scheme and desire. It’s one of the best films of 2016, intricately woven and gasp-worthy. Trust us, you don't want to miss this one.
Carnival of Souls
Year: 1962
Director: Herk Harvey
Available 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.
Nanny
Year: 2022
Director: Nikyatu Jusu
Available on: Amazon Prime Video US/UK
Nanny is easily one of the best horror movies on Amazon Prime right now. Releasing on the platform in 2022, it's a psychological outing that unpacks the trauma of separation and the dark side of chasing the "American Dream." Aisha (a Senegalese immigrant living in New York City) takes a job as a nanny as she tries to bring her six-year-old son to the States.
However, she is haunted by a dark and evil presence that invades both her dreams and reality – threatening everything that she's worked so hard to achieve. This may be a horror movie, but it's also a film about motherhood that explores fears of failing and personal sacrifice. The feeling of unsettlement and dread is what drives the scares here, and its easy to get swept up by Aisha's story of personal struggle.
After more streaming titles? Head over to our guide on the best shows on Netflix, and the best movies on HBO Max.
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