The 35 Best Movies on Amazon Prime Video Right Now (July 2024)

How many hours have we all lost to the endless streaming scroll? Aiming for a little kickback, you end up perusing all the good movies on Prime Video, intent on finding just the right one, ultimately unsure what to choose in the face of overwhelming options. Fret not: The Collider staff did all that scrolling for you, scanning through the catalog in search of the best picks for an entertaining night in. We've put together a wide-ranging list of the best movies on Prime Video right now.

What's more, we'll be updating the list regularly with additional picks, so you won't run out of viewing material any time soon. The list spans genres, decades, and ratings, so there should be a little something for everyone, but if you can't find what you're looking for below (and you're a multi-platform streamer), be sure to check out our picks for the best TV shows and best movies on Netflix.

Disclaimer: These titles are available on US Prime Video.

Editor's note: This article was updated July 2024 to include Space Cadet.

'Space Cadet' (2024)

Space Cadet (2024)

Written and directed by Liz W. Garcia, Space Cadet follows Emma Roberts’ Rex Simpson, the unlikely hope for the future of the NASA space program. Despite being underqualified and having accidentally landed in space training, Rex’s unique, often reckless determination and her penchant for having a good time are exactly the breath of fresh air NASA needs. As fans of Roberts will know, she always puts her heart into a role. In a media landscape that often feels dominated by politically charged think pieces, Space Cadet is here to remind the world that, sometimes, it’s okay to just sit back, relax, and enjoy. Not one to change your life, Space Cadet does exactly what it sets out to do — and is all the better for it. - Jake Hodges

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'Oppenheimer' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 93% | IMDb: 8.3/10

Oppenheimer

One-half of 2023’s biggest double feature, Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is a biopic about the man behind the atomic bomb, flicking between the moments that informed his choices and the consequences he faced after them. Most likely the most successful movie of 2023 by several metrics, Oppenheimer is a marvel of cinema, showcasing the very best in modern filmmaking technology. It isn’t just a fascinating technical piece, though, with an Academy Award-winning Cillian Murphy and many others delivering captivating performances thanks to a sometimes bombastic but always considered script. Considering his incredible catalog, it’s hard to call this Nolan’s magnum opus, but there is certainly a fair argument to make such a claim. - Jake Hodges

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'Pearl' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 7.0/10

Pearl

Co-written and directed by Ti West, this award-winning horror follows the titular Pearl (Mia Goth), a young woman for whom living on her parents’ farm and caring for her father is proving loveless. Living perpetually on the edge, Pearl decides to take the leap and pursue stardom, but what ungodly consequences might her leaving safety have? As A24 projects are famous for, nothing is simple in Pearl. From the soundtrack to the performances, each detail has been meticulously designed to feel off-kilter, with Goth perfectly encapsulating that erratic unease in her performance. A prequel to the 2022 slasher X, the two make for one killer of a double feature. - Jake Hodges

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'Tangerine' (2015)

Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 7.1/10

Tangerine

One of the most innovative movies of the 2010s, Tangerine follows Sin-Dee (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez), a woman returning to Tinseltown after 28 days away. With Christmas on the horizon, her holiday spirit is crushed after learning that the love of her life has cheated on her, which sets Sin-Dee on a mission to track him down at any cost. On its surface, Tangerine is already an immersive and gorgeous flick that oozes style and substance. However, when learning that the entire project was shot on the iPhone 5s, it becomes a masterpiece. Indulgent and inventive, Tangerine is early proof of the genius of its creator, Sean Baker, with the most recent Cannes Film Festival seeing the filmmaker pick up the Palm d’Or for his movie Anora. - Jake Hodges

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'Fast X' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 56% | IMDb: 5.8/10

Fast X

The remarkable 10th installment in one of the 21st century’s biggest franchises, Fast X follows the family-loving Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel), who will do anything to protect his family, going to eye-catching lengths to protect them, all whilst actually using the word “family” 56 times. Hitting every box on the checklist of Fast and Furious movies, Fast X is a wild ride from start to finish, punctuated by eye-popping action sequences and enough explosions to win a war. Featuring a who’s who of modern-day action heroes, from Jason Statham to Jason Momoa (as well as other people not called Jason), Fast X is the perfect popcorn action flick for anyone with even a slight taste for the franchise. - Jake Hodges

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'American Fiction' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 93% | IMDb: 7.5/10

American Fiction

Based on Percival Everett’s 2001 novel Erasure, American Fiction is a comedy-drama film written and directed by Cord Jefferson in his feature directorial debut. The movie stars Jeffrey Wright as a frustrated novelist whose attempt at satirizing stereotypical "Black" books is mistaken for serious literature. The movie boasts a talented ensemble cast, featuring Tracee Ellis Ross, Issa Rae, Sterling K. Brown, John Ortiz, Erika Alexander, Leslie Uggams, Adam Brody, and Keith David. American Fiction premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, where it received critical praise and won the People's Choice Award. The movie has received several awards and nominations, including the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. It’s a smart, witty piece of storytelling that’s been named one of the top 10 films of 2023 by the American Film Institute. Jeffrey Wright delivers a delightful and committed performance as he navigates the many turns of this insightful yet absurdly humorous journey. For fans of sharp, clear-eyed satire, American Fiction is a movie with a lot to say and a great way of saying it.

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'The Holdovers' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 97% IMDb: 7.9/10

The Holdovers

The Holdovers is a comedy-drama film set primarily in a New England boarding school in the 1970s. The movie was directed by Alexander Payne and written by David Hemingson. Paul Giamatti stars as curmudgeonly classics teacher Paul Hunnam, who is forced to spend the holidays chaperoning a handful of students with nowhere to go. His stuffy world opens up as he forms a bond with the recently bereaved school cafeteria manager, Mary Lamb (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), and a bright but troubled student, Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa). The Holdovers premiered at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival and received near-universal acclaim. Named one of the top 10 films of 2023 by the National Board of Review and the American Film Institute, the movie has won several accolades, including the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s heartbreaking performance. Full of beautiful, emotional performances, the film almost feels like the inverse of Dead Poets Society, with a student helping a teacher learn to find his place in the world. Though a Christmas movie in setting, The Holdovers is a film that’s sure to become a perennial favorite.

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'The Idea of You' (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 83% | IMDb: 6.5/10

The Idea of You (2024)

Based on Robinne Lee’s 2017 novel of the same name, The Idea of You is a rom-com starring Anne Hathaway as a single mom who finds an unexpected romance with the lead singer of a boy band, played by Nicholas Galitzine. The film was directed by Michael Showalter, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Jennifer Westfeldt. The Idea of You premiered at the 2024 South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, where it received largely positive reviews from critics. The movie has been hailed as a return to the classic romantic comedy mold, with compelling performances from its leads and a solid story. Anne Hathaway is, predictably, the highlight of the film, delivering a delightful performance and sharing great on-screen chemistry with Galitzine. Overall, The Idea of You is a funny, feel-good film that packs plenty of laughs and emotion but still finds the space to say some important things about love, life, and self-discovery.

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'The Miseducation of Cameron Post' (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 76% | IMDb: 6.6/10

The Miseducation of Cameron Post

Based on the 2012 novel by Emily M. Danforth, The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a coming-of-age drama set in the 90s that stars Chloë Grace Moretz as a teenager sent to a gay conversion therapy center. The movie was directed by Desiree Akhavan, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Cecilia Frugiuele. The film also stars John Gallagher Jr., Sasha Lane, Forrest Goodluck, Marin Ireland, and more. The Miseducation of Cameron Post premiered at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival to largely positive reviews. Critics have praised the humor, intelligence, and compassion that the movie brings to its timely and all-too-real subject. Moretz delivers a brilliant performance in the lead role, and Akhavan’s direction of the film is flawless. Perhaps the greatest triumph of The Miseducation of Cameron Post is the way the movie truthfully explores painful, tragic realities of life while still finding the joy in human connections that get you through the hurt.

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'Titanic' (1997)

Rotten Tomatoes: 88% | IMDb: 7.9/10

Titanic

James Cameron’s Titanic is part disaster film and part romantic drama. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, the film follows a young aristocratic girl who falls in love with a talented artist aboard the doomed ship. A secondary plot follows a treasure hunter searching for a valuable necklace that was lost when the ship sank. Titanic isn’t the best work of anyone involved, and yet it’s probably the biggest milestone in all their careers. The film was massively popular when it was first released and still captivates audiences today. It’s a classic romantic melodrama that features spectacular visuals, career-making performances, and unmatched directorial skill. People still debate aspects of the film (especially that scene) — a fact that demonstrates the movie’s tremendous staying power. Titanic is massive, stunning, and almost entirely fictional. In other words, it’s Hollywood at its best.

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'Top Gun' (1986)

Rotten Tomatoes: 57% | IMDb: 6.9/10

top gun

Directed by Tony Scott and written by Jim Cash and Jack Epps Jr, Top Gun stars Tom Cruise as Lieutenant Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, a young naval aviator who gets a chance to attend the Navy’s Fighter Weapons School, Top Gun. The movie also stars Kelly McGillis, Val Kilmer, Anthony Edwards, and Tom Skerritt. Top Gun received rather mixed reviews when it first premiered in 1986, but its visual effects and music were considered top-notch even then. In 2022, the film got a legacy sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, that has eclipsed the original to some extent. Nevertheless, the original Top Gun is a high-octane rollercoaster that continues to entertain audiences nearly 40 years after its release. A quintessential 1980s movie, Top Gun has inspired generations of movies, shows, and video games, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s the film that made Tom Cruise the household name he is today.

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'Frida' (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 7.4/10

Frida (2024)

Directed by Carla Gutierrez in her directorial debut, Frida is a documentary film following the life of legendary Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Based on Kahlo’s own writings, interviews, and correspondence, Frida blends archival material with animation to present a unique look at the artist’s legacy. The film explores key moments in Kahlo’s life, including her relationship with fellow artist Diego Rivera, her affair with Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky, and her time in the US.

Frida premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it received critical acclaim and won the US Documentary Jonathan Oppenheim Editing Award. An ambitious attempt at telling Kahlo’s story in her own words, the film also uses animation to bring some of her most iconic works to life. Frida premiered on Prime Video on March 14, 2024.

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'Road House' (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 68% | IMDb: 6.3/10

Road House (2024)

Read Our ReviewA modern reimagining of the 1989 Patrick Swayze film, Road House is an action drama movie that stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Daniela Melchior, and Conor McGregor in his feature film debut. Directed by Doug Liman, the film follows a former UFC fighter who takes a job as a bouncer at a roadhouse in the Florida Keys, only to discover dark secrets. The movie’s screenplay is by Anthony Bagarozzi and Chuck Mondry, and it’s produced by Joel Silver, who also produced the original.

Road House had its world premiere on March 8th, 2024, at the SXSW Festival. With largely positive reviews, the film is a well-executed update of the cult classic it’s based on. This isn’t the sort of movie you watch for the intricate plotting, but if adrenaline is what you’re looking for, then this is the film for you.

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'Bottoms' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 6.8/10

Bottoms

Read Our Review

Bottoms is a 2023 teen comedy starring Ayo Edebiri (The Bear), Ruby Cruz (Mare of Easttown), Rachel Sennott (Shiva Baby), Havana Rose Liu, and Kaia Gerber (Babylon). It tells the story of two unpopular students in high school who start a fight club in order to try and find other students to sleep with before graduation. The girls get more and more embroiled in their schemes as time goes on, facing challenges in their own friendship as well. Bottoms features a fun appearance by former NFL football star Marshawn Lynch, who has been expanding his acting resume in recent years.

The film was popular with audiences when it premiered, with critics liking its satirical nature and the way in which it flipped teen tropes on their heads. It was nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards, including Best Screenplay, as well as a GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film. - Emily Cappello

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'Belfast' (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes: 86% | IMDb: 7.2/10

Belfast

Read Our Review

Written and directed by Kenneth Branagh (Murder on the Orient Express), Belfast is a coming-of-age story about a boy’s childhood experiences in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The film takes place in 1969 at the beginning of The Troubles, which was an ethnonationalism conflict fueled by religious discrimination between Protestants and Catholics. While the film’s focus is mainly on nine-year-old Buddy (Jude Hill), it also includes his family life with Me (Caitríona Balfe), Pa (Jamie Dornan), and his older brother, Will (Lewis McAskie).

The film was widely praised by audiences and critics alike, winning Branaugh an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay at the 2022 Academy Awards, in addition to its six other nominations, including Best Picture. At the Golden Globes, Belfast won Best Screenplay in addition to its six other nominations. - Emily Cappello

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'Women Talking' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 6.9/10

Women Talking

Read Our ReviewBased on the book by Miriam Toews, Women Talking is a film that tackles a brutal topic: women living in an isolated religious community as they debate whether or not they can escape the abuse they’re experiencing. Directed and written for the screen by Sarah Polley, the film is an intense ride with many difficult scenes and visuals. It’s best to watch the film if you know you’re in the right headspace and won’t be personally affected by any of the material.

The film won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and received a Best Picture nomination. It was nominated for two Golden Globe Awards, including Best Original Score by Hildur Guonadóttir and Best Screenplay for Polley. The film stars Rooney Mara (The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo), Judith Ivey (The Devil’s Advocate), Claire Foy (First Man), Frances McDormand (Fargo), and Sheila McCarthy (The Day After Tomorrow). - Emily Cappello

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'The Blair Witch Project' (1999)

Rotten Tomatoes: 86% | IMDb: 6.5/10

The Blair Witch Project

Considered one of the first found footage horror films, The Blair Witch Project was co-created by Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sánchez, who wrote, directed, and edited the film. Starring Heather Donahue, Michael C. Williams, and Joshua Leonard as a trio of film students investigating a mythical witch, The Blair Witch Project succeeded by building not only a fictional documentary but also a brilliant marketing campaign centering on the missing, fictional film students.

Cleverly allowing audiences to freak themselves out rather than rely on scary movie cliches, The Blair Witch Project was groundbreaking and praised for reinvigorating the genre with new elements in the filmmaking game. - Yael Tygiel

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'Saltburn' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 71% | IMDb: 7.1

Saltburn

Written, directed, and co-produced by Promising Young Woman’s Emerald Fennell, Saltburn reunites her with Carey Mulligan, who appears alongside an incredible cast including Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike, and Richard E. Grant. Saltburn focuses on Oliver (Keoghan), a young man struggling through the social side of Oxford University when he’s invited to join the family of charismatic and classy Felix Catton (Elordi) on summer holiday. Wickedly exciting events ensue as the family’s eccentricities are revealed, forcing young Oliver to sink or swim.

Known for her clever storytelling and catchy visuals, Fennell pours her feverish style all over Saltburn. Like Promising Young Woman, Saltburn weaves a thrilling tale exploring the intersection of sex, violence, and class while slathering on a colorful veneer of secrets. Peppered with stellar acting, the talent within the ensemble cast is undeniable, yet it’s Fennell’s ability to maneuver through harshness and humor that sets Saltburn apart. - Yael Tygiel

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'Funny Girl' (1968)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.3/10

Funny Girl

Earning eight Academy Award nominations, Funny Girl is the iconic musical comedy film that was not only Barbra Streisand’s film debut but also gave her her first Oscar. Directed by William Wyler, Funny Girl is based on the true story of comedienne Fanny Brice (Streisand), her romance with Nick Arnstein (Omar Sharif), and her rise to stardom around World War I. Supported by Kay Medford and Anne Francis, Funny Girl was adapted by Isobel Lennart from her book for the semi-biographical Broadway show.

With recent returns to Broadway, allowing both Beanie Feldstein and Lea Michele a chance at playing Brice, Funny Girl continues to hold strong to its legacy, yet no performance is better than Streisand’s award-winning portrayal. With hilarious jokes and memorable quips, Funny Girl also shines due to the catchy, and now legendary, musical numbers, including Don’t Rain on My Parade and People. - Yael Tygiel

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'Heathers' (1989)

Rotten Tomatoes: 93% | IMDb: 7.2/10

Heathers

Heathers revolves around Veronica Sawyer, played by Winona Ryder, who is part of a popular but cruel clique of girls, all named Heather, at Westerburg High School. The Heathers, led by the domineering and ruthless Heather Chandler (Kim Walker), engage in manipulative and bullying behavior. Veronica becomes disillusioned with the Heathers and falls for a rebellious new student named Jason "J.D." Dean (Christian Slater). Together, they embark on a dark and satirical journey, inadvertently causing chaos and violence in the high school.

Even three decades later, Heathers remains an iconic movie about high school and has achieved cult classic status over the years, drawing a dedicated fan base. It satirically comments on high school social dynamics, bullying, and extremes, featuring memorable characters like the domineering Heather Chandler and rebellious J.D., who have left an enduring mark on pop culture. Additionally, Heathers is a unique blend of horror, satire, and teen drama, along with its sharp dialogue and dark high school politics, setting it apart in the high school movie genre. The film's distinctive '80s aesthetic and killer soundtrack also further enhance its visual and auditory appeal. Moreover, Ryder flawlessly embodies a character that fans can scarcely believe exists in real life, cementing it as one of her most iconic roles ever. - Jessie Nguyen

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'Sylvie's Love' (2020)

Rotten Tomatoes: 93% | IMDb: 6.8/10

Sylvie's Love

Set in the hot New York summer of 1957, Sylvie's Love tells the story of Robert (Nnamdi Asomugha), a saxophonist playing in a jazz quartet led by a less talented bandleader, and Sylvie (Tessa Thompson), a young woman dreaming of a television career while working at her father's record store as she awaits her fiancé's return from war. When Robert starts working part-time at the record store, their friendship ignites a profound passion in each of them, unlike anything they've ever experienced.

Sylvie's Love is a nostalgic throwback that envelops the audience in a lush cinematic tapestry of jazz, ambition, and starry-eyed enchantment, creating a captivating and evocative experience. Rather than following the typical "boy meets girl and falls in love" formula, the film presents a narrative that harks back to the classic storytelling of Hollywood's golden years — an approach that people of color should have had the opportunity to take on leading roles in. Furthermore, the film strikes a balance of being heartwarming without becoming overly sentimental. It also serves as a showcase for the exceptional chemistry between Thompson and Asomugha. In an era when Black love stories were rarely portrayed in this manner, it's wonderful that we've reached a point where such stories can be beautifully depicted. - Jessie Nguyen

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'Interstellar' (2014)

Rotten Tomatoes: 73% | IMDb: 8.7/10

Interstellar

Read Our ReviewThis critically acclaimed mind-bender from Christopher Nolan stars Matthew McConaughey as farmer and ex-NASA pilot Cooper, a man charged with entering a wormhole in an attempt to secure a future for humankind. Devastated by its brutal climate, Earth has become uninhabitable, and only a voyage through a newly-found wormhole can discover if another planet may become our new home. However, Cooper’s trip to save the world may, in fact, teach him more about his own life than anyone else’s.

Cinema at its visual best, Interstellar is a masterpiece in modern technology, managing to capture the vast scope and wonder of the universe without ever using broad strokes. Jonathan and Christopher Nolan’s time-bending narrative has to be seen to be believed, with the mind-boggling depths of space matched by the mind-boggling depths of this story. When incredible performances, eye-popping visuals, and a heartfelt story combine, you can guarantee a recipe for success, with Interstellar even winning an Academy Award. - Jake Hodges

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'Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 91% | IMDb: 7.3/10

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

Read Our ReviewBased on the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, this film by directors John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein tells the story of Chris Pine’s Edgin Darvis, a bard and former gang member who is left to bring up his daughter alone following the tragic death of his wife. After meeting Holga (Michelle Rodriguez), the two become close, with Holga even acting as a surrogate mother to Edgin’s daughter. As a team, they attempt to find a magic stone to bring the mother back to life but are frustratingly captured and imprisoned before they can succeed. With so much on the line, how will the care of a father defeat the improbable, all in the name of familial love?

Just like the game it comes from, Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is packed full of fun fantasy adventure, with many comparisons made to the Guardians of the Galaxy series. Among an all-star cast, Hugh Grant stands out in his all-new villain era, thriving thanks to his dastardly evil front with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Despite indulging in its own lore, the plot never loses sight of the genuine depth at its heart, with this movie certainly able to be enjoyed by the entire family. - Jake Hodges

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'Top Gun: Maverick' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 8.3/10

Top Gun: Maverick

After thirty years, Maverick is still pushing the envelope as a top naval aviator, but must confront ghosts of his past when he leads TOP GUN's elite graduates on a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those chosen to fly it.

Read Our ReviewSet 36 years after the release of the original, Top Gun: Maverick catches up with the titular high-flyer (Tom Cruise) after he rejoins the United States Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor program. No longer the budding young talent he once was, Maverick is charged with training up the heroes of tomorrow to face the toughest of missions. With his past also ready to be battled, that particular challenge manifests itself in the form of one of his trainees: the son of his deceased best friend Goose, played by Miles Teller.

Jam-packed full of action stunts and eye-popping set pieces, it could have been easy for director Joseph Kosinski and the rest of the Top Gun team to simply make an ode to the classic it is a sequel of, but Top Gun: Maverick instead uses the pedestal created by the original as a springboard to make one of the most exciting films of the 2020s so far. Put simply, there were many cries for this sequel to not be made, with plenty citing Top Gun’s satisfying ending as more than enough for this particular story… how wrong they were. - Jake Hodges

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'Nanny' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 5.3/10

Nanny

Read Our ReviewA film that found enormous success on the festival circuit before making its way to Prime, Nanny follows Aisha (Anna Diop), a woman who, whilst leaving her son behind, traveled from Senegal to New York City on the hunt for the American Dream. After becoming a nanny for a middle-class career-driven white couple, she ends up connecting with their 6-year-old daughter Rose (Rose Decker) as her life slowly becomes attached to this family’s. However, as the family unit begins to unravel, so does Aisha’s mental state, with her disconnection from her son causing much more harm than she had once thought.

A horror movie with a deeply personal central message, Nanny is a mature story that comes surprisingly as writer/director Nikyatu Jusu’s debut feature. Rather than simply molding to the generic expectations of horror, Jusu instead adds horror flourishings to a touching dramatic script with all the sadness and depth of a tragedy. The final twist is brilliantly crafted, with each beat of the story unexpectedly serving the film’s triumphant ending. Riddled with tension, Nanny must be added to your watch list with haste. - Jake Hodges

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'It's a Wonderful Life' (1947)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 8.6/10

It's a Wonderful Life

An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.

Read Our ReviewWidely regarded as the greatest Christmas movie of all time, It’s A Wonderful Life follows James Stewart’s businessman George who, after generously donating much of his life to those less fortunate than him, finds himself stuck in a rut on Christmas Eve after financial trouble. Fearing for his own safety after he is sure to be accused of a crime he didn’t commit, George makes the decision that the lives of his loved ones would be better off without him. That is until he is visited by an angel (Henry Travers). By showing George how much poorer life would have been if he had never been born, will the guardian angel finally restore George’s faith?

A story with the true spirit of Christmas at its heart, It’s A Wonderful Life is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, managing to blend tear-jerking drama with genuinely hope-filled fantasy. Considered legendary for a reason, James Stewart’s performance as George is quite possibly the iconic actor’s best, with the rest of the ensemble also in top form. Writer/director Frank Capra cements himself as one of the greats of Hollywood’s classic era, with this movie quite possibly his crowning achievement. - Jake Hodges

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'Val' (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.6/10

Val

Read Our ReviewThe celebrity documentary has become a staple of mainstream viewing over the last few years, with this particular example centering on the life of the Hollywood icon Val Kilmer. From unseen home footage from his childhood to an unfiltered look at his time as an actor from Batman to Top Gun, Val wades through the hundreds of hours of content from his life to cherry-pick a selection of moments that beautifully encapsulate the spectrum of experience of the beloved performer.

Directors Ting Poo and Leo Scott take a saturated genre and breathe new life into it with a storytelling style that feels straight out of an experimental piece. Raw and intimate, no punches are pulled in the depiction of Kilmer’s life, with the movie feeling like both an ode to the actor and a deep dive into some of the dangers of living such a high-profile life. Serving as a producer on the project, Val Kilmer himself adds a genuine sense of memory to the movie, creating an aura of nostalgia that will leave you in contemplative silence as the credits roll. - Jake Hodges

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'Lucy and Desi' (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.7/10

Lucy and Desi (2022)

Read Our ReviewDirected by comedy icon Amy Poehler, Lucy and Desi is a documentary centering on legendary comedian Lucille Ball. Focusing on her rise to fame and her well-documented relationship with Desi Arnaz, the film eventually covers the pair’s sitcom I Love Lucy — a show that changed the face of Hollywood forever. 33 years after her sad death, Lucy and Desi is an ode to the life of one of showbiz’s greatest stars.

A heartwarming peek behind the curtain of a hero of many, it is clear director Amy Poehler is a huge admirer of Lucille Ball, given the touching and honest way the movie pays tribute to her life. Despite being a wonderful trip down memory lane, Lucy and Desi is much more than a picture-perfect love letter to the golden age of media, showcasing a thought-provoking look at a woman and her sitcom that will forever be remembered as groundbreaking. - Jake Hodges

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'Everybody's Talking About Jamie' (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes: 82% | IMDb: 6.5/10

Everybody's Talking About Jamie

The musical comedy drama Everybody's Talking About Jamie is based on the stage musical of the same name, which tells the story of a teenager from Sheffield who dreams of becoming a drag queen. The film stars Max Harwood and features Richard E. Grant and Sharon Horgan.

Based on the hit musical of the same name, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is the heartwarming tale of 16-year-old Jamie (Max Harwood), who, bullied for his sexuality, learns to rise above the hate and use it to fuel his ever-burning desire to become a drag queen. The story itself is based on a true tale that originated from a BBC Three documentary titled Jamie: Drag Queen at 16 by Jenny Popplewell.

As an adaptation of a beloved musical, the movie is not simply a loving ode to the stage show but a fantastic feature film in its own right. Dazzling thanks to eye-catching musical numbers and heartbreaking thanks to its gutwrenching plot, the movie offers a deep dive into the plight young LGBTQIA+ people face, as well as a look at the failing class system of modern Britain. A difficult tale of struggling against the odds finds its happy ending as tears stream and smiles beam on the faces of all who watch this truly touching film. - Jake Hodges

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'One Night in Miami' (2020)

Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | IMDb: 7.1/10

One Night in Miami

One Night in Miami revolves around Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown, who all join one another in Miami to talk about the Civil Rights Movement of the '60s. The film was an Amazon Original Movie and was nominated for a total of three Oscars at the 2021 Academy Awards.

Read Our ReviewOn the evening of February 25, 1964, a world-altering night occurred between Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown that would change the course of the civil rights movement and, consequently, society forever. Depicting those events, One Night in Miami follows Ali in particular, played by Eli Goree (who stayed in character during the entirety of production) after he has just become the new Heavyweight Boxing Champion of the World. Unable to celebrate freely because of segregation laws, Ali instead spends his night with the aforementioned men, where a conversation about life, stardom, and the struggle for equality ignites a fire within them to push forward the civil rights movement and fight for justice.

Directed by Regina King, One Night in Miami is both a gripping piece of drama and a fascinating tool for education, with the true nature of the narrative amplifying just how powerful the film feels. A talented ensemble thrives thanks to a truly inspiring script from Kemp Powers, with each line of dialogue grounded by the weight of the evening’s cultural significance. Removing the importance of the story, One Night in Miami is still a captivating movie. But given the power of the tale told, the film takes on a whole new meaning. - Jake Hodges

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'Sound of Metal' (2020)

Rotten Tomatoes: 97% | IMDb: 7.7/10

Sound of Metal

Read Our ReviewThis Academy Award-winning drama from Darius Marder follows Riz Ahmed as metal drummer Ruben, a man who lives life fast and free as he chases his musical dream. However, whilst on tour, he suddenly realizes he is losing his hearing, with his condition rapidly deteriorating. With his dreams now in the balance and his life completely altered, Ruben joins a small Deaf community and finds hope within his despair. Spurred on by the community leader Joe (Paul Raci), can Ruben learn to not just live with his condition but harness it to create for himself a better life?

Nominated for the Best Actor Academy Award, Riz Ahmed turns in a spell-binding performance as Ruben, carrying the emotional weight of a heartbreaking narrative on his shoulders without ever losing the sense of musical freedom that is so key to the story. With a tale of learning to live without that which is most precious to us, the narrative is especially thought-provoking, acting as more than just a gripping drama. Rather, it's a thought experiment through which we can all ground our worldview. Wonderfully directed, Sound of Metal is a truly unique cinematic experience that will live long in the memory of its audience. - Jake Hodges

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'The Big Sick' (2017)

Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | IMDb: 7.5/10

The Big Sick

Read Our ReviewKumail Nanjiani plays a hopeful stand-up comedian in this romantic comedy from director Michael Showalter. After meeting and falling in love with Zoe Kazan’s Emily, the two ignore their cultural differences to find a life of harmony, ignorant to the outside world. However, after Emily contracts an awful illness that leaves her in a medically-induced coma, Kumail is forced to come face-to-face with her difficult family and must finally come to terms with just how tricky their relationship is likely to be, as well as his family’s intention to find him a wife.

Packed full of Kumain Nanjiani’s successful brand of comedy, with the man himself writing on the project, The Big Sick is a laugh-a-minute romp with a touching central message surrounding the search for both love and self-confidence. Full of chucklesome twists, the narrative spirals into hilarious territory, made even funnier by the fact that the story itself is true and based upon Nanjiani’s own relationship with co-writer Emily V. Gordon. Finding light through darkness, The Big Sick manages to pull tender comedy out of a deeply tragic set of circumstances. With a story defined by such tragic illness, it is clear that laughter really might be the best medicine.

Critic Matt Goldberg praised the film’s authenticity and originality, stating that “it’s unique, funny, and avoids obvious traps that come with an indie romantic comedy by always staying true to Nanjiani and Gordon’s experiences. The film is hilarious, surprisingly emotional, and it has a big heart.” - Jake Hodges

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'Suspiria' (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 66% | IMDb: 6.7/10

Suspiria Remake

A darkness swirls at the center of a world-renowned dance company, one that will engulf the artistic director, an ambitious young dancer, and a grieving psychotherapist. Some will succumb to the nightmare. Others will finally wake up.

Read Our ReviewThis twisted fantasy horror follows Dakota Johnson as Susie Bannion, a talented ballerina who moves to Berlin to study dancing at the world-renowned Madame Blanc's Markos Tanz Company. Not long after arriving, a student who had not long been expelled from the school is murdered, arousing the suspicion of Bannion. As it becomes clear that this is not the first tragedy of its kind at the school, Susie learns that a dark secret was held by one of the murdered students — a secret that she had leaked before her death. With a conspiracy turning into reality, just how deep with the horrors of the school go?

Charged with an almighty amount of tension, Suspiria crawls underneath the skin of its viewers and buries into their nightmares with its unwavering sense of paranoia. Backed by a superb supporting cast highlighted by Tilda Swinton, the movie spirals out of control as it hurtles further into a dark abyss of tragedy and mystery. Based on the 1977 Italian supernatural horror of the same name, this adaptation not only does justice to its originator but finds its own nuance that allows this story to stand out independently as a masterpiece in modern psychological horror. - Jake Hodges

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'Invisible Life' (2019)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.7/10

Invisible Life

This Brazilian drama set in 1950s Rio de Janeiro follows the restrained lives of two sisters, Eurídice (Carol Duarte) and Guida (Julia Stockler), under the strict rule of their parents. Both are fueled by separate dreams, with Eurídice dreaming of becoming a pianist and Guida dreaming of finding love, and tragically, the two are suddenly forced apart. Now worlds away from one another, they both struggle in the pursuit of their goals, but will their desire to reunite spur them on to success?

As Brazil’s official entry for the 92nd Academy Awards, The Invisible Life of Eurídice Gusmao is a touching story of hope and love. Despite losing touch for so long, the movie shows that a familial connection is undying, proving that time can never withhold love’s power. Both Carol Duarte and Julia Stockler are magnificent in the lead roles, with their genuine chemistry, even when not on-screen together, enough to fool many into thinking that the two may actually be related. Powered by a truly kind soul, The Invisible Life of Eurídice Gusmao really is a must-watch, although its NSFW nature should probably rule it out of family viewing. - Jake Hodges

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'The Handmaiden' (2016)

Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 8.1/10

The Handmaiden

Read Our ReviewThis BAFTA-winning thriller from Park Chan-wook is set during the 1930s Japanese occupation of Korea and follows Kim Tae-ri’s Sook-He after she is hired to become the new handmaiden on the secluded countryside estate of the mysterious Lady Hideko (Kim Min-hee). However, Sook-He is not as innocent as she looks, with her true identity as a pickpocket tasked with helping a swindler fool Lady Hideko into marrying him so he can steal her fortune. Not everything goes to plan, though, as the unsuspecting Sook-He and Lady Hideko suddenly find themselves developing feelings hard to keep quiet from one another.

A strong sexual tale with scenes just as NSFW as one might imagine, The Handmaiden is much more than a love story, despite its central romance certainly being compelling. Beyond that, the film is also a tale of deceit and a period piece very much interested in the political climate of its time. Weaving between the endearingly sensual and the devilishly dark, the pensive plot burns with a brooding sense of tension, culminating in a satisfying ending that leaves just enough ambiguity to tickle the inquisitive corners of the mind. Park Chan-wook brings his A-game once again, with fans of Oldboy likely to be both surprised and delighted by The Handmaiden. - Jake Hodges

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'Paterson' (2016)

Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 7.3/10

Paterson

Read Our ReviewPaterson follows Adam Driver as the titular protagonist — a man who lives every day just as he did the last with the sense of regimented routine one could expect from the military. Fascinated by his mundane reality, Paterson secretly keeps a book of poetry within which he writes what he observes in his unique style. Eager to keep this artistic flair within his life under wraps, his wife Laura (Golshifteh Farahani) encourages him to share his talent with the world.

Quite literally a poetic musing on the beauty of ordinary life, Paterson is a masterclass in visual storytelling from writer/director Jim Jarmusch. Inspired by the real-world poetry of William Carlos Williams, a name that is crucial to the story itself, Paterson finds significance in not searching for significance, emphasizing how something’s worth is not based on what it means but simply by what it is. Contemplative, philosophical, and cinematically eye-catching, Paterson, as its message suggests, wants you to enjoy it as a film and nothing more, something perhaps we could all benefit from once in a while. - Jake Hodges

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