12 Best Amazon Prime Movies to Watch for Free (2024) 

Lights, Camera, Action… 

Ah, movies—the flickering giants of our leisure time. Some scoff, calling them a mindless escape, a two-hour distraction from the “real world.” However, for someone like me who’s spent years dissecting stories, movies are more than just moving pictures. They’re a prism reflecting the human experience. We laugh with goofy comedies, even sob, and ponder life’s big questions.

Think about it. Movies can spark empathy as we root for the underdog, grapple with complex moral dilemmas, and even confront our own fears. They can be a mirror to society, holding up a sometimes uncomfortable truth but also reminding us of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.

However, this very spirit is lost and confused with the biggest question of this era— which movie should I watch today?

This blog – 12 Best Amazon Prime Movies to Watch for Free (2024), is the answer, providing a helping hand to our indecisiveness when picking the Best Movies on Amazon Prime.

1. Raging Bull

Martin Scorsese’s filmography is a sprawling landscape, but for many, 1980s Raging Bull was his crowning achievement. Modern cinephiles revere it as a classic, but critics back then weren’t exactly throwing roses. Adapted from Jake LaMotta’s raw memoir, Raging Bull’s unflinching portrayal of the boxer’s life initially landed blows for being too violent.

Despite a box office knockout (meaning it flopped), Raging Bull racked up eight Oscar nominations, winning two – Best Editing and a searing Best Actor performance for Robert De Niro. De Niro’s portrayal of LaMotta is a masterclass in raw intensity, showcasing his dedication and ferocious talent. So, even if boxing movies aren’t your usual ringside seat, give Raging Bull a shot, as it might top your list of best movies on Amazon Prime.

2. Notting Hill

The 90s were a golden age for rom-coms, with classics like Sleepless in Seattle and As Good As It Gets leaving a lasting mark. But nestled amongst these gems is Notting Hill, a charming tale that adds a dash of British wit to the familiar meet-cute formula.

Hugh Grant shines as the endearingly awkward William Thacker, a bookstore owner whose life takes a Hollywood turn when the captivating Julia Roberts (playing a famous actress) stumbles into his shop.  Their contrasting worlds collide, creating a hilarious fish-out-of-water dynamic.  Despite their differences, a spark ignites, and the path to happily-ever-after unfolds, even if the ending might be a bit predictable.

Notting Hill was a hit with critics and audiences, ranking at the top of our list of 12 best Amazon Prime movies. It’s a feel-good film with a winning combination of humor, romance, and a dash of British charm. If you’re looking for a classic rom-com that will leave you smiling, Notting Hill on Amazon Prime Video is the perfect escape.

3. Get Out

Jordan Peele’s comedic background might lead you to expect slapstick, but Get Out throws a knockout punch into the horror genre. This isn’t your average scare-fest; it’s a layered masterpiece working on two levels, making it one of the best options for Amazon Prime movies. On the surface, we follow the characters’ journeys. But beneath the laughs lies a chilling subtext, a descent into the darkest reaches of human cruelty.

Get Out isn’t afraid to confront the ugly truth of racism. It takes the deep-seated fears of the African-American community and twists them into a terrifying sci-fi metaphor. Here, escape is impossible. The body becomes a prison, stolen and controlled. It is a vision of despair that will linger in your memory long after the credits roll.

And the critics agree – Get Out boasts a near-perfect 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes. So, if you’re looking for a horror film that transcends jump scares and delivers a powerful social commentary, this movie is the perfect fit. 

4. The Green Knight

Dev Patel’s star continues to rise with his captivating performance in The Green Knight.  Here, he takes on the mantle of Sir Gawain, King Arthur’s nephew and a Knight of the Round Table.  While the core characters remain familiar, director David Lowery infuses the Arthurian legend with a fresh, almost parodic perspective.

The Green Knight is a feast for the senses, offering profound contemplations on courage, faith, desire, honesty, and the intoxicating allure of power. Sir Gawain’s perilous quest may leave his fate hanging in the balance. His journey pushes him to the brink, revealing the true measure of his character.

Patel delivers a captivating performance, making The Green Knight one of the best Amazon Prime movies, a must-watch for anyone seeking a visually stunning and thought-provoking reimagining of a timeless tale.

5. Saltburn

The 2023’s buzziest word in pop culture was not a song or a dance craze but a movie- Saltburn, one of the best movies on Amazon Prime. This darkly atmospheric film follows Oliver (played by Barry Keoghan) as he visits his friend Felix’s family home for the summer. What starts as a carefree hangout takes a sharp turn as Oliver develops an intense, unsettling affection for Felix.

The lines between friendship and dangerous obsession blur, leaving Felix’s family in the crossfire. The unpredictable narrative will keep you guessing until the very end. Saltburn boasts powerhouse performances from Carey Mulligan, Rosamund Pike, and Barry Keoghan, with Jacob Elordi solidifying his online fame.

It may not be a flawless masterpiece, but sometimes, a bit of imperfection can be the secret ingredient to a truly captivating experience.

6. Red, White & Royal Blue

Amazon Studios struck gold with Red, White & Royal Blue, a delightful rom-com that’s become a beacon for LGBTQ+ audiences in 2023. Based on Casey McQuiston’s beloved novel, it’s the perfect escape for fans of the genre seeking a subversive twist.

The film throws protocol out the window when the First Son of the United States, Alex, falls for Henry, a prince in line for the British throne. Theirs is a love story splashed across international headlines, making for a sensational (and yes, the title is a dead giveaway) romance.

Sure, the sparks may fly with melodramatic flair, but Red, White & Royal Blue expertly blends sugar-sweet moments with a dash of real-world intrigue. It’s a fairy tale with a modern twist, a perfect option from Amazon Prime movies, seeking a queer rom-com that’s leagues ahead of predictable attempts like Love, Simon.

7. Interstellar

While Christopher Nolan’s 2023 hit Oppenheimer garnered acclaim, his sci-fi masterpiece Interstellar remains a standout among the best movies on Amazon Prime. This tale of humanity’s desperate gamble for survival takes astronaut Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) on an intergalactic odyssey.

Interstellar tackles mind-bending scientific concepts but translates them into visually breathtaking space travel. Audiences are left in awe of the cosmos’ vast beauty and the profound loneliness it holds. Though some may find the emotional core lacking, the film’s sheer visual spectacle is a triumph, making it a must-watch from Amazon Prime movies for sci-fi fans.

8. Top Gun: Maverick

Tom Cruise returns as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in Top Gun: Maverick, a high-octane sequel that reignited the magic of cinema on Amazon Prime movies. Decades later, Maverick is at his old stomping ground, training a new generation of elite pilots. But facing the past – including the grown son of his late wingman Goose – forces him to confront who he’s become.

Top Gun: Maverick defied pandemic odds, becoming the first billion-dollar film since COVID. With its pulse-pounding action, mind-blowing stunts, and sky-high stakes, it’s a cinematic spectacle that critics agree surpasses the original.

9. Manchester by the Sea

Lee Chandler’s life in quiet Manchester-by-the-Sea is disrupted when his teenage nephew Patrick arrives, orphaned by tragedy. Forced into a reluctant guardianship, Lee grapples with the past as Patrick’s presence compels him to confront buried secrets.

Manchester by the Sea is a raw, unflinching portrayal of grief and trauma, making it a unique choice to watch on Amazon Prime movies. Casey Affleck’s Oscar-winning performance anchors the film as Lee navigates the messy reality of loss. It’s a nuanced exploration that avoids easy answers, offering a profound and tender look at a life forever marked by heartbreak. This Amazon Prime gem is a must-watch for anyone seeking a film that delves deep into the complexities of human emotions.

10. Heathers

Heathers isn’t your typical high school movie. Forget teen heartthrobs and cafeteria food fights. This darkly comedic gem skewers the vicious world of cliques, where a trio of popular girls named Heather rules the roost. Veronica, the lone non-Heather, joins forces with the new bad boy, J.D., to dismantle the queen bee’s reign – with hilariously deadly consequences.

Heathers is one of the must-watch Amazon Prime movies for fans of dark comedy. Winona Ryder shines as Veronica, solidifying her status as a scream queen legend. It’s a scathing satire of John Hughes’ rosy-hued teen films, offering an unflinching look at the brutal reality of surviving high school’s social minefield. Laughter and gasps are guaranteed.

11. Sound of Metal

Riz Ahmed delivers a powerful performance as Ruben, a recovering heroin addict who finds solace in drumming. But his world is shattered when he loses his hearing. Now, Ruben faces a life-altering choice: fight to regain his hearing or embrace his new reality as a deaf person.

Sound of Metal transcends music. It’s a raw and emotional journey exploring disability, loss, and the power of human connection. Critics praised the film’s authentic portrayal of deafness, featuring American Sign Language (ASL) and innovative sound design that creates a truly immersive experience and is worthy to rank on our list of best movies on Amazon Prime for free.

12. Everything Everywhere All at Once

Everything Everywhere All At Once (streaming on Amazon Prime) is NOT your average multiverse movie. Michelle Yeoh is phenomenal as Evelyn, a Chinese-American immigrant swept into an interdimensional adventure.

Evelyn isn’t just battling bizarre alternate realities – she’s grappling with family, regret, and the weight of unspoken truths. Prepare for hilarious fights, heartwarming moments, and a powerful exploration of self-discovery.

EEAAO dominated the 2023 Oscars, winning Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Supporting Actor (and holding the record for most-awarded film ever). We had to include it in our list of top Amazon Prime movies.

Conclusion 

Sure, unlike our list of 12 Best Amazon Prime Movies to Watch, not every movie is a masterpiece. However, they can provide a much-needed escape, a chance to recharge. Laughter is a powerful medicine, after all.

The truth is that movies being as objective as they are, also have a subjective ripple of different effects on individuals. Some can crack you up while some provoke thought, and some do both. They can be a waste of time or a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the world around us. It all depends on what you choose to watch and what you choose to take away.

So, the next time you settle in for a movie night, don’t forget to go through our list of best Amazon Prime movies. You might just be surprised by what you find.