Are you tired of endlessly scrolling through Amazon Prime Video looking for something to watch? Look no further than our comprehensive guide to the best movies on the platform in 2023. With curated lists for every genre and interest, you’ll never run out of great films to watch.
But how do you decide which movies to prioritize on your watchlist? Our guide takes into account factors like critical acclaim, box office success, and audience reception to bring you the most highly recommended films.
And don’t worry, we’ve also got you covered with recommendations for the best movies on other streaming platforms. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic drama or an action-packed blockbuster, our guide has got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to stream your way through the year’s best movies.
Best Movies 2023
You’re looking for the best movies on Amazon Prime Video in 2023, and we’ve got you covered.
From classics like ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘Dog Day Afternoon’ to recent hits like ‘Arrival’, ‘House of Gucci’, and ‘Moneyball’, there’s something for everyone on this list.
These movies are sure to entertain and impress, with a mix of genres and styles.
12 Years a Slave
If you’re looking for a powerful and thought-provoking film, 12 Years a Slave is a must-watch. Director Steve McQueen takes viewers on a heart-wrenching journey through the life of Solomon Northup, a free black man who is abducted and sold into slavery in the antebellum United States. The film is based on Northup’s memoir, and it offers a stark and unflinching look at the horrors of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit.
Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers a powerful performance as Northup, and Michael Fassbender is chillingly convincing as a sadistic slave owner.
One of the strengths of 12 Years a Slave is its attention to historical detail. The filmmakers went to great lengths to recreate the look and feel of the antebellum South, and the result is a film that feels authentic and immersive. The cinematography is stunning, and the soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful.
As difficult as it can be to watch at times, 12 Years a Slave is an important reminder of the atrocities of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.
Product specs:
- Genre: Biography, Drama, History
- Runtime: 2 hours 14 minutes
- Stars: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Kenneth Williams, Michael Fassbender
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10 (717K votes)
- Awards: 3 Oscars including Best Picture, 1 Golden Globe, 1 BAFTA
Pros:
- Powerful and thought-provoking
- Attention to historical detail
- Stunning cinematography and haunting soundtrack
- Important reminder of the atrocities of slavery
Cons:
- Can be difficult to watch at times
- May not be suitable for all audiences
- Some historical inaccuracies
Arrival
You’ll be captivated by the stunning visuals and thought-provoking storyline in Arrival, as a linguist’s communication with aliens leads to a profound exploration of language, time, and humanity. Arrival’s cinematography and special effects are truly breathtaking, immersing you in the alien world and creating a sense of wonder and awe.
With a talented cast, including Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, and Forest Whitaker, Arrival delves into the complexities of communication and the power of language to shape our understanding of the world. As the linguist, Louise Banks, struggles to decipher the alien language and establish a means of communication, she also grapples with personal grief and the realization that her work may have far-reaching implications.
The film’s exploration of language and its role in shaping our understanding of the world is both fascinating and thought-provoking, leaving you with a sense of wonder and a renewed appreciation for the power of communication. The hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, featuring Max Richter’s ‘On the Nature of Daylight’, perfectly complements the film’s emotional depth and adds to the overall experience.
Pros:
- Stunning visuals and special effects
- Engaging storyline that explores the complexities of communication and language
- Strong performances from the talented cast
Cons:
- May be slow-paced for some viewers
- Some may find the ending ambiguous or unsatisfying
- Not a typical action-packed sci-fi film.
Product Specs:
- Title: Arrival
- Year: 2016
- Director: Denis Villeneuve
- Writers: Eric Heisserer, Ted Chiang
- Stars: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker
- Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
- Duration: 1h 56m
- Rating: PG-13
- IMDb rating: 7.9/10
- Popularity: 330
Dog Day Afternoon
While bank robberies are typically depicted as action-packed and thrilling in movies, Dog Day Afternoon portrays the heist as a bizarre and chaotic nightmare. The film captures the climate of the 70s in a sober and authentic manner, questioning the contrived cinematic conventions of the bank heist genre.
The tension in the movie is derived from pointed guns unable to fire or move away. Firing a gunshot is a big deal in real life, and the movie portrays it realistically.
Al Pacino’s performance in the movie is legendary and unforgettable. He speaks volumes with his eyes and soul, illustrating why he has earned himself legendary status with his performances. The movie features a big ensemble cast, including John Cazale and Penelope Allen.
The homosexual theme in the movie is handled ahead of its time, and the movie is inspired and handled with freshness and talent.
Product Specs:
- Title: Dog Day Afternoon
- Year: 1975
- Length: 2h 5m
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 8.0/10 with 264K votes
Pros:
- Realistic portrayal of a bank heist
- Legendary performance by Al Pacino
- Unique handling of a homosexual theme
- Tension and suspense derived from realistic situations
- Questioning of contrived cinematic conventions
Cons:
- May not appeal to those who prefer traditional bank heist movies
- Some viewers may find the chaotic nature of the heist overwhelming
- Depiction of violence may be disturbing to some viewers.
House of Gucci
Experience the decadence and betrayal of the Gucci family as Lady Gaga and Adam Driver lead a great cast in Ridley Scott’s House of Gucci. This biographical crime drama delves into the story of Patrizia Reggiani, who marries into the Gucci family and sets off a chain of events that leads to revenge and murder. The film also stars Al Pacino and Jared Leto, who delivers a standout performance as Paolo Gucci.
With a runtime of 2 hours and 38 minutes, House of Gucci offers a captivating and immersive experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The film boasts a charismatic art direction that transports you to the luxurious and glamorous world of the Gucci family. The performances from the cast are top-notch, with Lady Gaga and Adam Driver delivering strong and nuanced portrayals of their characters. The soundtrack, featuring the hauntingly beautiful song ‘La ragazza col maglione,’ adds another layer of depth to the film’s emotional impact.
Product Specs:
- Title: House of Gucci
- Year: 2021
- Director: Ridley Scott
- Stars: Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Al Pacino, Jared Leto
- Duration: 2h 38m
- IMDb Rating: 6.6/146K
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Aspect ratio: 2.39 : 1
Pros:
- Strong performances from the cast
- Charismatic art direction
- Immersive experience
Cons:
- Confused direction in some parts
- Post production problems
Moneyball
Get ready for a thrilling ride as you witness Billy Beane, played by Brad Pitt, use computer-generated analysis to build a competitive baseball team on a tight budget in the drama film Moneyball. The movie is based on the true story of how Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics, went against traditional scouting methods and relied on statistical analysis to draft players. The film explores themes of management, loyalty, and talent scouting in the sports genre.
Moneyball is a captivating movie that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The film is well-written and expertly directed, with standout performances by Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill. The use of computer-generated analysis to build a team adds an interesting and unique twist to the classic sports movie formula. Additionally, the film’s themes of loyalty and talent scouting make it a thought-provoking and emotionally satisfying experience.
Product specs:
- Title: Moneyball
- Year: 2011
- Director: Bennett Miller
- Writers: Steven Zaillian, Aaron Sorkin, Stan Chervin
- Stars: Brad Pitt, Robin Wright, Jonah Hill
- Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport
- Rating: PG-13
- Duration: 2h 13m
- IMDb rating: 7.6/441K
- Popularity: 643
- User reviews: 542
Pros:
- Expertly written and directed
- Standout performances by Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill
- Unique twist on the classic sports movie formula
- Thought-provoking themes of loyalty and talent scouting
Cons:
- May not appeal to those who aren’t fans of baseball or sports movies
- Some viewers may find the use of statistical analysis in sports to be dry or uninteresting
- The film’s pacing may be slow for some viewers.
Factors to Consider When Buying Prime Video
When considering buying Prime Video, there are several factors you should take into account.
Firstly, the cost is an important consideration, as you want to ensure that you’re getting value for your money.
Secondly, you should look at the selection of content available. You want to make sure that there are plenty of movies and TV shows that you’ll enjoy.
Finally, you should consider the video quality and compatibility with your devices, as well as the user interface. This ensures that you have a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience.
Cost
If you’re looking for a streaming service that won’t break the bank, Amazon Prime Video is a great option. With your Prime membership, you can access a rotating selection of free movies and TV shows, including some of the best movies of 2023.
While the selection may not be as extensive as some other streaming services, you can still find plenty of critically acclaimed and popular films to watch without having to pay extra. In addition to the free movies, Prime Video also offers the option to rent or buy movies and TV shows that are not included in the free selection.
However, if you’re looking to save money, it’s best to stick to the free options. With so many great movies available at no additional cost, you can spend hours streaming without worrying about adding extra expenses to your monthly budget.
Content selection
Accessing a wide variety of critically acclaimed and popular films without any additional costs is just one of the many benefits of subscribing to Amazon Prime. With a constantly updated selection of movies, Amazon Prime Video offers a range of genres from drama to horror, action to comedy, and everything in between.
The platform is also home to a mix of old and new films, offering a great opportunity for viewers to catch up on classics or discover new favorites. Amazon Prime Video not only offers a diverse selection of movies, but also includes Amazon Originals, giving subscribers exclusive access to new content.
From historical dramas like ‘One Night in Miami’ to coming-of-age stories like ‘Licorice Pizza,’ Amazon Originals are often critically acclaimed and highly praised by audiences. Additionally, Amazon Prime Video offers a range of family-friendly films, making it a great option for movie nights with loved ones.
With such a vast array of movies to choose from, Amazon Prime Video is a great investment for any film lover looking for quality content without the added expense.
Video quality
You can enjoy crystal clear video quality with Amazon Prime’s extensive collection of films. Prime Video delivers stunning visuals that immerse you in the story, from the sweeping landscapes of classic Westerns to the dazzling special effects of modern blockbusters. The platform offers a range of resolutions, including 4K Ultra HD, so you can experience every detail and texture with unparalleled clarity.
Prime Video’s commitment to quality extends beyond picture resolution. The platform offers advanced streaming technology that optimizes your viewing experience based on your internet connection. With adaptive bitrate streaming, the platform adjusts the video quality in real-time to ensure smooth playback, even on slower connections.
Whether you’re watching on a big screen or a mobile device, Prime Video delivers an engaging and seamless viewing experience.
Compatibility with devices
Want to watch your favorite movies on any device? Amazon Prime’s got you covered! The platform is compatible with a range of devices, making it easy to enjoy your favorite films on-the-go. Whether you prefer to watch movies on your phone, tablet, laptop, or TV, Amazon Prime Video can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.
The platform is also compatible with popular streaming devices, such as Chromecast, Roku, and Fire TV Stick, allowing you to stream movies directly on your TV. Amazon Prime Video offers a seamless and user-friendly experience across all devices. You’ll find easy navigation and search functions to help you find what you’re looking for quickly.
The platform also allows you to download movies and TV shows to your device for offline viewing—perfect for those times when you don’t have access to the internet. With its compatibility across a range of devices and user-friendly interface, Amazon Prime Video is the perfect platform for movie lovers. You can watch your favorite films anytime, anywhere!
User interface
Navigating through Amazon Prime’s interface is a breeze, with its intuitive design and easy-to-use features. The user interface is clean and uncluttered, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.
The search function is prominent and allows you to search for movies by title, actor, or genre. The layout is also customizable, allowing you to adjust the size of the movie posters and choose how the movies are organized.
One feature that sets Amazon Prime Video apart from other streaming services is the ability to download movies and TV shows for offline viewing. This is especially useful for traveling or when you don’t have access to a reliable internet connection. The download button is easy to find and the download speed is fast, allowing you to watch your favorite movies and TV shows without interruption.
Overall, Amazon Prime Video’s user interface is user-friendly and efficient, making it a great choice for movie lovers.
Subtitles and languages
If you’re watching a foreign film on Amazon Prime, don’t forget to turn on the subtitles or switch to the language you prefer for a better viewing experience.
Amazon Prime Video offers a wide range of subtitles and language options to cater to viewers from different parts of the world. Whether you’re watching a French romantic film or a Japanese anime, you can easily find the subtitles or language option that works for you.
To turn on subtitles or switch languages, simply click on the ‘Subtitles and Audio’ option on the video player. You can then choose from a variety of languages and subtitle options.
Some films also offer audio tracks in multiple languages, so you can enjoy the film in its original language or with a dubbed track. With Amazon Prime Video’s extensive selection of subtitles and languages, you can fully immerse yourself in the films you love and expand your cinematic horizons.
Availability in your region
Don’t miss out on the cinematic gems waiting for you on Amazon Prime. Discover which movies are available in your region and open yourself up to a world of thrilling stories and unforgettable characters.
Amazon Prime Video has a vast selection of movies, but availability can vary depending on your location. To ensure that you have access to the best movies on Amazon Prime, check out the ‘Prime Video’ section on Amazon’s website and browse the movies available in your region.
Make sure to also check for any regional restrictions or limitations that may affect your viewing experience. Some movies may not be available in certain countries or may have language restrictions.
By taking the time to research which movies are available in your region, you can fully immerse yourself in the world of Amazon Prime Video and enjoy the best movies the platform has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Amazon Prime Video’s selection of movies compare to other streaming services?
You might be wondering how Amazon Prime Video’s movie selection stacks up against other streaming services. While each service has its own strengths, Prime Video offers a wide range of genres and includes both classics and recent hits, making it a strong contender in the streaming market.
Are there any upcoming original movies or series on Amazon Prime Video to look out for in 2023?
You’re in luck! Amazon Prime Video has several original movies and series set to release in 2023. Look out for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ series, ‘The Wheel of Time’, ‘The Power’, and ‘Panic’. Get excited for new content coming soon.
Can you access Amazon Prime Video on multiple devices at the same time?
Yes, you can access Amazon Prime Video on multiple devices at the same time. Amazon Prime allows you to stream on up to 3 devices simultaneously with one account, making it convenient for families and roommates.
Is there a way to filter or search for specific genres or types of movies on Amazon Prime Video?
Looking for specific genres or types of movies on Amazon Prime Video? You’re in luck! The platform offers various filters to help you narrow down your search, including by genre, year, language, and more. Happy browsing!
Are there any limitations to streaming quality or resolution on Amazon Prime Video?
Yes, Amazon Prime Video has limitations on streaming quality and resolution, which can vary depending on the device you’re using and your internet connection. However, Prime Video offers options to adjust the quality to match your device and internet speed.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve got a comprehensive guide to the best movies on Amazon Prime Video in 2023. With a range of genres and options for every taste, you’ll never run out of great films to watch.
From classic dramas to action-packed blockbusters, family-friendly flicks to chilling horror movies, this guide has got you covered. When deciding which movies to watch, consider factors such as your personal taste, critical acclaim, and cultural relevance. Whether you’re looking for entertainment or education, there’s something for everyone on Prime Video.
So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a year of unforgettable movie experiences. This guide is a must-read for anyone looking to make the most of their Prime Video subscription. As the saying goes, “the proof of the pudding is in the eating,”so start streaming and discover the best movies of 2023.