There is no streaming service that has every movie under the sun, but if you’ve searched on Amazon Prime Video, you may realize that there are plenty of interesting titles worth exploring. If you’ve browsed before and found yourself overwhelmed by all the options available to you, we have everything you need.
We’ve put together three of the best and most underrated movies available on Prime Video that are worth watching this weekend. Each movie from these films is directed by a master in their own right, but these titles in particular are not the most famous.
We also have guides for the best movies on Netflix, the best movies on Hulu, the best movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best movies on Max, and the best movies on Disney+.
The King of Comedy (1982)
If you’re a fan of Joker, you must watch the film that directly inspired it. The King of Comedy is one of Martin Scorsese’s lesser-known films, but it definitely deserves your attention. The film tells the story of a wannabe comedian who becomes increasingly convinced that his fleeting relationship with a late-night talk show host will ultimately be his big break.
In order to turn this dream into reality, he takes increasingly drastic measures. Featuring one of Robert De Niro’s most underappreciated performances, The King of Comedy is not as extreme as Joker, but it’s chillingly logical.
You can watch The King of Comedy on Amazon Prime Video.
Red Rocket (2021)
Red Rocket is a fantastic and uncomfortable film about a washed-up porn star who starts planning his comeback upon returning to his hometown where no one is willing to embrace him. Anchored by a brilliant central performance from Simon Rex, Red Rocket is a highly uncomfortable film about a man caught in a cycle of self-destructive behavior.
Like all of director Sean Baker’s films (including the upcoming 2024 release, Anorra), Red Rocket shines a light on a very specific type of American story that is often overlooked by major Hollywood productions. The film received all the praise it deserved upon its initial release.
You can watch Red Rocket on Amazon Prime Video.
The Master (2012)
Based on Scientology, The Master tells the story of a World War II veteran who is clearly troubled by the war and the rest of his life, as he finds himself under the influence of the charismatic leader of a new religious cult. As he tries to understand the strange teachings of his new religion, he finds himself in conflict with other members of the group who see him as a threat.
Featuring standout performances from Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, and Philip Seymour Hoffman, The Master is a film about strange people behaving strangely, but it’s intriguing and funny from start to finish.
You can watch The Master on Amazon Prime Video.
