Since Transparent started receiving accolades in 2015, Amazon has dived into the world of movies and received praise for their recent film releases. Amazon Studios brings a diverse range of movies to the big screen, showcasing the talents of both renowned directors and rising stars.
One standout film from Amazon Studios is Chi-Raq, a captivating creation by the legendary filmmaker Spike Lee. Another gem is The Big Sick, a heartwarming tale written by the fresh and talented screenwriters Emily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani. This independent film made waves in 2017, capturing the hearts of many. Amazon Studios continues to make its mark in the movie industry with notable productions like Elvis & Nixon, Love & Friendship, and Gleason. And let’s not forget their other amazing releases such as The Neon Demon, The Handmaiden, Manchester by the Sea, and Last Flag Flying.
Prepare to be entertained as we present a comprehensive list of all the fantastic movies brought to you by Amazon Studios.
1. The Big Sick
Kumail is this Pakistani comic, right? And one day, he meets this American grad student named Emily at one of his stand-up shows. They hit it off and start dating. But here’s the thing – Kumail starts freaking out about what his traditional Muslim parents are going to think of Emily.
Then, out of nowhere, Emily gets really sick and ends up in a coma. And guess what? Kumail finds himself forming this unexpected bond with her super worried mom and dad.
Released: 2017
Directed by: Michael Showalter
Actors: Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan, Holly Hunter
2. The Handmaiden
The Handmaiden, released in 2016, is a South Korean erotic psychological thriller helmed by Park Chan-wook. The story revolves around a woman who takes on the role of a handmaiden for a Japanese heiress. However, unbeknownst to everyone, she is part of a covert scheme to deceive the heiress and steal from her.
Released: 2016
Directed by: Park Chan-wook
Actors: Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, Ha Jung-woo
3. You Were Never Really Here
A contract killer discovers a conspiracy while attempting to rescue a kidnapped teenager from a life of prostitution.
Released: 2017
Directed by: Lynne Ramsay
Actors: Joaquin Phoenix, Ekaterina Samsonov, Alessandro Nivola
4. Manchester by the Sea
After his older brother Joe passes away, Lee Chandler (played by Casey Affleck) is completely taken aback when he learns that Joe has chosen him as the sole guardian of his teenage nephew, Patrick. Reluctantly, Lee leaves his job as a janitor in Boston and heads back to Manchester-by-the-Sea, the fishing village where his blue-collar family has resided for countless generations. In this small town, Lee is confronted with a painful past that not only tore him apart from his wife, Randi (portrayed by Michelle Williams), but also alienated him from the community where he was born and raised.
Released: 2016
Directed by: Kenneth Lonergan
Actors: Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler
5. Last Flag Flying
Last Flag Flying is a drama film from 2017, directed by Richard Linklater. It tells the story of Larry “Doc” Shepherd, a former Navy Corpsman. After the tragic loss of his son in the Iraq war, he decides to gather his old pals, Sal Nealon and Reverend Richard Mueller, to give him a proper burial. The film stars Steve Carell as Doc Shepherd, Bryan Cranston as Sal Nealon, and Laurence Fishburne as Reverend Mueller.
Released: 2017
Directed by: Richard Linklater
Actors: Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston, Laurence Fishburne
6. Life Itself
Life Itself, directed by Dan Fogelman, is a captivating drama film released in 2018. The story beautifully weaves together the lives of individuals spanning multiple generations, all the way from New York to Spain.”
“The film explores the intricate connections and coincidences that occur throughout our lives. It delves into the profound impact that one person’s choices can have on the lives of others, even across geographical boundaries.”
“Life Itself takes us on a journey through time, showcasing how the lives of seemingly unrelated characters become intertwined in unexpected and profound ways. The narrative gracefully shifts between New York and Spain, offering a unique perspective on the human experience.”
“With its heartfelt storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Life Itself invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of our existence. It reminds us that our actions ripple through time and space, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of those around us.”
“Through its masterful direction and richly developed characters, Life Itself delivers a poignant and emotionally resonant tale. It serves as a reminder that no matter where we come from, our lives are intricately linked, and every choice we make has the potential to shape the lives of others.
Released: 2018
Directed by: Dan Fogelman
Actors: Oscar Isaac, Olivia Cooke, Antonio Banderas
7. The Lost City of Z
In the early 1900s, a British explorer named Percy Fawcett embarks on a journey to the Amazon. What he stumbles upon is mind-blowing – signs of an ancient civilization that no one knew existed in the region. The scientific community, unfortunately, mocks Fawcett’s findings and dismisses the indigenous people as uncivilized.
But Fawcett is not one to give up easily. With unwavering support from his wife, son, and aide-de-camp, he decides to return to the jungle he loves so much. His goal? To gather more evidence and prove that his theory is true.
Released: 2016
Directed by: James Gray
Actors: Charlie Hunnam, Robert Pattinson, Sienna Miller
8. Paterson
Paterson is a drama film from 2016, written and directed by Jim Jarmusch. The movie follows the story of Paterson, a bus driver and aspiring poet, brilliantly portrayed by Adam Driver. His wife, played by Golshifteh Farahani, dreams of becoming a country music star and running her own cupcake business.”
“In the film, we witness Paterson’s daily routine as he drives his bus through the streets of Paterson, New Jersey. Along the way, he observes the city’s inhabitants and finds inspiration for his poetry. Meanwhile, his wife pursues her dreams, creating a dynamic between their aspirations and the realities of their daily lives.”
“Adam Driver brings depth and authenticity to the character of Paterson, capturing his quiet determination and passion for poetry. Golshifteh Farahani portrays the wife’s ambitious spirit and her desire to break free from the ordinary.”
“As the story unfolds, we are taken on a journey through the couple’s dreams and aspirations, exploring the beauty in their ordinary lives. Jim Jarmusch’s direction embraces simplicity, allowing the characters and their emotions to take center stage.”
“Paterson is a heartfelt exploration of the creative process, the pursuit of dreams, and the beauty found in the mundane. It reminds us that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places, and that our dreams are worth pursuing, no matter how small or unattainable they may seem.
Released: 2016
Directed by: Jim Jarmusch
Actors: Adam Driver, Golshifteh Farahani, Barry Shabaka Henley
9. Wiener-Dog
Wiener-Dog is a quirky and hilarious American comedy film from 2016. It’s directed by Todd Solondz and serves as a spinoff of the 1995 film, Welcome to the Dollhouse. The main character in this film is a dachshund that goes through a series of peculiar owners. As the dog moves from one eccentric owner to another, their incredibly dysfunctional lives are all affected by the presence of this adorable pooch.
Released: 2016
Directed by: Todd Solondz
Actors: Ellen Burstyn, Kieran Culkin, Julie Delpy
10. Beautiful Boy
Teenager Nicolas Sheff appears to have it all. He excels academically, holds the esteemed position of editor at the school newspaper, and is a talented actor, artist, and athlete. Life seems to be going well for him.
However, trouble lurks beneath the surface as Nic becomes entangled in the clutches of meth addiction. This destructive habit poses a serious threat to his well-being, and it becomes a race against time to save him and his family.
In a bid to rescue his son, Nic’s father goes to extreme lengths. Desperation fuels his determination as he tries everything within his power to bring his son back from the brink. The bonds of family are put to the test, and the father’s love becomes a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
Released: 2018
Directed by: Felix van Groeningen
Actors: Steve Carell, Timothée Chalamet, Maura Tierney
11. The Neon Demon
The Neon Demon, released in 2016, is a gripping psychological horror film helmed by Nicolas Winding Refn. The story revolves around a young, up-and-coming model named Elle Fanning, who finds herself at the center of a mesmerizing and envious world in Los Angeles’ competitive fashion industry.”
In this chilling tale, Fanning’s character captivates the attention and sparks intense jealousy among her peers. The film delves into the dark underbelly of the glamorous modeling industry, exploring the lengths individuals might go to attain success and the sinister consequences that can arise from such ambition
Released: 2016
Directed by: Nicolas Winding Refn
Actors: Elle Fanning, Karl Glusman, Jena Malone
