While Amazon Prime Video is known for its popular releases, it also boasts a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For those seeking something different, a journey beyond the mainstream, Prime Video presents a diverse selection of films worth exploring. This weekend, we recommend three underrated titles that showcase the depth and variety of its catalog.
The Day of the Jackal (1973)
In the 1970s, political thrillers were a staple of cinema, and *The Day of the Jackal* stands out as one of the best. This gripping film follows a terrorist group determined to assassinate the French president. After multiple failed attempts, they hire a notorious hitman known as the Jackal, who begins his methodical pursuit of his target. Meanwhile, a Parisian detective races against time to uncover the Jackal’s identity before it’s too late.
*The Day of the Jackal* is a masterclass in suspense, with its constant shifting allegiances and escalating tension keeping you on the edge of your seat. Its impact is undeniable even 50 years later. A TV remake starring Eddie Redmayne is slated for release this fall on Peacock, making now an excellent time to revisit the film that inspired it.
Cosmopolis (2012)
Robert Pattinson, fresh off his *Twilight* fame, showcases his versatility in *Cosmopolis*, a captivating drama that explores the complexities of wealth, power, and the human condition. The film follows a young, wealthy man traveling across Manhattan in a limousine, encountering increasingly bizarre obstacles that disrupt his day.
Directed by the visionary David Cronenberg, *Cosmopolis* hinges on Pattinson’s ability to convincingly portray the emotional turmoil of his character. While the protagonist isn’t entirely sympathetic, Pattinson’s performance invites empathy, allowing viewers to understand the man behind the wealth as his journey becomes increasingly strange and unpredictable.
Bullets Over Broadway (1994)
Woody Allen’s career has been marred by controversy, but his filmography undeniably contains some exceptional movies. *Bullets Over Broadway* is one of them, a hilarious satire that pokes fun at the world of theater and the inflated egos that inhabit it.
Set in the 1920s, the film follows a struggling Broadway director who makes a deal with a mobster to secure funding for his production. Allen’s sharp wit is evident in the script, which delivers witty observations about the world of theater and the self-importance that often accompanies it. The film boasts a stellar cast, including John Cusack, Mary Louise Parker, and Oscar winner Dianne Wiest, adding to its comedic brilliance.
Despite the controversy surrounding its director, *Bullets Over Broadway* stands as a testament to Allen’s talent for crafting insightful and entertaining comedies. It’s a film that will make you laugh out loud while also prompting reflection on the human condition.
