If you’re looking for new to Prime Video movies to watch over the weekend, then you’ve got plenty of options. The streaming platform has recently bolstered its library with dozens of new arrivals, and I’ve combed through the entire list to bring you a curated trio of personal highlights.
Because it’s “The Odyssey” release weekend, it’s no coincidence that two of my picks star Matt Damon, who headlines Christopher Nolan’s new acclaimed historical epic. And even better, these aren't run-of-the-mill Damon flicks; these are two of his very best works. And for those who want something totally different, I’ve also found a ludicrously silly teen comedy.
These are the recently added Prime Video movies you need to watch this weekend; add them to your watchlist now if you’re planning a movie night over the next couple of days.
‘The Martian’ (2015)
![The Martian | Official Trailer [HD] | 20th Century FOX - YouTube](https://img.youtube.com/vi/ej3ioOneTy8/maxresdefault.jpg)
It’s set to be a big weekend for Matt Damon, as the veteran actor headlines Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” which hits theaters today (Friday, July 17) and is tracking to earn an eye-watering amount of money. If you want to watch some of Damon’s very best flicks before (or after) venturing out to see “The Odyssey” for yourself, “The Martian” is my first-choice pick.
Based on Andy Weir’s novel, this sci-fi adventure sees Damon play Mark Watney, an astronaut who is presumed dead during a hasty evacuation of the big red planet. Only Watney didn't die, and he faces the prospect of finding a way to survive in the harshest of conditions and contact NASA so they can begin a rescue mission. It’s thrilling stuff, and perfect for fans of “Project Hail Mary,” which was also based on an Andy Weir novel.
Watch "The Martian" on Prime Video now
‘Saving Private Ryan’ (1998)
It almost feels silly trying to convince you to watch “Saving Private Ryan.” This epic war movie from director Steven Spielberg speaks for itself and is widely upheld as one of the greatest WWII films ever made. It deserves its sterling reputation, delivering a visceral war story that’s emotional, triumphant, and consistently engaging. Plus, it packs an impressive cast led by Tom Hanks, with a supporting role for a certain Matt Damon as well.
Opening during the D-Day landings on Omaha Beach in June 1944, “Saving Private Ryan” follows a platoon of American soldiers who are given the task of locating the eponymous private so that he can be reunited with his grieving mother. Trekking across war-torn France, the men, led by Captain John Miller (Hanks), face numerous hardships, and as their numbers thin, start to question if the life of one man is worth such great personal sacrifice.
Watch "Saving Private Ryan" on Prime Video now
‘Bottoms’ (2023)
“Bottoms” is one of the silliest movies I’ve watched in years, and I say that very much as a compliment. It completely leans into the chaos, delivering irreverent humor at such a fast clip you might want to watch it twice just to catch all the jokes you’ll miss the first time. It’s also spearheaded by Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri, which is a particularly strong selling point.
Loveable losers PJ (Sennott) and Josie (Edebiri) are two teens out of place in their stereotypical high school where the football jocks serve as the ruling class. After a farcical series of events, they find themselves starting a fight club for girls, which is really a ruse to meet and hook up with popular cheerleaders. It all builds up to one of the most ridiculous finales you’ll ever see, so strap in for a satirical comedy that proves silly can also be smart.
Watch "Bottoms" on Prime Video now
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