3 new to Prime Video thriller movies to stream this week — and one of them is a mobster movie almost as iconic as ‘The Godfather’ (May 5-11)

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Looking for thrillers on Prime Video this week? You’ve come to the right place. I’ve combed through the Amazon-owned streaming service’s slate for May 2026 and picked out the latest genre picks on the platform.

Prime Video has a habit of kicking off the month with a huge movie drop, and this month has been no exception. On May 1, a slew of films were added to the service’s movie library, and among the dozens of new additions are several thrillers worth adding to your watch list.

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Best new to Prime Video thriller movies this week

‘Scarface’ (1983)

Scarface (1983) Blu-Ray Release Trailer HD - YouTube Scarface (1983) Blu-Ray Release Trailer HD - YouTube
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When it comes to mobster movies, “The Godfather” has no equal, but “Scarface” is one of a rare crop of rivals that has built a legacy nearly as impressive. This Brian De Palma classic had to do things the hard way. It was initially poorly received by critics, but over time, it has been deservedly re-evaluated and is now rightfully considered a genre titan. Even if you’ve never seen “Scarface,” you almost certainly have seen something inspired by the 1983 flick.

Starring Al Pacino in one of his most iconic roles as Tony Montana, this crime epic follows its protagonist as he arrives in Miami, Florida, alongside close friend Manny (Steven Bauer). Before long, Tony begins working in the city’s drug trade, with ambitions of rising the ranks and creating his own criminal empire. But as his power grows, so does his hubris, and most dangerous of all, his list of enemies. And before long, Tony’s paranoia puts his drug operation in danger.

Watch "Scarface" on Prime Video now

‘The Equalizer 2’ (2018)

THE EQUALIZER 2 - Official Trailer (HD) - YouTube THE EQUALIZER 2 - Official Trailer (HD) - YouTube
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Last week, I highlighted “The Equalizer,” so it only makes sense to give some attention to its follow-up this week. This 2018 action-thriller marked the first time that Denzel Washington starred in a sequel to one of his own movies. “The Equalizer 2” doesn’t entirely avoid “second movie syndrome,” but it’s still an entertaining watch, with Washington slipping back to the role of former Marine, turned vigilante Robert McCall with ease.

Following the events of the first movie, Robert McCall (Washington) now works as a driver and protector of the innocent by night. However, his crusade for justice becomes personal when his close friend, Susan (Melissa Leo), is killed during an apparent murder-suicide. Embarking on a globe-trotting quest to find the true culprits, he must use all his skills and resources to avenge the death of his friend. The first two “Equazlier” movies make for a great double-bill, and you can even throw in the third (though "The Equazlier 3" is not on Prime Video at present).

Watch "The Equalizer 2" on Prime Video now

‘In the Heat of the Night’ (1967)

In The Heat Of The Night (1967) | Official Trailer | MGM Studios - YouTube In The Heat Of The Night (1967) | Official Trailer | MGM Studios - YouTube
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“In the Heat of the Night” is definitely a classic. This mystery thriller starring Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger is based on John Ball’s novel of the same name, and was showered with gold at the 40th Academy Awards, picking up five Oscars, including the Best Picture trophy. While Steiger might have scooped Best Actor for his performance as Police Chief Bill Gillespie, it’s Poitier as Detective Virgil Tibbs that has truly stood the test of time and become one of the icons' most enduring and beloved roles.

After the murder of a wealthy tycoon in Sparta, Mississippi, the local police force initially arrests a black man passing through the town for the crime, but they are forced to quickly walk back their incorrect suspicions when they learn he’s actually a detective. At a loss on how to proceed, they enlist Tibbs’ help in solving the case. Pairing a compelling mystery with a powerful exploration of discrimination, “In the Heat of the Night” is excellent.

Watch "In the Heat of the Night" on Prime Video now


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Rory Mellon
Senior Entertainment Editor (UK)

Rory is a Senior Entertainment Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on gaming and streaming. When he’s not reviewing the latest games, searching for hidden gems on Netflix, or writing hot takes on new gaming hardware, TV shows and movies, he can be found attending music festivals and getting far too emotionally invested in his favorite football team.

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