Thrillers might dominate Prime Video’s charts (and every other major streaming service), but sometimes all that intensity is the last thing you’re in the mood for. As the season of joy rolls in, a warm, feel-good movie can be the perfect reset button.
Prime Video’s library is huge, though, which means finding the truly uplifting gems isn’t always easy. Not every title has that cosy charm or mood-boosting magic you’re actually craving. So, to save you the scrolling, I’ve picked out five of the best feel-good movies you can stream on Prime Video right now.
‘The Map of Tiny Perfect Things’ (2021)
“The Map of Tiny Perfect Things” is one of those romance movies that tends to be overlooked in the genre, especially when people gravitate toward staples like “The Notebook” or “Titanic.” Yet each viewing only deepens my appreciation for this understated treasure. The chemistry between the leads feels wonderfully real, and the story itself brings a light, refreshing twist to a genre that’s often overcrowded.
Seventeen-year-old Mark (Kyle Allen) is stuck reliving the same day on a constant loop, but he’s made the most of it, helping others and embracing familiar routines. One day, he meets Margaret (Kathryn Newton), who’s trapped in the same time loop. Together, they start mapping out the small, perfect moments that make their day meaningful. As they grow closer, they struggle with whether to break free or stay in this endless, strangely comforting cycle.
Stream it on Prime Video
‘Red One’ (2024)
It only feels right to include a Christmas movie on this list. After all, the season calls for something fun, festive and lighthearted. Holiday flicks have a way of lifting your spirits with their playful chaos, charming characters, and feel-good energy, and “Red One” fits the bill perfectly. Despite lukewarm reviews from critics and the fact that it has yet to come close to covering its staggering $250 million budget at the box office, it still delivers plenty of entertaining streaming fun.
When Santa Claus (J. K. Simmons) is kidnapped on Christmas Eve, Callum Drift (Dwayne Johnson), the head of North Pole security, must team up with a morally ambiguous hacker and bounty hunter, Jack O’Malley (Chris Evans). Their globe‑trotting, high-stakes mission leads them deep into mythological threats, including evil holiday creatures, magical snow globes, and a sinister plot to sabotage Christmas.
Stream it on Prime Video
‘Mamma Mia’ (2008)
Part of what makes “Mamma Mia” so unforgettable is its delightful, exuberant chaos, which only adds to the movie’s charm and romantic sparkle. Beyond its production values, it does exactly what it intends: entertain and celebrate ABBA’s iconic hits. Songs like Dancing Queen are impossible not to sing along to, and their infectious energy always sweeps me up in pure joy.
On the Greek island of Kalokairi, Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried) is preparing for her wedding, but she has no idea who her father is. Hoping to uncover the truth, she secretly invites three men from her mother Donna’s (Meryl Streep) past: Sam (Pierce Brosnan), Bill (Stellan Skarsgård), and Harry (Colin Firth). Their arrival sparks rekindled romances, long-hidden secrets, and turns Sophie’s wedding weekend into a delightfully chaotic and joyful celebration.
Stream it on Prime Video
‘Upgraded’ (2024)
“Upgraded” manages to rise above the usual rom-com tropes, strengthened by a charming supporting cast and lands gracefully in the heart of the genre. At its core, it’s a story about self-discovery and personal growth, following a young woman as she navigates ambition, love, and the twists and turns that come with “upgrading” her career and chasing her dreams.
Ana Santos (Camila Mendes) is an ambitious art intern in New York who feels overlooked, until a lucky upgrade to first class on her work trip to London changes everything. On the plane, she meets charming Will (Archie Renaux) and lies about being his boss. As the lie spirals, Ana is drawn into a glamorous world of high society, romance, and opportunity, but risks losing everything when the truth comes out.
Stream it on Prime Video
‘The Tender Bar’ (2022)
“The Tender Bar” isn’t driven by grand dramatic set pieces, but by a quietly unfolding story of self-discovery and family bonds. It’s tender, warm, and thoughtful. Director George Clooney opts for a restrained approach, letting the narrative breathe rather than relying on flashy techniques, which is a surprisingly comforting choice. He allows the movie to move at a gentle pace, giving Ben Affleck space to deliver the heartfelt, supportive presence that anchors the story.
Based on J.R. Moehringer’s memoir, “The Tender Bar” follows young J.R. Maguire (Daniel Ranieri / Tye Sheridan) growing up on Long Island without his father. Raised by his single mother, Dorothy (Lily Rabe), J.R. finds a surrogate dad in his charismatic Uncle Charlie (Affleck), who tends bar at The Dickens and serves up wisdom, wit, and life lessons. As J.R. matures, he leans on the bar’s quirky regulars for guidance and discovers a deep love of reading and writing.
Stream it on Prime Video
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