21 Best Prime Video Original Series

Prime Video offers a vast array of shows across genres, from sci-fi and comedy to action thrillers and crime mysteries. This abundance of choices can make it challenging to find the perfect show, especially when you’re unsure what you’re in the mood for. To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of the best original shows on Prime Video, allowing you to spend less time scrolling and more time enjoying. Happy watching!

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Based on the 2011 film, “Hanna” follows the gripping story of a 15-year-old girl (Esme Creed-Miles) who has been raised in isolation by her father (Joel Kinnaman) in the remote wilderness. Unbeknownst to her, Hanna is the product of a CIA experiment, engineered to be a super-soldier with enhanced DNA. Her tranquil existence is shattered when CIA operatives come to reclaim her, thrusting Hanna into a perilous journey of self-discovery.

The series masterfully blends action, drama, and suspense, as Hanna navigates her newfound abilities and the dangers that come with them. Esme Creed-Miles delivers a standout performance as the titular character, capturing Hanna’s vulnerability and fierce determination. Joel Kinnaman’s portrayal of her father adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the complexities of their relationship and the sacrifices made to keep her safe.

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“Carnival Row” immerses viewers in a world where oppressed mythical beings live alongside humans, struggling to coexist amidst tension and fear. The series follows Philo (Orlando Bloom), a half-human, half-fae detective, who investigates a series of murders linked to the mythical creatures while concealing his true identity from his human peers. Set in a Victorian-inspired dystopian world, “Carnival Row” weaves together elements of fantasy, noir, and socio-political commentary, creating a rich and captivating narrative.

The show’s portrayal of the mythical beings’ plight draws clear parallels to the experiences of immigrant populations, highlighting themes of prejudice, fear, and the quest for acceptance. Despite occasionally juggling too many storylines, “Carnival Row” excels in creating an intriguing and immersive world. The series’ murder-mystery aspect and neo-noir tone add layers of suspense and depth, making it a compelling watch for fans of the urban fantasy subgenre.

Created by “The Office” showrunner Greg Daniels, “Upload” transports viewers to the year 2033, where technology has advanced to the point that humans can upload their consciousness into a virtual afterlife. The story centers on Nathan Brown (Robbie Amell), a computer programmer who chooses to upload himself after an untimely death. In this digital paradise, Nathan quickly discovers that his new existence is tightly controlled by his living girlfriend, Ingrid (Allegra Edwards), complicating matters further as he starts to develop feelings for Nora (Andy Allo), his customer service representative in the afterlife.

Set against a backdrop of futuristic technology and digital dilemmas, “Upload” combines wacky humor and charismatic characters with thought-provoking themes. The series is a testament to Greg Daniels’ brilliance, blending light-hearted moments with deep explorations of grief, legacy, and the human condition. Nathan’s adjustment to the virtual afterlife is fraught with challenges, particularly as he begins to suspect that his death might not have been an accident.

Set during the summer of 1985 at the Red Oaks Country Club in suburban New Jersey, “Red Oaks” is a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and coming-of-age drama. Created by Joe Gangemi and Gregory Jacobs, the series stars Craig Roberts as David Meyers, a college student working as a tennis pro assistant at the club to earn some extra cash. Amidst the backdrop of carefree summer days, David navigates his ambitions, relationships, and family expectations.

Jennifer Grey shines as David’s eccentric, hippie-influenced mother, adding a touch of whimsical charm to the series. Comedian Richard Kind portrays David’s hard-edged father, who is adamant about his son pursuing a stable career as an accountant after graduating from New York University. However, David harbors a secret dream of becoming a filmmaker, a passion he keeps hidden from his father.

“Red Oaks” captures the essence of 1980s nostalgia with its vibrant setting, engaging characters, and relatable storylines. The series explores themes of youthful ambition, the clash of generational values, and the bittersweet moments of growing up. The dynamic between David and his parents adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a lighthearted summer tale.

Winner of two Primetime Emmys, “The Man in the High Castle” explores a chilling alternate reality where the Allied Powers lost World War II. In this dystopian future, Imperial Japan and Nazi Germany rule over a divided United States. Alexa Davalos stars as Juliana Crain, a woman who stumbles upon newsreels depicting a different outcome of the war, where the Allies were victorious. These mysterious films, attributed to the enigmatic “Man in the High Castle,” spark a perilous hunt as both oppressive regimes seek to suppress this unsettling truth.

Adapted from Philip K. Dick’s acclaimed 1962 novel, the series expertly translates the original tale’s paranoid drama to the screen, delivering a viewing experience that is both immersive and unsettling. The show’s creators have meticulously crafted a world that, while fictional, feels disturbingly plausible. This authenticity amplifies the tension and eerie atmosphere that permeates each episode.

Co-created by Bryan Cranston, “Sneaky Pete” stars Giovanni Ribisi as Marius, a convicted con man who finds himself in even deeper trouble after his release from prison. Marius’s newfound freedom is short-lived as he becomes the target of a vengeful gangster he once robbed. With his life in imminent danger, Marius assumes the identity of his former cellmate, Pete, and integrates himself into Pete’s unsuspecting family.

Originally passed on by CBS, “Sneaky Pete” found its home on Amazon Prime Video, where it quickly gained a following. Bryan Cranston’s cameo in the pilot and his influential role in the show’s creation were pivotal in its eventual green-lighting and subsequent success. Cranston’s involvement brought a touch of “Breaking Bad” prestige, drawing viewers and critical acclaim alike.

Based on the acclaimed novel by Neil Gaiman and the late Terry Pratchett, “Good Omens” stars David Tennant as the demon Crowley and Michael Sheen as the angel Aziraphale. These two celestial beings have been friends since the dawn of time, despite their opposing religious affiliations. Now, they must secretly collaborate after the antichrist is placed on Earth, triggering the countdown to Armageddon.

“Good Omens” dives deep into Christian theology, crafting a fantastical universe filled with humor and wit. The series stands out for its portrayal of one of the best friendships on TV. Through their millennia-long relationship, Aziraphale and Crowley discover that good and evil are not absolutes, but rather exist on a spectrum. This nuanced exploration of morality adds depth to their characters and the overall narrative.

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan is a political action thriller starring John Krasinski in the titular role of CIA Analyst Jack Ryan, who is unexpectedly pushed into dangerous field missions. Utilizing his keen intelligence, Ryan uncovers a pattern of communication among terrorists, making him an indispensable asset to the US government and a key player in global security.

The series which is based on Tom Clancy’s detailed espionage and military-science books adheres to the classic technothriller formula but distinguishes itself with Krasinski’s dynamic performance. He brings a fresh, modern twist to the character of Jack Ryan, blending wit and empathy with traditional heroics. This nuanced portrayal sets him apart from other action heroes and resonates with contemporary audiences.

“Jack Ryan” stands out for its authenticity in depicting worldwide missions. The show’s commitment to realism, combined with high-stakes action and intricate plotting, ensures a captivating experience.

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Based on Lee Child’s acclaimed novels, “Reacher” stars Alan Ritchson as the former military policeman turned vigilante. Set in Margrave, Georgia, the story follows Reacher, who is wrongfully convicted of murder. What initially appears to be a case of mistaken identity soon unravels into a complex conspiracy reaching the highest echelons of power.

“Reacher” quickly became Amazon Prime’s most-watched series of 2023, and it’s easy to see why. With two seasons currently available, each season adapts a standalone story from Child’s book series, offering viewers a fresh and thrilling narrative every time. The show’s combination of intense action, intricate plotting, and Ritchson’s compelling performance has captivated audiences worldwide.

“Reacher” seamlessly blends suspense, mystery, and action, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and thrillers. The series’ faithful adaptation of the source material, coupled with its high production values, ensures a gripping viewing experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

“ZeroZeroZero,” based on the book by “Gomorrah” author Roberto Saviano, offers an intense exploration of the global cocaine trade. The series meticulously tracks a massive shipment of cocaine, charting its path from production by the Mexican cartel, through the distribution by the Italian crime syndicate, to the American financiers who control the profits. This intricate web of illegal activity sets the stage for a gripping narrative, where the breakdown of even a single link can trigger an epic power struggle with dire consequences.

The show delves deep into the underbelly of the drug trade, highlighting the intricate operations and dangerous alliances that sustain this illicit industry. The Mexican cartel’s brutal efficiency, the Italian syndicate’s cunning strategies, and the American financiers’ cold calculations are all brought to life with compelling performances and high-stakes drama.

Based on Blair Tindall’s memoir, Mozart in the Jungle: Sex, Drugs, and Classical Music follows the journey of aspiring oboist Hailey Rutledge, portrayed by Lola Kirke, as she navigates the demanding world of classical music. After a disastrous audition for the New York Symphony, Hailey manages to avoid complete humiliation by securing a position as the assistant to the symphony’s new and unconventional conductor, Rodrigo De Souza, played by Gael García Bernal. Rodrigo proves to be a fascinating and unpredictable mentor, sparking both professional and personal growth for Hailey.

Mozart in the Jungle is a delightful blend of chaos, heartwarming moments, and romance, enriched by a stellar supporting cast including Bernadette Peters, Saffron Burrows, and Malcolm McDowell. These actors bring to life various members of the symphony, each adding depth and humor as they attempt to manage Rodrigo’s eccentricities and support Hailey’s aspirations.

The series stands out for its unique portrayal of the classical music world, offering a fresh perspective on the lives and struggles of musicians. Over its four-season run, with each episode being a concise and engaging half-hour, Mozart in the Jungle makes for an easy and enjoyable binge-watch. It captures the same warmth and positivity that fans of Apple TV’s Ted Lasso would appreciate, blending humor, drama, and romance into a harmonious narrative.

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David E. Kelley and Jonathan Shapiro’s legal drama Goliath centers on Billy McBride, played by Billy Bob Thornton, a once-prominent attorney whose life unravels after a killer he successfully defended murders an entire family. The series, which captivated audiences for four seasons before concluding in 2021, delves into the dark and complex world of legal battles, corruption, and personal redemption.

One of Goliath‘s most compelling features is its deep psychological exploration of its characters. The show goes beyond typical legal drama by focusing intensely on the personal struggles and moral ambiguities faced by McBride and those around him. This nuanced approach adds a rich layer of drama, making each episode a profound study of character and consequence.

Prime Video’s first-ever adult animated series, Undone, follows Alma, a young woman who gains a new relationship with time after a near-death experience. With this newfound ability, Alma embarks on a quest to uncover the mysterious circumstances surrounding her father’s death. The show employs rotoscoping, a unique animation technique that uses live-action footage as the basis for its animation, resulting in a fluid and realistic visual style that surpasses even the best CGI.

Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg and Kate Purdy, both alums of BoJack Horseman, Undone ran for two captivating seasons. The series stars Rosa Salazar (Alita: Battle Angel) as Alma, alongside Angelique Cabral (Life in Pieces) and Constance Marie (George Lopez). The show also features notable recurring roles from Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul), who plays Alma’s father, and Daveed Diggs (Hamilton), who portrays her boss.

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Call it a comedy-drama, a black comedy, a political drama, or a spy thriller—Steve Conrad’s Patriot effortlessly fits into multiple genres. Premiering in 2015, the show follows John Tavner, an intelligence officer tasked with preventing Iran from going nuclear. Under the guise of an industrial piping firm employee, John navigates a treacherous landscape filled with suspicious colleagues, a relentless European cop hot on his trail, and his own battle with PTSD.

Nominated for Best Comedy Series by the Critics Choice Awards, Patriot masterfully blends dark humor with intense drama, creating a uniquely compelling narrative across its two seasons. John’s undercover mission is far from straightforward, complicated by the need to maintain his cover while dealing with the psychological toll of his covert activities. His life is a delicate balancing act, as he maneuvers through a series of increasingly absurd and dangerous situations.

Patriot is not just about espionage; it delves into the emotional and psychological impacts of living a double life. The show’s unique ability to switch between darkly comedic moments and intense, dramatic scenes keeps viewers on their toes, ensuring that each episode is unpredictable and engaging. The supporting cast, including Terry O’Quinn, Michael Chernus, and Kurtwood Smith, adds depth and richness to the story, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Prime Video’s Fallout is a post-apocalyptic drama series that brilliantly expands upon Tim Cain’s beloved video game franchise. Created by Graham Wagner and Geneva Robertson-Dworet, the show is set in a distant, nuclear-ravaged future, more than 200 years after the apocalypse. It follows the gripping journey of a young woman born in an underground vault, who ventures beyond her secure home to find her kidnapped father. The first three episodes are masterfully directed by Jonathan Nolan, brother of Christopher Nolan, who also serves as the executive producer.

The series boasts a stellar cast including Ella Purnell, Aaron Moten, and Walton Goggins, among others. Fallout premiered on April 10, 2024, to widespread critical acclaim, praised for its impressive visual effects and meticulous production design. This series stands out as one of the best video game adaptations to date.

Unlike adaptations such as The Last of Us or Halo, Fallout goes beyond merely recreating its source material. It expands the universe by delving into an original narrative, striking a delicate balance between honoring the game and creating an engaging storyline that is accessible to newcomers.

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Based on Michael Connelly’s acclaimed Harry Bosch novels, Bosch is a compelling police procedural series headlined by Titus Welliver as the titular LAPD detective. Developed by Eric Overmyer, known for his work on Law & Order, the series also stars Jamie Hector, Lance Reddick, and Annie Wersching. Spanning seven riveting seasons, Bosch has not only captivated audiences with its gritty storytelling but also spawned successful spinoffs, including Bosch: Legacy, which seamlessly continues the original narrative.

Bosch begins as a collection of pulpy detective stories, but it evolves into a more sophisticated and gripping series with each season. The show transitions from a somewhat uneven first season to a near-flawless seventh season, reflecting its increasing complexity and depth. Drawing on the rich legacy of 2000s cop dramas and the moody atmosphere of 70s film noir, Bosch offers a modern yet timeless exploration of crime and justice.

Set hundreds of years in the future, The Expanse presents a universe where humans have colonized the solar system, leading to escalating tensions between Earth and the independent military power of Mars. As these two celestial bodies edge closer to war, political friction reaches a boiling point. Amidst this backdrop, cynical detective Joe Miller (Thomas Jane) delves into the mysterious disappearance of a young woman with crucial connections. His investigation, aided by a diverse group of allies, propels him on a race through space, uncovering what could be one of humanity’s biggest conspiracies.

The Expanse is an epic science fiction series based on the novels by James S.A. Corey, the joint pen name of collaborators Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck. Both Abraham and Franck contribute as writers and producers on the show, ensuring a faithful adaptation of their richly detailed universe. Esteemed astrophysicist and UC Berkeley professor Alex Filippenko has praised The Expanse as one of the most scientifically accurate sci-fi series of all time, calling it “extreme science-fiction.”

Created and written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Fleabag originated from her one-woman show first performed in 2013 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. In the series, Waller-Bridge reprises her role as the titular character, a sharp-witted and emotionally turbulent young woman navigating the complexities of life and love in London. With a fearless approach to honesty, the protagonist oscillates between being unlikeable and deeply relatable, creating a series of unforgettable “Fleabag moments.”

Despite its brief run of only two seasons, Fleabag achieved massive critical acclaim, cementing its status as one of the best shows of the decade and propelling Waller-Bridge into stardom. One of the show’s distinctive features is its innovative use of breaking the fourth wall, where Fleabag directly addresses the audience. This narrative technique sets the series apart from other comedies, much like how Deadpool distinguishes itself from other superhero films.

Set in the late 1950s, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel centers around Miriam “Midge” Maisel (Rachel Brosnahan), a spirited homemaker who unexpectedly discovers her talent for stand-up comedy. As Midge embraces her newfound passion, she embarks on a transformative journey from her comfortable family life to the vibrant and challenging comedy stages of New York City.

Created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel stands out as one of the finest comedy series of the streaming era, offering a captivating blend of humor, drama, and period charm. The show’s brilliant writing, witty dialogue, and richly detailed setting immerse viewers in the world of 1950s New York.

Based on the acclaimed comic book series by Robert Kirkman, Invincible follows the journey of 17-year-old Mark Grayson, the son of the renowned superhero Omni-Man. As Mark begins to develop his own powers, he looks to his father for guidance. However, he soon discovers that Omni-Man may not be the heroic figure he once believed.

Invincible has quickly become one of the standout animated series of recent years, offering a fresh and compelling entry into the superhero genre. Unlike many shows that glorify the power fantasy, Invincible takes a more introspective approach. It delves into the ethical and moral implications of possessing such immense power, raising questions about the potential for abuse and the true nature of heroism.

Invincible doesn’t shy away from graphic content, using its violence and mature themes to enhance the storytelling rather than for mere shock value. This approach has resonated with audiences and critics alike, solidifying the show as a critical success. It’s a series that challenges viewers to think beyond the typical superhero narrative, exploring the darker sides of power and responsibility.

Developed by Eric Kripke, the mastermind behind “Supernatural,” The Boys is a satirical superhero drama that has taken the world by storm. Based on the comic book series by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, the show delves into a universe where corporate-sponsored superheroes abuse their powers unchecked. In response, a band of vigilantes rises to deliver their brand of violent justice to these corrupt superhumans.

The series features an impressive ensemble cast, including Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr, and Erin Moriarty. With four seasons already completed and a fifth on the horizon, The Boys stands as one of Prime Video’s crowning achievements. Both critics and fans have lauded the show for its hyper-violent, darkly comedic storytelling, which has led to the creation of a shared universe. This expanded universe includes the spin-off web series Seven on 7, the animated anthology Diabolical, and the live-action series Gen V, which premiered in 2023.

The Boys has garnered numerous accolades, including eight Emmy nominations, cementing its status as a critical and commercial success. While the show is notorious for its gratuitous violence, it also tackles weighty themes through its complex, multifaceted characters. This depth elevates The Boys from mere superhero fare to compelling drama, making it a standout in the genre.

With its unique blend of satire, action, and character-driven narrative, The Boys continues to captivate audiences, offering a fresh and unflinching look at the dark side of heroism. Whether you’re drawn in by the explosive action or the intricate character arcs, The Boys promises a viewing experience unlike any other in the superhero genre.

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