Prime Video’s Best Kept Secrets: Underrated Shows You Need to Stream

Prime Video, often overshadowed by streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+, boasts a surprisingly deep and diverse catalog of original series. While everyone knows about “The Boys” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” many gems remain hidden beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered. This article delves into some of Prime Video’s best-kept secrets – the underrated shows that deserve a spot on your watchlist. Prepare to expand your streaming horizons and uncover your next binge-worthy obsession.

Comedy That Flies Under the Radar

When it comes to comedy, Prime Video offers more than just the award-winning “Mrs. Maisel.” “Catastrophe,” a British sitcom co-created by and starring Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney, is a darkly funny and brutally honest portrayal of modern relationships. The show follows an American businessman (Delaney) who gets an Irish schoolteacher (Horgan) pregnant after a one-week stand. Their relationship evolves through awkwardness, genuine affection, and a healthy dose of cynicism. Its sharp writing and relatable characters make it a truly exceptional comedy. Another gem in the comedy realm is “Patriot.” This dark comedy, starring Michael Dorman, follows an intelligence officer who must go undercover as an employee at a piping firm to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. The show’s blend of deadpan humor, surreal situations, and surprisingly poignant moments makes it a unique and captivating watch. It’s a spy thriller unlike any other, definitely worth checking out for viewers who appreciate dry and unconventional humor.

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Hidden Gems

For those who crave science fiction and fantasy, Prime Video has some truly compelling offerings that often get overlooked. “Undone,” an animated series created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg (of “BoJack Horseman” fame), is a mind-bending exploration of time and reality. Rosa Salazar voices Alma, a young woman who discovers she has the ability to manipulate time after a car accident. As she tries to uncover the truth about her father’s death, she grapples with her own sanity and the nature of reality itself. The rotoscoping animation style adds to the show’s dreamlike and surreal atmosphere. Beyond animation, “Tales from the Loop” is a beautifully shot and melancholic science fiction anthology series inspired by the artwork of Simon Stålenhag. Set in a small town above the “Loop,” a machine built to unlock and explore the mysteries of the universe, each episode tells a different story about the residents and their encounters with the strange and wondrous phenomena surrounding them. Its slow-burn storytelling and thought-provoking themes make it a captivating and visually stunning experience.

Intriguing Drama You Might Have Missed

If you’re in the mood for drama, Prime Video has several hidden gems that will keep you hooked. “Too Old to Die Young,” directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, is a neo-noir crime drama that pushes the boundaries of the genre. Miles Teller stars as a police officer navigating the dark and violent underbelly of Los Angeles. The show’s stylized visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and deliberate pacing create a hypnotic and unsettling viewing experience. While its unconventional storytelling may not be for everyone, those who appreciate art-house cinema and challenging narratives will find it a rewarding experience. Another compelling drama is “Counterpart,” starring J.K. Simmons. This spy thriller explores a world where a parallel dimension exists, and individuals have counterparts in the other reality. Simmons plays a low-level bureaucrat who discovers his counterpart is a ruthless agent involved in a dangerous conspiracy. The show’s complex plot, intriguing characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a truly captivating watch. Its exploration of identity, morality, and the consequences of our choices sets it apart from other spy dramas.

International Series Worth Your Time

Prime Video’s selection of international series is a treasure trove of hidden gems. “Deutschland 83,” a German Cold War thriller, follows a young East German soldier who is sent to West Germany as an undercover spy. The show’s gripping plot, authentic portrayal of the era, and strong performances make it a truly immersive and captivating experience. It offers a unique perspective on the Cold War from the East German side. Shifting genre completely, “The Bureau” (Le Bureau des Légendes), is a French espionage series. It focuses on the lives of agents of the DGSE (France’s external intelligence agency). It is regarded as one of the most realistic depictions of espionage in popular culture. The series explores the complexities of the job, the personal toll it takes, and the moral compromises that agents often have to make. The show is a captivating exploration of the world of espionage with nuanced characters and intricate plotlines.

Why These Shows Are Underrated and Why You Should Watch Them

Many factors contribute to a show being underrated. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of timing, being released alongside more heavily promoted series. Other times, a show’s unique or unconventional style might not appeal to a mass audience, but it resonates deeply with a smaller, more discerning group. Regardless of the reason, these hidden gems offer something special – a fresh perspective, innovative storytelling, or exceptional performances. By venturing beyond the mainstream and exploring these underrated shows, you’ll not only expand your viewing horizons but also discover some truly remarkable television that you might otherwise have missed. Don’t let these Prime Video secrets stay hidden any longer; dive in and discover your next favorite show!

In conclusion, Prime Video’s catalog extends far beyond its well-known hits. By exploring the depths of its library, you’ll uncover a wealth of underrated shows spanning various genres, from comedy and science fiction to drama and international thrillers. So, grab your remote, settle in, and prepare to discover your next binge-worthy obsession. These hidden gems are waiting to be unearthed!