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Explore a diverse array of cinematic delights on Amazon Prime, that is sure to satisfy every movie lover. Whether your preferences lean toward war films or family comedies, Amazon Prime boasts an extensive collection of teen movies and adult gems designed to cater diverse range of tastes. Amidst these vast options, spy movies on Amazon Prime are a treat.
A timeless fascination, spy movies have etched themselves into the collective imagination of audiences worldwide. This genre weaves together action, suspense, and intellect. While the exploits of debonair fictional spies like James Bond may captivate with their charm and mystique, it’s crucial to recognize their fictitious nature, even as they undergo intensive training to hone their extraordinary skills.
We present an exclusive selection: the best spy movies 2023, carefully curated to grace the screens, including both the best of Hollywood’s spy classics and the best new spy movies, easily available on Amazon Prime UK.
Why These Titles Were Selected As the Top Spy Movie On Amazon Prime:
We carefully selected these titles to ensure you’ll enjoy watching them. We chose them based on IMDb, and have sorted them into easy headings. They are well-liked by both audiences and experts. We believe you’ll find them enjoyable and worth your time.
1. Safe House (2012)
| Directed by: | Daniel Espinosa |
| IMDb rating: | 6.7 |
| Cast: | Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds, Robert Patrick. |
| Platform | Peacock Premium, DIRECTV & Tubi TV. |
“Safe House” (2012) unfolds a gripping tale of espionage and survival as CIA agent Matt Weston, played by Ryan Reynolds, is entrusted with the protection of rogue agent Tobin Frost, portrayed by Denzel Washington, at a safe house in Cape Town.
The routine assignment takes a dangerous turn when their secure location becomes the target of a relentless attack, propelling Weston and Frost into a deadly game of cat and mouse. In a high-stakes struggle for survival, the two must overcome their differences and forge an alliance to navigate the perilous escape, weaving a narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Renowned for its intense action sequences and a plot that keeps viewers guessing, “Safe House” stands out as a top-notch spy thriller. Its inclusion in the selection of the best spy movies on Amazon Prime emphasizes its accessibility to audiences, inviting them to immerse themselves in the suspenseful world of covert operations and betrayals from the comfort of their homes.
2. Argo (2012)
| Directed by: | Ben Affleck |
| IMDb rating: | 7.7 |
| Cast: | Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman. |
“Argo” (2012) is a gripping political thriller directed by Ben Affleck, based on true events that unfolded during the Iranian Revolution. The film follows Tony Mendez, played by Affleck, a CIA operative tasked with a daring mission: to rescue six American diplomats who have sought refuge in the Canadian ambassador’s residence in Tehran.
Mendez devises an audacious plan to extract them by creating a fake sci-fi film titled “Argo” and posing as a Canadian film crew scouting locations. The tension rises as Mendez and the diplomats navigate the complexities of the Iranian political landscape, providing a tense and dramatic narrative.
“Argo” received widespread acclaim for its compelling storytelling, tense atmosphere, and strong performances. It went on to win several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture, and stands as a testament to the ingenuity and courage displayed in real-life covert operations. The film effectively blends elements of thriller and historical drama, offering a riveting portrayal of a high-stakes rescue mission.
3. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
| Directed by: | Christopher McQuarrie |
| IMDb rating: | 7.7 |
| Cast: | Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, and Ving Rhames. |
| Platform: | Paramount Plus, FXNow, watch on DIRECTV. |
“Mission: Impossible – Fallout” (2018) is the sixth installment in the action-packed franchise led by Tom Cruise as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the film takes audiences on a relentless thrill ride filled with jaw-dropping stunts and intricate espionage.
The plot follows Hunt and his team as they race against time to prevent a global catastrophe after a mission goes awry. With spectacular action sequences, including a helicopter chase through the mountains of Kashmir, and a plot filled with twists and turns, “Fallout” is celebrated not only for its intense action but also for its well-crafted narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
The film received widespread critical acclaim for its exhilarating action, Cruise’s daring stunt work, and McQuarrie’s direction. “Fallout” is often regarded as one of the best entries in the “Mission: Impossible” series, delivering a perfect blend of suspense, espionage, and heart-stopping action.
4. Atomic Blonde (2017)
| Directed by: | David Leitch |
| IMDb rating: | 6.7 |
| Cast: | James McAvoy, Charlize Theron, and John Goodman. |
“Atomic Blonde” (2017) is a stylish and gritty action thriller directed by David Leitch, known for his work on “John Wick.” Set against the backdrop of the Cold War in 1989 Berlin, the film stars Charlize Theron as Lorraine Broughton, a skilled MI6 spy.
Tasked with retrieving a list of undercover agents, Broughton navigates a city on the brink of chaos, encountering deadly adversaries and shifting allegiances. The film is renowned for its electrifying action sequences, particularly a long-take stairwell fight, and Theron’s compelling performance as a tough and enigmatic protagonist.
“Atomic Blonde” stands out for its blend of espionage, stylish visuals, and a pulsating soundtrack that captures the essence of the era. The narrative’s twists and turns keep audiences engaged, while the film’s overall aesthetic and Theron’s formidable portrayal contribute to its status as a notable entry in the action spy genre.
5. Skyfall (2012)
| Directed by: | Sam Mendes |
| IMDb rating: | 7.8 |
| Cast: | Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Naomie Harris |
“Skyfall” (2012) is the 23rd installment in the James Bond film series and is directed by Sam Mendes. Starring Daniel Craig as the iconic MI6 agent James Bond, the film delves into Bond’s past and explores the challenges faced by MI6 as it comes under attack.
After a mission goes awry, Bond must confront a mysterious and formidable adversary named Raoul Silva, played by Javier Bardem. The film weaves a compelling narrative that combines action, espionage, and character development, with breathtaking cinematography and a memorable soundtrack. “Skyfall” received critical acclaim for its fresh take on the Bond franchise, blending classic elements with a modern and emotionally resonant storyline.
The film’s success is also attributed to the performances of the cast, particularly Craig’s portrayal of a more vulnerable and introspective Bond. “Skyfall” not only became one of the highest-grossing films in the Bond series but was also praised for revitalizing and redefining the character within the context of a contemporary spy thriller.
6. The Spy Next Door (2010)
| Directed by: | Brian Levant |
| IMDb rating: | 5.4 |
| Cast: | Jackie Chan, Amber Valletta, and Billy Ray Cyrus. |
| Platform | Pluto TV |
“The Spy Next Door” (2010) is a family action-comedy film directed by Brian Levant and stars Jackie Chan as Bob Ho, a mild-mannered pen salesman secretly leading a double life as a CIA superspy. When Bob decides to retire from espionage to settle down with his girlfriend and her three kids, he finds himself entangled in a new mission.
The adventure takes an amusing turn as Bob must juggle babysitting duties with thwarting an international terrorist plot, all while keeping his true identity under wraps. Filled with martial arts action, comedic moments, and family-friendly themes, “The Spy Next Door” offers an entertaining blend of spy escapades and domestic humor suitable for a younger audience.
The film showcases Jackie Chan’s signature charm and physical comedy, making it an enjoyable watch for families looking for a lighthearted action-comedy.
7. TENET (2020)
| Directed by: | Christopher Nolan |
| IMDb rating: | 7.3 |
| Cast: | John David Washington, Robert Pattinson, and Elizabeth Debicki. |
| Platform: | DIRECTV, TNT, TBS, truTV |
“Tenet” (2020) is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller written and directed by Christopher Nolan. Starring John David Washington as the Protagonist, the film revolves around the concept of time inversion—a technology that allows objects and people to move backward in time.
The Protagonist is tasked with preventing World War III, navigating a complex plot involving international espionage, arms dealers, and a mysterious organization known as Tenet. With Nolan’s trademark intricate storytelling and visually stunning set pieces, “Tenet” unfolds as a high-stakes puzzle, challenging audiences to unravel its temporal complexities.
The film’s innovative approach to time and its emphasis on practical effects contribute to its reputation as a visually ambitious and intellectually engaging cinematic experience.
8. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
| Directed by: | Tomas Alfredson |
| IMDb rating: | 7.0 |
| Cast: | Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy. |
| Platform: | Starz, DIRECTV |
“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” (2011) is a gripping espionage drama directed by Tomas Alfredson, based on John le Carré’s classic novel. The film features an ensemble cast led by Gary Oldman as George Smiley, a retired MI6 operative brought back to investigate a Soviet mole within the British intelligence service during the Cold War.
Set against the backdrop of 1970s London, the narrative is rich with intricate plotting, subtle performances, and a dense atmosphere of paranoia. Oldman’s portrayal of Smiley earned critical acclaim, and the film, with its meticulous storytelling and attention to detail, became celebrated for its authenticity and complexity within the spy genre.
Known for its deliberate pacing and intellectual depth, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” received widespread acclaim for its nuanced characters and the meticulous recreation of the Cold War era. The film’s intricate narrative and subdued tension provide a distinctive and compelling take on the world of espionage, making it a standout in the genre.
9. The Bourne Identity (2002)
| Directed by: | Doug Liman |
| IMDb rating: | 7.9 |
| Cast: | Franka Potente, Matt Damon, and Chris Cooper. |
| Platform: | DIRECTV, Syfy. |
“The Bourne Identity” (2002) is a fast-paced action thriller directed by Doug Liman, based on Robert Ludlum’s novel of the same name. The film stars Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, a man who is found floating in the Mediterranean Sea with no memory of his identity but possesses exceptional combat skills.
As he pieces together his past, Bourne discovers he is a highly trained operative targeted by a shadowy organization. The film takes audiences on a high-stakes journey across Europe, combining intense action sequences with a compelling espionage plot.
Damon’s performance as the skilled and enigmatic Bourne, along with the film’s kinetic pacing and suspenseful storytelling, contributed to its success and established it as a cornerstone in the action spy genre.
“The Bourne Identity” received critical acclaim for reinventing the spy thriller, focusing on character-driven storytelling and realistic action sequences. The film’s success spawned a franchise and influenced the approach to action and espionage films in the 21st century.
With its combination of adrenaline-pumping sequences and a mysterious, amnesiac protagonist, “The Bourne Identity” remains a standout entry in the genre. The action sequences in Bourne movie are superbly orchestrated and produced, and they rank among the most memorable in modern cinematic history.
10. No Time To Die (2021)
| Directed by: | Cary Joji Fukunaga |
| IMDb rating: | 7.3 |
| Cast: | Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas, and Rami Malek. |
| Platform: | fuboTV, MGM Plus |
This film has been eagerly awaited by fans of the James Bond franchise as the newest installment in the series. The film does not disappoint, with gorgeous cinematography, excellent acting, and an intriguing plot. Daniel Craig delivers a nuanced portrayal of James Bond in his farewell outing, highlighting both the character’s flaws and his strengths.
“No Time to Die” is the 25th installment in the James Bond film series and marks Daniel Craig’s fifth and final appearance as the iconic MI6 agent, James Bond. Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, the film continues the storyline from the previous Bond film, “Spectre” (2015). In “No Time to Die,” Bond has retired from active service and is living a quiet life in Jamaica.
However, his peaceful existence is disrupted when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA seeks his help, leading Bond on a mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist. The film features a star-studded cast, including Rami Malek as the antagonist Safin and Léa Seydoux reprising her role as Dr. Madeleine Swann.
The film also has a new villain, Rami Malek, who is both terrifying and captivating. It is one of the latest in the realm of new spy movies.
11. A Most Wanted Man (2014)
| Directed by: | Anton Corbijn |
| IMDb rating: | 6.7 |
| Cast: | Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rachel McAdams, Daniel Brühl. |
| Platfrom: | VUDU Free, Tubi TV, Redbox, Pluto TV |
“A Most Wanted Man” (2014) is a compelling espionage thriller directed by Anton Corbijn, starring the late Philip Seymour Hoffman as Günther Bachmann, a German intelligence officer.
The film navigates the complexities of the intelligence world in Hamburg as Bachmann and his team grapple with the arrival of Issa Karpov, an immigrant with potential ties to terrorism and a substantial inheritance. Known for its slow-paced tension, ethical dilemmas, and Hoffman’s outstanding performance, the film offers a realistic and morally nuanced portrayal of counter-terrorism efforts in a post-9/11 landscape.
12. The Courier (2020)
| Directed by: | Dominic Cooke |
| IMDb rating: | 7.2 |
| Cast: | Benedict Cumberbatch, Merab Ninidze, and Rachel Brosnahan |
“The Courier” (2020) is a historical drama directed by Dominic Cooke, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Greville Wynne and Merab Ninidze as Oleg Penkovsky. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the film tells the true story of Wynne, a British businessman, who becomes an unlikely intermediary between the CIA and the Soviet military intelligence GRU officer, Penkovsky.
The two men work together to share critical information that helps defuse the Cuban Missile Crisis. As tensions rise, Wynne finds himself entangled in a dangerous game of espionage, risking his life to prevent a nuclear catastrophe.
Cumberbatch delivers a compelling performance as Wynne, and the film is praised for its historical accuracy, tense atmosphere, and the portrayal of the real-life events that had significant geopolitical implications. “The Courier” effectively captures the human drama and the high-stakes nature of Cold War espionage, making it a notable addition to the genre.
13. Official Secrets (2019)
| Directed by: | Gavin Hood |
| IMDb rating: | 7.3 |
| Cast: | Keira Knightley, Matt Smith, and Matthew Goode. |
| Plaform: | Hulu, AMC+, DIRECTV, Tubi TV |
“Official Secrets” (2019) is a political thriller directed by Gavin Hood, based on the true story of British whistleblower Katharine Gun. Keira Knightley stars as Gun, a British intelligence specialist who, in 2003, leaked a memo revealing a covert operation to manipulate United Nations members into supporting the Iraq War.
The film explores the personal and professional consequences Gun faced after her courageous act of defiance, detailing the legal battles and ethical dilemmas surrounding her decision to expose the truth. With a strong performance by Knightley and a thought-provoking narrative, “Official Secrets” serves as a gripping account of one woman’s attempt to bring transparency to a controversial political decision with far-reaching consequences.
The film delves into the complexities of government secrecy, journalistic integrity, and the impact of one individual’s choice to challenge authority. “Official Secrets” sheds light on the ethical challenges faced by those who choose to speak out against powerful institutions, making it a compelling and relevant exploration of the intersection between politics and personal conscience.
14. Notorious (1946)
| Directed by: | Alfred Hitchcock |
| IMDb rating: | 7.9 |
| Cast: | Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, Claude Rains |
| Plaform: | Hulu, Amazon Prime |
Notorious is a spellbinding mix of romance, suspense, and espionage. Alicia Huberman, played by Ingrid Bergman, is the daughter of a convicted Nazi spy. She is approached by a government agent, T.R. Devlin, played by Cary Grant, to infiltrate a group of her father’s Nazi friends in Brazil.
As Alicia and Devlin embark on their mission, they find themselves entangled in a complex web of love, duty, and betrayal. With its compelling characters and a plotline brimming with tension, Alfred Hitchcock crafts a cinematic experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
15. The Third Man (1949)
| Directed by: | Carol Reed |
| IMDb rating: | 8.1 |
| Cast: | Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, Orson Welles, Trevor Howard |
| Plaform: | Amazon Prime Video, Vudu |
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of post-WWII Vienna, The Third Man weaves an intriguing tale of mystery and suspense. When American writer, Holly Martins, arrives in Vienna, he’s shocked to discover that his friend, Harry Lime, has died under mysterious circumstances.
As he delves deeper into what happened, Martins is drawn into a web of intrigue, betrayal, and moral ambiguity, against a cityscape divided by international powers. Featuring the haunting zither score by Anton Karas, the film captures the ambiance of a city under occupation, making it a cinematic masterpiece in the film-noir genre.
Wrap Up
Watch the best spy movies on Amazon Prime, a genre renowned for its unparalleled thrills and excitement. As we step into 2023, the stage is set with Amazon Prime curating a selection of the best spy movies Hollywood has to offer. Enjoy the enigmatic allure of secret missions, meticulously crafted plans unfolding in silence, and action with spy movies 2023.
The variety of best new spy movies promises to redefine the genre in 2023. Witness the evolution unfold before your eyes in these masterpieces. The best spy movies are poised to grace your screens. Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity and stream Amazon Prime for a thrilling journey through the best spy movies in Hollywood.
