Best series on Amazon Prime Video in October 2024

October's highlights include the return of Peter Capaldi drama The Devil's Hour, new international editions of The Office and Citadel, as well as a new take on Jules Verne's hero Captain Nemo

The Legend of Vox Machina

Animation | Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Summary:Created by the team behind the YouTube Dungeons and Dragons sensation Critical Role, Vox Machina are a group of rowdy, ragtag, misfits turned mercenaries for hire. They’re more interested in easy money and cheap ale than actually protecting the realm. But when the world of Exandria is threatened by evil, this boisterous crew realises that they are the only ones capable of restoring justice.

Why to watch: The most successful film or TV project in Kickstarter history in 2019, The Legend of Vox Machina has a legion of devoted fans. A talented cast of voice actors - and friends - are the reason for its success. They create an authenticity about the characters and story that is impossible to replicate. Now in season three on Prime Video, there are still plenty more stories to tell - after all, the YouTube campaign ran for nearly 500 hours!

Available October 3

Citadel: Diana

Drama

Summary:An Italy-set spin-off of the big-budget drama about an organisation of international spies known as the Citadel. Diana is a double agent who infiltrated Citadel’s rivals Manticore, but became trapped behind enemy lines. Now, she has a chance to leave the agency forever, if she can decide whether to trust a surprising ally: the heir of Manticore Italy, Edo Zani.

Why to watch: Like its predecessor, Citadel: Diana hopes to impress by combining fast-based action drama with the excellent acting performances of its star - in this case Across the River and into the Trees star Matilda De Angelis. The one also has the benefit of being set in the beautiful snow-covered Alps, which make for a cinematic setting.

Available on October 10

The Devil's Hour

Mystery | Crime | Drama

Summary:Oscar-winner Peter Capaldi and Jessica Raine in this Emmy-nominated thriller. Social worker Lucy (Raine) wakes every night at exactly 3:33am, often after experiencing terrifying visions. With her family life fraught, Lucy finds herself drawn into the hunt for a serial killer, and to a mysterious criminal (Capaldi) who seems to know the future.

Why to watch: This riveting supernatural thriller boasts an outstanding performance by Jessica Raine, who portrays all the nuances of grief, regret and longing. Employing memories and flashbacks in ways that leave viewers as disoriented as the characters, this is a spine-tingling mix of horror and suspenseful murder mystery. Series two, described as “simultaneously a sequel and a prequel”, seems set for another disconcerting thriller.

Available October 18

The Office

Comedy

Summary:A new Australian adaptation of the hit British noughties comedy, Hannah Howard is the managing director of packaging company Flinley Craddick. When she gets news from the Head Office that her branch will be shut down and everyone will go remote, she goes into survival mode, making promises she can't keep in order to keep her "work family" together.

Why to watch: Twenty years have passed since the original series, and this new version doesn't shy away from it - keeping the comedy smart without being outdated. One such welcome change of the times is Hannah Howard, the first female lead character in The Office's 13 international adaptations, who is easily as inept as any male boss.

Available on October 18

Nautilus

Drama | Action & Adventure | Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Summary:The origin story of the iconic Captain Nemo: an Indian Prince robbed of his birthright and family, a prisoner of the East India Mercantile Company and a man bent on revenge against the forces that have taken everything from him.

Why to watch: A new imagining of French writer Jules Verne's 1870 novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Nautilus sees Spooks star Shazad Latif take on the role of Captain Nemo, a part that has previously been played by legendary actors including Michael Caine and Patrick Stewart. Georgia Flood (Apples Never Fall) and Thierry Frémont (Das Boot) also star in the drama, which hopes to replicate the impressive storytelling and world-building that made Verne's novel an instant classic.

Available on October 25

Like a Dragon: Yakuza

Action & Adventure | Crime | Drama

Summary:Follow the life, childhood friends, and repercussions of the decisions of Kazuma Kiryu, a fearsome and peerless Yakuza warrior with a strong sense of justice, duty, and humanity.

Why to watch: Based on the award-winning Like a Dragon: Yakuza video game by Sega, this new series brings together critically acclaimed director Masaharu Take and Kamen Rider actor Ryo Takeuchi in the lead role. Showcasing Tokyo and its criminal underbelly, the new television series hopes to replicate the hit formula of the Yakuza (meaning 'gangster' in Japanese) franchise, which is known for its gripping storytelling, likeable characters and inability to take itself too seriously.

Available on October 25

The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

Action & Adventure | Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama

Summary:Set in Tolkien’s beloved fantasy world, we follow an ensemble cast of characters as they confront the re-emergence of evil to Middle-earth. From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains, to the majestic forests of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the furthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone.

Why to watch: The most-watched (and certainly most expensive with a reported seasonal budget of $100–150 million) Prime Video original ever, series two picks up after the forging of three rings of power. The Middle Earth setting is as beautiful as it's ever been, brought to life with epic cinematography and a vibrant cast of characters (a few of which are old favourites from the films). Series two adds even more star power to the mix: Rory Kinnear will play fan-fave Tom Bombadil, with Ciarán Hinds in a currently unknown recurring role.

Available now

A Very Royal Scandal

Drama

Summary:Michael Sheen stars as Prince Andrew and Ruth Wilson as Emily Maitlis in this depiction of the latter’s landmark interview with the royal in 2019. This drama follows Maitlis’ professional and personal journey as a Newsnight journalist, leading up to the moment she scored the biggest scoop of her career - and the Duke of York was forced to withdraw from his public roles. Joanna Scanlan, Alex Jennings and Éanna Hardwicke also star.

Why to watch: Maitlis’ interview with Prince Andrew marked a turning point in history, especially for public perceptions of the Royal Family. Previously depicted in Netflix's Scoop, A Very Royal Scandal goes a step further by examining the personal lives of both the Duke and Maitlis in greater depth than ever before. Michael Sheen and Ruth Wilson shine, refreshing an already very well-established story with their thoughtful performances.

Available now

The Grand Tour

Documentary | Comedy | Talk

Summary:Hit motoring series hosted by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May. First launched in 2016 with car reviews, studio segments and celebrity guests, the series was revamped in its fourth season to consist entirely of feature-length road trips featuring the trio. The fifth and final series began airing in September 2022, and has so far visited Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and Western Africa.

Why to watch: A chance to watch the complete collection of Clarkson, Hammond and May’s well-publicised Amazon motoring efforts, after the trio finally hung up their keys in 2024.These three absolutely love cars, but the real draw to the Grand Tour is the chemistry between them - and there’s still plenty of mileage on those epic pranks.

Available now

Batman: Caped Crusader

Animation | Crime | Action & Adventure

Summary:J.J. Abrams reimagines DC Comics’ Batman and his origin story for a new animated series. Forged in the fire of tragedy, wealthy socialite Bruce Wayne becomes something both more and less than human—the Batman. His one-man crusade for justice attracts unexpected allies within the police department and City Hall, but his heroic actions spawn deadly, unforeseen ramifications.

Why to watch: This new envisioning of the superhero focuses on the detective noir aspects of the character and its setting. This is Batman’s origin story told through a darker lens than its predecessors. It’s also got a kick-ass guest cast, with Christina Ricci as Catwoman, Jason Watkins as Alfred Pennyworth and Minnie Driver as the Penguin.

Available now

The Wheel of Time

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama

Summary:Based on Robert Jordan's epic high fantasy books, which follow Moiraine, a member of the shadowy and influential all-female organisation called the “Aes Sedai”. She embarks on a dangerous, world-spanning journey with five young men and women. Moiraine believes one of them might be the reincarnation of an incredibly powerful individual, whom prophecies say will either save humanity or destroy it.

Why to watch: The original series comprises 14 volumes and more than 4.4 million words, but the television series does a great job of making the drama accessible for first timers as well as seasoned fans. Where it stands out from other fantasy shows are with its rich world-building, carefully-plotted storylines and solid acting (Rosalind Pike, as Moraine, does a lot to humanise the stoic witch). Also unlike others in the genre, The Wheel of Time isn't afraid to put female characters front and centre - a refreshing change that pays dividends with powerful acting and storytelling.

Available now

The Boys

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Action & Adventure

Summary:A group of vigilantes known informally as “The Boys” set out to take down corrupt superheroes with no more than blue-collar grit and a willingness to fight dirty.

Why to watch: This award-winning satirical superhero series is unlike any other superhero drama, and possibly anything else currently on TV. It is gruesome, obscene, deeply political and often rather funny on top of all this.

Available now

Fallout

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Action & Adventure | Drama

Summary:Ella Purnell, Aaron Moten and Walton Goggins star in this post apocalyptic drama, which is based on the hit video game franchise. Set 200 years after nuclear war destroyed Earth, human survivors emerge from their luxury bunkers to discover the radiated hellscape their ancestors left behind.

Why to watch: This 16 time Emmy-nominated series boasts entertaining performances from its leads Purnell, Moten and Goggins. It paints a vivid portrait of a unique universe, complete with radiated monsters, military-esque groups and - worst of all - 'normal' humans who seek to revive the world as it was.

Available now

Good Omens

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Comedy | Drama

Summary:Aziraphale, an angel, and Crowley, a demon, join forces to find the Antichrist and stop Armageddon.

Why to watch: Michael Sheen is a delight and David Tennant a guilty pleasure in this brilliant fantasy drama, which merges masterful plotting, thought-provoking religious symbolism, superstar performances from its leads and the quirky humour that is Neil Gaiman's signature look. The first series follows the events of the novel by Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, while the second and upcoming third series feature brand new stories with focus on Aziraphale and Crowley's eternal relationship.

Available now

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

Comedy | Drama

Summary:It’s 1958 Manhattan and Miriam “Midge” Maisel has everything she’s ever wanted - the perfect husband, kids, and Upper West Side apartment. But when her life suddenly takes a turn and Midge must start over, she discovers a previously unknown talent - one that will take her all the way from the comedy clubs of Greenwich Village to a spot on Johnny Carson’s couch.

Why to watch: There's something incredibly heartwarming about this critically-acclaimed drama, which transforms a seemingly ordinary housewife into a comedy legend. The multi-award-winning Rachel Brosnahan is pitch perfect as Midge, offering vulnerability and a relatability that transcends 1960s New York. In a story that champions female success, Alex Borstein, who won consecutive Emmys for the role, plays Midge's nonsense manager Susie.

Available now

Fleabag

Comedy | Drama

Summary:Based on Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s hit Edinburgh Fringe one-woman show, Fleabag looks into the mind of a dry-witted, sexual, angry, porn-watching, grief-riddled woman, trying to make sense of the world. As she hurls herself headlong at modern living, Fleabag is thrown roughly up against the walls of contemporary London, with all its frenetic energy, late nights, and bright lights.

Why to watch: A hit globally, the series and its creator have won Baftas, Emmys and Golden Globes. Widely considered among the best series of all time, this black comedy is a combination of witty writing, powerful acting performances and emotional manipulation. Best of all, Waller-Bridge's Fleabag regularly breaks the fourth wall, making viewers feel like we are all in on her exploits together.

Available now

Reacher

Action & Adventure | Crime | Drama

Summary:Veteran military police investigator Jack Reacher re-enters civilian life as a drifter, carrying no phone and the barest of essentials as he travels the country and explores the nation he once served.

Why to watch: Previously portrayed by Tom Cruise in the film franchise, Alan Ritchson is physically closer to the Jack Reacher portrayed in Lee Childs' award-winning books. Like the book Reacher, Ritchson's Reacher is a hulking giant of a man who is not particularly verbose but can absolutely wreck an idiot. Somewhat miraculously, Ritchson also manages to imbue the muscly hero with humanity. It's not the only way in which this Prime Video series is closer to the source material, with its action beats, suspenseful mystery, and fun dynamic with Willa Fitzgerald's Roscoe.

Available now

Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan

Action & Adventure | Drama | War & Politics

Summary:When CIA analyst Jack Ryan stumbles upon a suspicious series of bank transfers his search for answers pulls him from the safety of his desk job. He's catapulted into a deadly game of cat and mouse throughout Europe and the Middle East, with a rising terrorist figurehead preparing for a massive attack against the US and her allies.

Why to watch: Tom Clancy's novels face no shortage of film adaptations, and Mr. Ryan has been played by many-a-big-name actor (Alec Baldwin, Harrison Ford, Ben Affleck, Chris Pine...), so what makes the television series different? For starters, John Krasinski offers an understated, nuanced take on the character of Ryan. It's more relatable than previous versions, which is impressive in a series as far removed from reality as this. It doesn't reinvent the wheel - it doesn't need to, the Jack Ryan series is a hit for a reason - but it does execute the fast-paced and explosive drama in a way that is entertaining for all.

Available now

The Man in the High Castle

Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama

Summary:Based on Philip K. Dick's award-winning novel, The Man in the High Castle explores what it would be like if the Allied Powers had lost WWII, and Japan and Germany ruled the United States.

Why to watch: A fascinating premise brought to life with unsettling realism. Not only is it visually stunning, something about the alternative history presented in The Man in the High Castle feels lived in. While the storytelling itself is slow at times, it at least gives one a break from freaking out about just how real it all seems - which is an incredible feat of television.

Available now

The Expanse

Drama | Mystery | Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Summary:Set two hundred years in the future, the case of a missing young woman brings a hardened detective and a rogue ship's captain together in a race across the solar system to expose the greatest conspiracy in human history.

Why to watch: One of the best science-fiction dramas of recent years, sky high production values and well crafted storylines make The Expanse worthy of anyone's time. Despite being set centuries into humanity's future, it expertly invokes modern political issues in its storytelling. As well as scooping major plaudits from television critics, The Expanse also attracted positive attention from scientists - who commended the show's attention to technical details and how it accurately conveyed concepts such as uncontrolled decompression and spacecraft propulsion.

Available now

Bosch

Mystery | Drama | Crime

Summary:Based on Michael Connelly's best-selling novels, these are the stories of relentless LAPD homicide Detective Harry Bosch who pursues justice at all costs. But behind his tireless momentum is a man who is haunted by his past and struggles to remain loyal to his personal code: “Everybody counts or nobody counts.”

Why to watch: This gritty police drama paints a vivid portrait of Michael Connelly's titular LAPD detective Harry Bosch and its distinctly unglamorous Los Angeles setting. Titus Welliver has a lot on his plate with Bosch, with whom there is always something bubbling under the surface. Yet he does a remarkable job bringing the character to life, bringing subtle humour to Bosch's signature confrontational style and black-and-white thinking.

Available now

The Underground Railroad

Drama | Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Summary:After making a desperate bid for freedom in the antebellum South and escaping her Georgia plantation for the rumoured Underground Railroad, Cora discovers this name is no metaphor. An actual railroad full of engineers and conductors, and a secret network of tracks and tunnels beneath the Southern soil await.

Why to watch: Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by Colson Whitehead and directed by the Oscar-winning filmmaker Barry Jenkins, The Underground Railroad has a lot to live up to - and boy does it deliver. This ten hour epic is immersive, thought-provoking and horrifying. It does nothing to sugarcoat the truth of America's past, but equally focuses on its characters as powerful survivors rather than victims. A moving piece of television that is not for the faint of heart.

Available now

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

Action & Adventure | Comedy | Drama

Summary:Meet the Smiths: two lonely strangers, John and Jane, who have given up their lives and identities to be thrown together as partners – both in espionage and in marriage.

Why to watch: Inspired by the hit 2004 film where Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt who - unbeknownst to each other - were both secret agents, this version of Mr. and Mrs. Smith tries a different tact - one that is arguably more successful. Instead of being a real married couple, Donald Glover and Maya Erskine are simply spies posing as one. Their professional commitments are at odds with the fact these two have no familiarity with each other at all - which makes for delightful comedy. And despite their characters' lack of real romantic entanglement, Glover and Erskine share a palpable chemistry that absolutely jumps off-screen.

Available now

Outer Range

Drama | Mystery | Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Summary:A rancher fighting for his land and family stumbles upon an unfathomable mystery at the edge of Wyoming’s wilderness, forcing a confrontation with the Unknown in ways both intimate and cosmic in the untamable American West.

Why to watch: This bold science-fiction drama boasts outstanding performances from its leads Josh Brolin and Imogen Poots, and their efforts keep a series that is wacky and wonderful grounded in reality. A gripping premise keeps viewers hooked, as Outer Range performs extensive world-building while never forgetting to make each twist and turn weirder than the next.

Available now

Clarkson's Farm

Reality | Comedy

Summary:After claiming on multiple occasions to be allergic to manual labour, Jeremy Clarkson embarks on his latest adventure: farming. What could possibly go wrong?

Why to watch: A funny and informative series which showcases the highs and lows of the British farming industry, through the lens of outsider (and new farm owner) Jeremy Clarkson. This is a less brash version of the Clarkson we typically see on his motoring shows, surrounded by family, friends and animals he cares for. Still, while Clarkson is the big name attached to the series, the star of the show is Clarkson’s farm manager Kaleb, who is incredibly knowledgeable about farming but less so about the world outside Chadlington where he lives. The series is also popular with real farmers, and The National Farmers’ Union awarded Clarkson Farming Champion of the Year in 2021.

Available now

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