When it comes to in-flight entertainment, there are two kinds of flyers—the ones who gamble on the random crud on the seat-back screen or the airplane Wi-Fi and those who download their entertainment the night before. Be the second kind. TV shows offer the ultimate flexibility when flying. You can watch a single episode between the drink cart and your nap, or binge a whole season on a long-haul flight—it's your call.

This week on Amazon Prime Video, we’re exploring five critically acclaimed movies that resonate far beyond the screen with their blend of powerful storytelling, standout performances, and superb direction. From survival-driven ingenuity, unflinching intensity, and a deeply human exploration of justice to artistic obsession and chaotic excess, each of these movies captures lightning in a bottle.

Indulging in high-quality miniseries is one of the best ways to enjoy the offerings in Amazon Prime Video’s catalog. They’re the perfect alternative to the platform’s bigger shows, like Fallout, that require a commitment to long, drawn-out watches, and they feel just as cinematic as any big-budget movie. Larger shows can be entertaining, but they aren’t always the best option when you’re in the mood for something quick.

With most of Amazon Prime Video’s July TV show highlights having already dropped, aside from the new season of Batman: Caped Crusader, now is the perfect time to indulge in series that will bring on some summertime thrills. Whether they're psychological, science fiction, or full of action, the streamer has plenty to offer in that vein.