As the leaves turn and the nights draw in, October ushers in a compelling slate of new releases across Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, with a particular focus on the gritty realism of war and the intricate world of gangster narratives. For fans seeking trending movies and TV shows that delve into conflict, crime, and historical drama, this month offers a rich selection of new arrivals.
On the Front Lines: Intense War Dramas Arrive
This October, viewers can immerse themselves in the harrowing realities of conflict with several critically acclaimed war films now available for streaming. Netflix is bringing Hacksaw Ridge to its platform on October 1st. Directed by Mel Gibson, this powerful film stars Andrew Garfield as Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector and WWII medic who single-handedly saved dozens of lives during the brutal Battle of Okinawa without ever firing a shot. The movie, celebrated for its visceral depiction of battle and its inspirational true story, earned multiple Academy Award nominations and two wins, cementing its status as a modern war cinema classic.
Amazon Prime Video subscribers also have access to Hyena Road, a gripping war film set against the backdrop of the War in Afghanistan. The movie follows an intelligence officer who partners with a sniper to track down a formidable Afghan freedom fighter known only as ‘The Ghost.’ Based on a true story, it offers a stark look at the complexities and dangers of modern warfare. Additionally, Amazon Prime is featuring Words of War, a biographical drama starring Maxine Peake as Anna Politkovskaya, the renowned Russian journalist and human rights activist. Politkovskaya fearlessly reported on the conflict in Chechnya and exposed corruption, ultimately paying the ultimate price. The film highlights her courageous fight for truth in the face of immense danger and intimidation, making it a timely and urgent watch.
Confronting Crime: Gangster Flicks and True Crime Thrills
October’s new movie releases also lean heavily into the gangster genre and true crime narratives. Making a significant splash on Amazon Prime Video on October 1st is Play Dirty, an action-packed thriller directed by Shane Black. Starring Mark Wahlberg as the titular thief Parker and LaKeith Stanfield as his associate Grofield, the film is based on Donald E. Westlake’s Parker novel series. The story follows Parker and his crew as they embark on a high-stakes heist that pits them against the New York mob, a South American dictator, and formidable adversaries. Praised for its fast-paced action and clever plotting, the movie has already garnered positive audience reviews for its exciting start-to-finish pacing.
Also arriving on Amazon Prime is Gangster Squad, a stylish crime drama set in 1940s and 50s Los Angeles. The film, which stars Sean Penn as notorious mob boss Mickey Cohen, chronicles the efforts of a covert LAPD unit tasked with dismantling Cohen’s criminal empire. With a cast also featuring Josh Brolin and Ryan Gosling, the movie offers a visually dynamic portrayal of the era’s intense crime battles.
Netflix is diving into the darker side of true crime with Monster: The Ed Gein Story, the third installment in Ryan Murphy’s acclaimed anthology series. Premiering on October 3rd, the series stars Charlie Hunnam as Ed Gein, the infamous murderer and grave robber whose gruesome crimes served as inspiration for iconic horror villains like Norman Bates and Leatherface. The eight-episode series promises an unflinching exploration of Gein’s life and his profound impact on popular culture.
Historical Drama with a Gritty Undercut
While not strictly a gangster or war film, Netflix’s House of Guinness, which premiered on September 25th, offers a compelling historical drama with a gritty edge that may appeal to fans of the genre. Created by Steven Knight (known for Peaky Blinders), the series delves into the tumultuous lives and rivalries of the Guinness family in 19th-century Ireland and New York. It explores themes of power, ambition, and familial conflict, providing a visually rich narrative that is anything but a staid period piece.
A Farewell to Iconic Mob Films
For fans of the gangster genre, October also marks a moment of farewell. Both The Godfather and The Godfather II, cinematic masterpieces that defined the mob film, are set to leave Amazon Prime Video during the month. This makes October the prime time for a rewatch of these seminal works before they depart the platform.
This October’s releases promise a diverse and engaging viewing experience, blending the high stakes of war with the allure of crime and the drama of history. These new trending movies and TV shows offer compelling narratives and stellar performances, making it a prime month for dedicated streaming.
