Tilda Swinton and Idris Elba dazzle in Three Thousand Years of Longing — now streaming on Prime Video
If you’re looking for a movie that’s completely different from the usual fast-paced action or over-the-top fantasy, Three Thousand Years of Longing might just be your next favorite watch. It’s a slower, deeper kind of film, the kind that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll.
This 2022 fantasy drama flew a bit under the radar. It didn’t explode at the box office, and it wasn’t talked about the way superhero movies or franchises are. But if you’re a fan of smart storytelling, beautiful visuals, and something with real heart, this film is worth your time.
Right now, it’s available to stream, so if you missed it in theaters, now’s a great time to catch up.
Stream Three Thousand Years of Longing on prime Video.
What’s Three Thousand Years of Longing About?
The story follows Dr. Alithea Binnie (played by Tilda Swinton), a scholar who values logic, facts, and reason. She’s in Istanbul for a conference when her world changes completely. She comes across an ancient bottle, and when she opens it, out comes a Djinn (played by Idris Elba), who offers her three wishes in exchange for his freedom.
Sounds familiar, right? But this movie isn’t your typical genie story.
At first, Alithea is skeptical. She’s read all the old stories where wishes go terribly wrong, and she doesn’t want to make the same mistake. But as the Djinn begins to share his past, tales of love, loss, and longing, something unexpected happens. She starts to listen. And in the end, she makes a wish that neither of them saw coming.
A Movie That Feels Like a Modern Fairytale
Three Thousand Years of Longing is directed by George Miller (yes, the same director behind Mad Max: Fury Road, believe it or not), but this movie is nothing like that. Instead of chaos and explosions, it gives you poetry, imagination, and emotion.
The film jumps between different stories and time periods, all connected by the Djinn’s past. It’s rich with myth, culture, and fantasy, and every scene is visually stunning. It’s one of those movies that feels like a dream.
But what really stands out is the connection between the two main characters. Tilda Swinton plays Alithea with calm intelligence, while Idris Elba brings a deep warmth to the Djinn. Together, their conversations go beyond magic and wishes. They talk about what it means to be human, to be lonely, and to want something more out of life.
A Fantasy That Makes You Think
This isn’t a typical fantasy film with big battles or predictable plots. Instead, Three Thousand Years of Longing asks quiet but powerful questions: What would you wish for, if you had the chance? What do you truly want? And can stories connect us, even if we come from completely different worlds?
It’s a slow-paced film, yes, but it’s meant to be that way. It takes its time, pulling you into a thoughtful, emotional world that’s both magical and real.
Some critics didn’t connect with the film, and that’s okay. Not every movie is for everyone. But if you enjoy stories that explore love, memory, and the power of storytelling itself, this one is worth watching.
Watch Three Thousand Years of Longing Now
Three Thousand Years of Longing is streaming now on Prime Video. It’s a beautiful, moving fantasy that doesn’t follow the usual rules, and that’s exactly what makes it special.
If you’re tired of the same old plots, give this one a shot. It’s heartfelt, rich in storytelling, and led by two incredible actors.
Check if it’s available to stream in your region, and if it is, make some time for a quiet evening with this modern fairytale. You might be surprised by how much it moves you.
If you’re still browsing, check out what’s new on Prime Video in April 2025 or explore our picks for the best movies to stream right now.