Prime Video’s latest Oscar-winning arrival ‘Nickle Boys’ is raw, powerful, and completely devastating
Amazon Prime Video just added a powerful film that many people may have missed. It’s called Nickel Boys, and it’s now available to stream. If you’re searching for a moving and meaningful movie, this one should be at the top of your list.
Stream Nickel Boys on Prime Video.
What is Nickel Boys About?
Nickel Boys is a dramatic film based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead. The story takes place in Florida during the Jim Crow era, a time of deep racial segregation and injustice.
The movie follows Elwood Curtis, a young Black teen played by Ethan Herisse, who is wrongly accused of a crime. He is sent to Nickel Academy, a harsh reform school for boys. There, he meets Turner (Brandon Wilson), another Black student with a tougher, more skeptical view of the world. The two form a strong friendship as they try to survive the cruelty of the school system.
The cast also includes powerful performances from Daveed Diggs, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Hamish Linklater, Fred Hechinger, Ethan Cole Sharp, and Jimmie Fails.
Why You Should Watch Nickel Boys on Prime Video
Nickel Boys is not just another drama — it’s an emotional journey that sticks with you. The film uses a unique first-person storytelling style that pulls you right into the experience. You feel every moment up close, whether it’s painful, powerful, or unexpectedly tender.
One standout moment is a warm hug between Turner and Elwood’s grandmother, played by Ellis-Taylor. It’s the kind of scene that stays in your heart long after the movie ends.
While the movie includes some documentary-style footage that may feel a little unusual at first, it all serves a purpose. Director RaMell Ross pushes the boundaries to tell this important story in a fresh and unforgettable way. The emotional weight and raw performances make it more than worth your time.
Critics have praised Nickel Boys highly. It has a 91% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and is officially Certified Fresh. Reviews highlight the film’s immersive style and emotional impact. Empire called it “a triumph,” while RogerEbert.com described it as “polished” and “unflinching.”
Nickel Boys isn’t always an easy watch. Some scenes are tough, and the storytelling style is different. But it’s a powerful film that deserves attention. If you’re a Prime Video subscriber, this is a must-see movie that offers both meaning and artistry.
Looking for more great streaming options? Check out our full guide to the best movies on Prime Video.