Prime Video's Holiday Lineup Features "Cosmópolis" Amid Quiet Release Week
Prime Video's inventory remained largely unchanged during the festive period with the re-release of "Cosmópolis" starring Robert Pattinson as its sole highlight.
Casey Parker
- 2023-12-28
- Updated 06:42 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - During a week when many streaming services ramp up their content offerings, Amazon's Prime Video had a quiet period for the 2023 Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations. The only notable addition to Prime Video's catalog was "Cosmópolis," a film from 2012. In the movie, Robert Pattinson portrays Eric Packer, a financial market executive who goes through a journey of personal unraveling filled with paranoia and fears of assassination.
Adaptation of DeLillo's Novel
"Cosmópolis" is not just another entry into Pattinson’s diverse career, but an adaptation of a novel by Don DeLillo, known for "White Noise." The story offers a deep dive into 21st century existentialism, tackling themes of isolation and disorientation in the capitalist milieu with its impact on interpersonal relationships and work culture. Though reviews were mixed following its initial release, "Cosmópolis" has been noted for its sophisticated and faithful translation of the book’s psychological complexities.
Brazilian Films Tackle Social Issues
Amidst the limited new offerings, there comes a highlight from Brazilian cinema. "Eulália," released in 2023, is a poignant drama that follows the story of a woman who makes a brave escape from a toxic marriage to a drug dealer. Portrayed by Zezé Motta, with Cássio Reis and Babi Xavier completing the cast, the film was made without traditional sponsorship and is particularly significant for addressing the hardships and societal judgments faced by women in Brazil. In a lighter vein, "Guerra Entre Herdeiros," a comedy starring Anna Faris and Toni Collette, presents a battle among family members vying for the favor of their unlikable Aunt Hilda in hopes of securing an inheritance.
Modest Additions and a Classic Repertoire
While "Cosmópolis" stands out, other newer titles added to Prime Video’s roster were not underscored with significance. These releases reflect a strategic choice by Prime Video, perhaps suggesting a focus on quality or targeting a niche audience over the holiday season rather than quantity. The decision presents a stark contrast to competitor platforms, which traditionally capitalize on increased viewer numbers during the holidays.