Streaming has become a massive part of pop culture. Netflix was one of the first in the space, but since then, more and more companies, including Amazon Prime Video, have been clamoring for their piece of the pie. Streaming is not just relegated to airing old shows or even live television, either, as company originals are not just producing, but thriving and even winning major awards. Many streaming originals are considered some of the best shows on television today.
It should be no surprise, then, that Amazon has become one of the bigger streaming platforms through their paid subscription service Prime Video, as well as their free offerings on Freevee. Prime Video is not known for its originals in the way that Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, and others are, but there are some underrated gems in their catalog. April should see the release of many shows that get viewers excited. Although not all release dates are announced yet, let’s take a look at the best of the lineup as it currently stands.
America’s Test Kitchen – The Next Generation
The second instalment of Prime Video’s original reality cooking show, The Next Generation, invites 11 new cooks to battle it out for a shot at winning the competition. Winners earn the right to be a judge in America’s Test Kitchen, a popular public broadcast cooking show, as well as a $100,000 cash prize. Hosted by Jeannie Mai Jenkins, the competition show gives home cooks a chance to show their skills in a variety of challenges, and the half-hour show length makes it easy to binge-watch. America’s Test Kitchen – The Next Generation premiers on April 1st.
Wear Whatever the F You Want
Another reality entry for Prime Video, this new show stars Stacy London and Clinton Kelly, the former hosts of TLC’s hit show “What Not To Wear“. This new venture is meant to be a similar concept to the original. However, instead of the pair coming with a critical tone in their makeovers, they will be encouraging individual expression and wearing what brings them joy. The key will be helping the contestants to communicate the message they want to deliver through their clothing style. This reboot of a classic, Wear Whatever the F You Want premiers on April 29th.
Etoile
Etoile is a new original comedy/drama for Prime Video focused on the unpredictability of life. Two famous ballet studios, one in Paris and the other in New York City, play the setting for this inventive show. The show follows the reactions and snowball effect on the studios when they agree to trade their star dancer to the other studio. By trying a new publicity strategy, can the two dance studios save their businesses? Etiole premieres on April 24th.
Spy High
Spy High is a docuseries that takes a look at the life of a suburban high schooler who takes on his highly rated public school. Blake Robbins, a 15-year-old, was accused by his school of selling drugs. He fights back, claiming the school had no right to spy on him. The docuseries gives viewers a look at a real-life conflict: how much digital privacy should children be afforded in today’s technology-driven world? Spy High premiers on April 8th.
The Bondsman
For horror fans, The Bondsman should offer plenty of blood and intrigue. The premise is Kevin Bacon, playing the role of Hub Halloran, was killed in his job as bail bondsman (bounty hunter). He gets sent to hell, and the devil promises to reserect him if he helps to capture demons fleeing their jail. In doing so, Halloran discovers what sent him to hell so he can make up for past mistakes. The show promises to have a lot of gory, gruesome scenes, commonplace in any good horror production. The Bondsman premiers on April 3rd.
G20
This true action thriller on Prime Video is perfect for fans of “Die Hard” or just fans of action in general. Starring Viola Davis, this new show follows the direction of US President Danielle Sutton as she narrowly escapes a terrorist attack at the G20 summit in Africa. As she navigates the world’s dangers, it is her responsibility to protect her fellow leaders, her nation, and the loved ones that rely on her influence. G20 premiers on April 10th.
Prime Video April Wrap: The Rest Of The Releases
Outside of these six premieres, there are several other premieres on tap for April:
- Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX – April 8th
- Godfather of Harlem – April 13th
- #1 Happy Family USA – April 17th
- Leverage: Redemption – April 17th
- LOL: Se Rir, Já Era! – April 18th
With the level of diversity coming to Prime Video in April, along with possible additional premieres, the month is shaping up to provide a lot of entertainment for a variety of streaming audiences. Given the critical acclaim of some of their previous shows, Prime Video appears poised to clime up streamers’ watch lists.