The No. 1 movie on Prime is a “scary” thriller that Stephen King “loved.”

My theory is that streamers like Netflix, Hulu and Prime Video are investing more and more in safe, predictable content. Why? Because that's what the masses respond to best. But what's changed?

Standard narratives may not subvert expectations, but a large portion of the population seems to identify with this type of programming. Much of the content available on your favorite streaming platforms doesn't have particularly good ratings. But streamers continue to acquire and invest in this type of media.

Shallow waters

Night swimming is a great example of this. It's currently the #1 movie on Prime Video. The film wasn't a box office hit; the masses have been vocal in their criticism of it. But the film's success on streaming hasn't been affected by its reputation. It seems that a lot of people like something safe and familiar to watch while they relax. I can relate to that. When I'm in the mood, there's something comforting about a scenario that doesn't stray too far from expectations.

Believe it or not, the extraordinary author Stephen King calls himself a fan of this polarizing film. He admits that the film is simple. But King also announces Night swimming as very entertaining. In a post on X (Twitter) the author said: “I loved Night swimming (Amazon Prime). It's like a lost low-budget Steven Spielberg film from Spielberg's early days.“

Read Stephen King's detailed thoughts on Prime Video selection here

I loved THE NIGHT SWIM (Amazon Prime). It's like a lost low-budget Steven Spielberg film from Spielberg's early days… let's say after DUEL but before JAWS. Simple story, but… the cat on the diving board! And those creepy bunny slippers!

— Stephen King (@StephenKing) March 11, 2024

So there you have it. Stephen King had fun with this escapist horror thriller. And maybe you'll find something to like about it too. If your curiosity has gotten the better of you, you can read Night swimming now available on Prime Video.

If you are not too familiar with the setup, Night swimming plays out like this: Forced to retire early due to a degenerative disease, former baseball player Ray Waller moves into a new house with his wife and two children. He hopes the backyard swimming pool will be fun for the kids and serve as physical therapy for his illness. But soon a dark secret from the house's past unleashes a malevolent force that drags the family into the depths of inescapable terror.

That's all we have for you for now, check back in the near future to learn more about what movies are making a splash on your favorite streaming platforms.

Tags:Night Swim Prime Video Stephen King

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