Prime Video has brought back Dredd, the critically acclaimed 2012 sci-fi action movie based on the iconic 2000 AD comic strip Judge Dredd. Starring Karl Urban (The Boys) as the titular law enforcer, the film is set in the dystopian Mega-City One—a post-apocalyptic metropolis in a near-future United States where justice is swift and absolute.
The movie’s plot follows Dredd as he teams up with Cassandra (Olivia Thirlby, Oppenheimer), a rookie judge with powerful psychic abilities. Together, they confront a brutal drug lord named Ma-Ma (Lena Headey, Game of Thrones), who controls a dangerous section of the city and will stop at nothing to protect her empire.
This 2012 adaptation marked a significant improvement over the earlier 1995 Judge Dredd film starring Sylvester Stallone, garnering widespread praise for its compelling cast—including Domhnall Gleeson (Star Wars)—and its hard-hitting action sequences. The film also impressed critics with its stylish visuals, immersive world-building, and strong fidelity to the source material.
Written by Alex Garland, who later penned and directed modern sci-fi gems like Ex Machina and Annihilation, Dredd continues to be celebrated as a standout in the action movie genre. Garland’s involvement adds an extra layer of cinematic pedigree to this gripping film.
Critics have lauded Dredd since its release:
- Financial Times praised it as “a film made with love for the simple, cool and assured cult genre classics such as Rollerball, Robocop, and Escape from New York.”
- The Hollywood Reporter highlighted its gritty style, comparing it to cult favorites like District 9 and 28 Days Later rather than mainstream comic-book blockbusters.
- Philadelphia Inquirer called it “an instant classic for sci-fi action fans.”
- Time Out noted director Pete Travis’s skillful use of limited resources, emphasizing the “stunning industrial backdrops” and “sizzling” action scenes.
- Toronto Star described the film as “essentially a futuristic take on Die Hard or The Raid: Redemption,” praising its violent and faithful execution of the beloved character.
For fans eager to revisit this adrenaline-fueled world or newcomers seeking an intense sci-fi experience, Dredd is now available once again on Prime Video. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in strong movie characters and expertly crafted action movie plots.
