A guide to enjoying movie nights without breaking the bank.
By Jane Smith
Updated: May 14, 2022
Originally Published: Dec. 13, 2021
Movie nights have definitely evolved, haven’t they? As a parent, your days are filled with YouTube unboxing videos and kids’ cartoons. Once the little ones are tucked in, you find yourself with a precious two hours before your partner turns into a pumpkin. The days of exploring Blockbuster together are long gone, which is truly a shame. Whether your partner is intent on watching Pride & Prejudice (the one with Matthew Macfadyen) or you’re eager to revisit The Matrix trilogy, tracking down those films can be a hassle, especially since Netflix’s catalog has changed so much. With the rise of numerous streaming services, pinpointing the exact film you want can take a while. What you truly need is a comprehensive list of the top streaming sites to avoid aimless scrolling until you both drift off.
Naturally, with so many streaming platforms available, it begs the question: which ones are worth the investment? And which free options won’t make you feel guilty for tuning in? We’ve sifted through numerous services to highlight the best choices.
Top Paid Movie Streaming Sites
- Amazon Prime
Chances are you’re already subscribed to Amazon Prime, so why not take advantage of Prime Video? Its library is vast, though not everything is included for free. Look for the “Prime” banner on titles to avoid disappointment.
Cost: $12.99/month (includes Prime Video) or $8.99/month for Prime Video only. - Apple TV Plus
While Apple TV Plus requires a subscription, it offers a seven-day free trial and access to popular series like Ted Lasso and The Morning Show. If you own Apple devices, you can enjoy three months free.
Cost: $4.99/month. - Discovery+
Looking for a gift idea? A subscription to Discovery+ could be perfect. Priced at around $5 a month, it provides access to shows and movies from A&E, TLC, and more.
Cost: $4.99/month. - Disney+
Disney+ is a fantastic alternative to cable, featuring an extensive library of classic and new films, including Hamilton.
Cost: $7.99/month; $13.99 for the ad-supported Disney Bundle (Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu); $19.99 for the ad-free bundle. - Crunchyroll
If you’re into anime, Crunchyroll is the ultimate destination.
Cost: Subscriptions start at $7.99/month, with many titles available for free. - HBO Max
While not essential, HBO Max offers a wealth of movies and exclusive content.
Cost: $9.99/month with ads; $14.99/month for ad-free HD. - Hulu
Hulu has grown from a TV service to a great movie platform with a rotating selection that changes with holidays.
Cost: $6.99/month (ad-supported); $12.99/month (ad-free); $64.99/month for Hulu+ Live. - Netflix
Despite a reduced library, Netflix still boasts thousands of films and is committed to producing new original content.
Cost: $8.99 (basic); $13.99 (standard); $17.99 (premium). - Paramount+
Initially met with skepticism, Paramount+ has proven its worth with an impressive selection across genres.
Cost: $4.99 to $14.99/month. - Peacock
Originally drawn in by Saved By The Bell, Peacock also has a plethora of films to enjoy.
Cost: Free (basic); $4.99/month for Peacock Premium. - Redbox
Instead of heading out to a physical kiosk, use the Redbox app for convenience.
Cost: Varies based on rentals. - Showtime
If you already enjoy Showtime, their app is a cost-effective solution.
Cost: $10.99/month. - Vudu
Vudu focuses primarily on rentals but also has a substantial free ad-supported section.
Cost: Varies based on rentals.
Top Free Movie Streaming Sites
- Bounce TV
Bounce offers a selection of quality shows and movies, including blockbuster films and sports events. - Crackle
Sony’s Crackle is a notable free service, featuring ads but a solid selection of films. - FilmRise
Packed with classic films and shows, FilmRise is a must-try. - GazeboTV
This niche service features content from Sullivan Entertainment, including beloved adaptations like Anne of Green Gables. - IMDB
IMDB is not just a database; it also streams films with occasional ads. - Kanopy
With a library card, enjoy ad-free access to a diverse range of films. - Plex
Though its interface can be tricky, Plex offers a decent library for free. - Popcornflix
Explore a large collection of films, notably in the sci-fi category. - Roku Channel
Roku offers free streaming without requiring an email address, though availability may vary by region. - SolarMovie
Offering a seamless experience, SolarMovie provides a wide selection of free films and series. - Tubi
With over 20,000 titles, Tubi is a treasure trove for movie lovers. - YouTube
While it hosts some pirated content, many films are legally available for free viewing.
More Options
- Sling TV ($35+/month)
- Pluto TV (free)
- Vumoo (free)
- AZMovies (free)
- Gostream (free)
- Internet Archive (free)
For even more insights on movie and streaming options, check out our related post here. If you’re curious about financial aspects related to home insemination, visit this resource. For a thorough understanding of fertility topics, Science Daily offers an excellent repository of information.
Summary: The landscape of movie streaming has transformed significantly, providing a myriad of options for both paid and free services. From Amazon Prime to Crunchyroll and even various ad-supported platforms, there are choices for every budget. With this guide, you can easily navigate the best sites and apps to enjoy your favorite films.