Buzz
If this seems like typical corporate maneuvering for dominance and revenue, think about the actual impact on subscribers paying $16 monthly for HBO Max: A decline in bold original films and series, a much-reduced library of timeless cinema, and a subpar interface that complicates finding your desired content.
In my opinion, this is the perfect moment to cancel Max and subscribe to a streaming platform that genuinely values films and their enthusiasts. I believe you should follow suit. Here are four reliable options that justify your subscription fee. (One of them even comes at no cost)
The Criterion Channel
Since its inception in the 1980s as a distributor of artistic film classics, Criterion has set the benchmark for movie enthusiasts. Its exclusive collection of special edition DVDs features groundbreaking films spanning over a century of cinema, complete with detailed documentaries, insightful commentary, and more—so cherished that it has cultivated a devoted community of film lovers who still value physical media. (The semi-annual 50% off sale at Barnes & Noble is legendary.)
In 2019, Criterion transitioned its vast expertise into the streaming realm with The Criterion Channel, a platform entirely focused on showcasing the most 'significant' films—both in terms of artistic merit and cultural impact—ranging from timeless classics to modern masterpieces. Many of these films include the bonus features originally created for their DVD releases. With a rotating selection and curated collections that delve into diverse cinematic genres—from erotic thrillers to 1980s Asian-American cinema and even niche categories like films exploring the gay best friend trope—it’s essentially a film school streaming service for just $10.99 a month.
Subscribe to The Criterion Channel
Shudder
Horror often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves from mainstream critics, but Shudder’s creators understand its brilliance. This affordable streaming service is essential for fans of slasher films and giallo enthusiasts. Shudder not only debuts new horror titles like the Zoom-based thriller Host, but it also revives overlooked cult classics such as 1981's Possession (previously unavailable in its original form in the U.S.) and the Mexican supernatural gem Poison for the Fairies. Additionally, Shudder is the platform for The Last Drive-In With Joe Bob Briggs, a show with a fiercely loyal fanbase known as 'the mutants.' Briggs, a regular host, presents two horror films weekly, often tied to a theme, alongside historical insights, offbeat commentary, interviews with filmmakers, and occasional charity events. (One notable fundraiser supported a turtle rescue during a screening of Cannibal Holocaust, prompted by Darcy the Mail Girl.)
Subscribe to Shudder (price: $5.99/month, $56.99/year)
MUBI
Consider it the alternative high-end streaming platform for film aficionados. MUBI operates both as a streaming service and a film distributor. In its distribution role, it has recently introduced critically acclaimed arthouse films such as Céline Sciamma’s Petite Maman and Park Chan-wook’s Decision to Leave, bringing the same meticulous curation to its constantly updated library of foreign, arthouse, and documentary films. MUBI’s 'carefully selected' collection adds at least one new film daily, offering everything from recent independent releases to obscure gems by renowned directors and curated international picks—ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover.
Join MUBI (price: $12.99/month, $107.88/year)
Tubi
While Tubi might sound similar to MUBI, the two platforms are worlds apart. Where MUBI curates its offerings with meticulous care, Tubi casts a wide net, gathering a vast array of content it can legally stream. This doesn’t mean it’s all low-quality—though the free, ad-supported service does host plenty of titles that might feel at home on a Dollar Tree DVD rack. Yet, Tubi has become a favorite among film enthusiasts for its eclectic mix of over 50,000 titles, catering to even the most niche tastes. (Vulture recently praised it as “the quirky, free streamer [that] captured the internet’s affection.”)
Join Tubi (Price: $0/month, $0/year)
