The Streaming Landscape in 2024
There are now more streaming platforms than most people can reasonably subscribe to. Netflix, Disney+, Max, Hulu, Peacock, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, Mubi, and more all compete for your monthly budget. So how do you decide which ones are worth it — especially if movies are your primary reason for subscribing?
Step 1: Know Your Movie Priorities
Before comparing platforms, get clear on what you're actually looking for. Different services excel in different areas:
- New Hollywood blockbusters: Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
- Classic and arthouse cinema: Mubi, Criterion Channel, Kanopy
- Family and animation: Disney+, Netflix
- Horror and cult films: Shudder, Tubi
- International cinema: Mubi, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
- Documentaries: Netflix, HBO Max, Kanopy
Platform-by-Platform Breakdown
Netflix
Netflix has the broadest general appeal. Its movie library spans genres, eras, and countries. Original films range from prestige Oscar contenders to fun genre fare. The library's depth isn't as strong as it once was due to licensing competition, but it remains the most-used platform globally for good reason.
Max (formerly HBO Max)
If you care about quality over quantity, Max may be the most satisfying subscription. The Warner Bros. catalog, HBO originals, and a strong selection of theatrical films make it a top-tier choice for serious film fans. It's also the home of the Criterion Collection's digital presence in some regions.
Disney+
Essential for Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, Disney Animation, and National Geographic content. For general movie fans outside these franchises, its library is more limited — but it remains unmatched within its specific niches.
Mubi
Mubi is the streaming service built for cinephiles. It curates a rotating selection of acclaimed films — foreign, independent, classic, and experimental. At any given time you'll find a handpicked library of around 30 films, all selected with a clear point of view. It's affordable and unlike anything else available.
Amazon Prime Video
Often overlooked, Prime Video has a surprisingly strong movie catalog, particularly for licensed Hollywood titles and its own MGM acquisitions. It requires some navigation to identify what's included with Prime versus what requires additional rental fees, but the included library is substantial.
A Decision Framework
| If you love… | Start with… |
|---|---|
| Mainstream Hollywood films | Netflix or Max |
| Arthouse & world cinema | Mubi or Criterion Channel |
| Horror specifically | Shudder |
| Family movies | Disney+ |
| Documentaries | Netflix or Max |
| Classic cinema | Criterion Channel or Mubi |
| Free options | Tubi or Pluto TV |
Smart Subscription Strategy
- Subscribe month to month: Most platforms don't require long-term contracts, so you can rotate subscriptions based on what's new.
- Use free trials: Many platforms offer trial periods — use them to explore the library before committing.
- Share where allowed: Some platforms offer family or household plans that reduce per-person cost significantly.
- Supplement with free platforms: A paid subscription plus Tubi or Kanopy covers most bases without overspending.
The Bottom Line
There's no single "best" streaming service for movies — it depends entirely on what you watch. The smartest approach is to pick one or two primary subscriptions that match your taste, supplement with free options, and rotate as your watchlist evolves. You don't need to subscribe to everything at once.