Classic Movie Streaming Services

Classic Movie Streaming Services: Top Picks for Timeless Cinema

Whether you're a fan of black-and-white masterpieces or Technicolor wonders, classic movie streaming services offer a treasure trove of cinematic history at your fingertips. Here's our list of the top 11 platforms to keep your classic movie cravings satisfied.

1. The Criterion Channel

  • Pricing: $10.99/month or $99.99/year

  • Free Trial: 14 days

  • Pros: Exclusive access to Criterion Collection films; thoughtful curation with bonus content.

  • Cons: Focuses more on art-house and foreign films; higher price point.

  • Access: Available on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, iOS, Android, and Chromecast.

The Criterion Channel is a cinephile’s paradise, featuring an extensive library of classic and contemporary films from around the world. With carefully curated collections and insightful commentary, it’s perfect for those who appreciate film as an art form.

2. Turner Classic Movies (via Watch TCM)

  • Pricing: Requires a cable subscription

  • Free Trial: Depends on provider

  • Pros: A vast library of classic Hollywood films; no additional cost with a cable plan.

  • Cons: Only available with a cable subscription; no standalone app.

  • Access: Works with streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

For fans of Golden Age Hollywood, TCM offers a deep dive into American cinema history, complete with behind-the-scenes specials and curated themes.

3. HBO Max

  • Pricing: $15.99/month

  • Free Trial: None, but often bundled with internet providers

  • Pros: Includes many Warner Bros. classics; high-quality streaming.

  • Cons: More expensive; classic films are part of a larger library, not a primary focus.

  • Access: Compatible with most devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and smart TVs.

HBO Max offers a robust collection of classic films alongside its mainstream content, making it a versatile choice for movie lovers.

netflix free trial

netflix free trial

4. Netflix

  • Pricing: Starts at $6.99/month (with ads)

  • Free Trial: None

  • Pros: Affordable entry-level plan; a rotating selection of popular classics.

  • Cons: Limited depth in classic cinema; titles frequently change.

  • Access: Universal support across streaming devices and smart TVs.

Though not specifically tailored for classic cinema, Netflix occasionally features well-loved classics, making it worth checking out for casual fans.

amazon-prime-free-trial

amazon-prime-free-trial

5. Amazon Prime Video

  • Pricing: $14.99/month or $139/year

  • Free Trial: 30 days

  • Pros: Large library of classics; can rent or buy specific titles.

  • Cons: Classic films are scattered and require searching; some titles are pay-per-view.

  • Access: Available on most streaming devices, smart TVs, and Amazon Channels.

Amazon Prime Video’s extensive library includes a good mix of classic and contemporary films, along with the ability to add specialty channels like MGM+ for an even deeper selection.

peacock-tv-free-trial

peacock-tv-free-trial

6. Peacock

  • Pricing: Free tier available; Premium starts at $5.99/month

  • Free Trial: Free tier available

  • Pros: Affordable; offers a curated selection of classics.

  • Cons: Limited selection compared to other platforms.

  • Access: Available on most devices, including smart TVs and Roku.

Peacock’s library may be smaller, but its affordability and ease of use make it a solid option for casual classic movie fans.

mubi free trial

mubi free trial

7. Mubi

  • Pricing: $10.99/month

  • Free Trial: 7 days

  • Pros: Handpicked selection; emphasis on art-house and international classics.

  • Cons: Limited library size; films rotate frequently.

  • Access: Supported on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, and mobile apps.

Mubi caters to cinephiles looking for hidden gems, with a unique rotating catalog that ensures there’s always something new to explore.

8. Kanopy

  • Pricing: Free with a library card or university login

  • Free Trial: Not applicable

  • Pros: Completely free; rich selection of classics and documentaries.

  • Cons: Requires a library card; limited to participating institutions.

  • Access: Compatible with Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and mobile devices.

Kanopy offers a wealth of classic films and documentaries for free, making it an unbeatable option for those with access to participating libraries.

9. Pluto TV

  • Pricing: Free

  • Free Trial: Not applicable

  • Pros: Completely free; dedicated classic movie channels.

  • Cons: Ad-supported; no on-demand options.

  • Access: Available on most streaming devices, including Roku, Fire TV, and smart TVs.

For budget-conscious viewers, Pluto TV’s live-streamed classic movie channels provide hours of entertainment without costing a dime.

10. Classix

  • Pricing: $3.99/month or $29.99/year

  • Free Trial: 7 days

  • Pros: Dedicated exclusively to classics; affordable.

  • Cons: Less polished interface; smaller library.

  • Access: Works on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and iOS/Android.

Classix is a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for fans of public domain films and early Hollywood cinema.

shudder tv free trial

shudder tv free trial

11. Shudder

  • Pricing: $5.99/month or $56.99/year

  • Free Trial: 7 days

  • Pros: Great for horror classics; affordable.

  • Cons: Focused mainly on horror; not a broad selection of general classics.

  • Access: Available on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and mobile devices.

While Shudder specializes in horror, its collection includes several iconic classic films that genre fans will appreciate.

Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Platform

With so many great options, there’s a classic movie streaming service for every type of cinephile. Whether you’re diving into Hollywood’s golden era on TCM or exploring international gems on Criterion Channel, these platforms bring timeless films directly to your screen. Start your cinematic journey today and rediscover the classics!