Is the Criterion Channel Right for You?
The Pros and Cons of Criterion Channel
Pros
- High-quality streaming and restorations of classic films.
- Curated collections and thematic programming.
- Supplemental features and original content.
- Constant library updates with new films added regularly.
Cons
- Not every film from the Criterion Collection is available for streaming.
- Lacks parental controls and individual user profiles.
- Some older titles may have limited special features compared to physical media releases.
The Criterion Channel calls itself “A Movie Lover’s Dream”, and for good reason. The service is home to a wide and varied library of classic, landmark films carefully curated over time to provide the best the film world has to offer. From silent comedies to 1940s noir to modern classics, the library is full of seminal works from the industry’s foremost filmmakers, both in the United States and all around the world.
Always changing to cater to all tastes, the films are thematically collected and often include unique special features not available anywhere else. No matter your tastes, The Criterion Channel gathers beloved films from legendary directors to up-and-coming auteurs all over the globe curated into a true cinema-lover’s ideal streaming service.
Acorn TV Top Movies & Shows
Movies
The Truman Show
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Amadeus
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me
Shows
Berlin Alexanderplatz
Tanner '88
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Seduce Me
Criterion Channel Pricing
There are two different subscription options following a 7-day free trial:
- Monthly Plan: $10.99
- Annual Plan: $99.99
What do you get with the Criterion Channel?
The Criterion Channel is the paramount streaming service for film lovers. Thematically programmed with special features, the Criterion Channel offers constantly refreshed selections of Hollywood, international, art-house, and independent movies, plus access to Criterion's entire streaming library of more than 1,000 important classic and contemporary films from around the world.
How much does the Criterion Channel cost?
The Criterion Channel is very affordable at $10.99 a month, and you can save more by opting for a year's service for $99.99. Many of its films would cost as much if not more from competitors. They also provide a free 14-day trial for you to try out the service risk free, making it easy to check out.What is the Criterion Collection?
The Criterion Collection is a library of world-renowned films. Since 1984 it has been dedicated to publishing important classic and contemporary films from around the world in editions that offer the highest technical quality and award-winning, original supplements. No matter the medium, from laser-disk to blu-ray, Criterion has maintained its commitment to presenting each film as its maker would want it seen, in state-of-the-art restorations with special features designed to encourage repeated watching and deepen the viewer’s appreciation of the art of film.How is the content library curated?
The Criterion Channel curates its library quite studiously. They are always searching for and acquiring a wide variety of modern, landmark and classic films. These include the works of renowned and premier filmmakers, to notable up-and-coming directors from around the globe. With this carefully crafted library the Criterion Channel sets itself apart from the rest.
Benefits of Criterion Channel
- Access to a large library of classic and contemporary films, including many Criterion Collection releases.
- Thematic programming and curated collections make it easy to discover new films and explore different genres, directors, and eras.
- Supplemental features such as interviews, commentaries, and behind-the-scenes footage provide deeper context and appreciation for the films.
What users think about Criterion Channel
- Users appreciate the curated selection and high-quality restorations, viewing it as a valuable resource for cinephiles.
- They find the thematic programming and supplemental features enriching and educational.
- Some users express frustration with the lack of certain titles and features compared to the full Criterion Collection.
- Users have noted technical issues like buffering problems and device-related issues depending on the device used.
Criterion Channel is Best for
The Criterion Channel is best for serious film enthusiasts and those looking to expand their knowledge and appreciation of classic and art-house cinema.
How does the Criterion Channel compare?
If you’re a fan of film, or someone who often finds your movie streaming choices left wanting, the Criterion Channel is for you. Nowhere else are so many highly regarded, beloved, and esteemed films gathered in one place and at such a low price. With their ever-evolving curation process, Criterion continues growing its extensive, prestigious library and in effect its customer base.
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