Cheyenne Cole
Staff Writer
On Nov. 1 Turner Classic Movies (TCM) and The Criterion Collection launched a new streaming service called FilmStruck.
The subscription service will feature a comprehensive library of films including an eclectic mix of contemporary and classic art house, indie, foreign and cult films.
FilmStruck features The Criterion Channel, a premium add-on tier that offers subscribers access to The Criterion Collection’s entire streaming library of films and special features.
The channel’s library includes the work of directors Michelangelo Antonioni, Ingmar Bergman, Federico Fellini, Akira Kurosawa and many more.
President of the Criterion Collection Peter Becker said the streaming platform is perfect for classic movie fans.
“There should never be a day of the year when you can’t watch ‘L’Avventura,” Becker said during an interview with the Wall Street Journal.
The channel features exclusive programming, including filmmaker profiles, masterclasses and curated series by celebrated guests from the film world and beyond.
FilmStruck believes the directors intended the viewers to see the films uncut and commercial-free so that it is how they are streamed.
Previously, Hulu Plus subscribers had exclusive access to The Criterion Collection films.
Now, the films will be available exclusively to FilmStruck subscribers.
FilmStruck is compatible with desktops and laptops, Android handsets and tablets, iPhones and iPads and Amazon Fire TVs.
The service will be compatible with the Google Chromecast and Roku sometime later in November.
FilmStruck adds new films to its lineup every week. Plans cost $6.99 per month for basic access or $10.99 per month for access to the additional Criterion Channel. Alternatively, viewers can subscribe for $99 per year at a discounted rate.
Viewers can sign up for a free two-week trial at http://www.filmstruck.com/sign-up.