Film Movement Plus Launches on Prime Video, Expanding Access to Indie and Arthouse Cinema
The ever-expanding landscape of streaming services has welcomed a new player dedicated to showcasing independent and arthouse films. Film Movement Plus, a curated collection of cinematic gems, launched on December 15th as an add-on subscription channel for Amazon Prime Video customers. This new service promises to bring a diverse selection of independent, world, and cult films, alongside documentaries and North American exclusives, directly to a broader audience.
While Film Movement already operates its own standalone streaming service since 2018, the launch of Film Movement Plus on Prime Video Channels represents a strategic move to increase accessibility and reach a wider demographic of film enthusiasts. The new channel, priced at $5.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers, aims to streamline access to Film Movement’s extensive catalog for Prime Video users.
A press release announcing the launch highlights the carefully curated nature of the service, emphasizing the inclusion of independent and world cinema, cult and arthouse classics, documentaries, and North American exclusives. Film Movement Plus is committed to refreshing its content regularly, with new movies, including both exclusive titles and titles new to streaming platforms, being added on a weekly basis. This consistent influx of fresh content ensures a constantly evolving selection for subscribers, encouraging repeat engagement and discovery.
The current offerings boast an impressive array of exclusive films, demonstrating the value proposition of the service. Titles such as "Diamond Island," "Holy Beasts," "The Mayor of Rione Sanita," "Hellhole," "While the Women Were Sleeping," "Claire Darling," and "Faith" are currently available exclusively on Film Movement Plus. These films represent a diverse range of cinematic styles and international perspectives, catering to a sophisticated audience with a taste for independent storytelling.
Beyond the exclusives, Film Movement Plus also distinguishes itself by featuring digitally restored versions of classic films. This commitment to preservation and presentation enhances the viewing experience and introduces these influential works to a new generation of viewers. Titles like Sergio Corbucci’s "The Great Silence," Ang Lee’s "Pushing Hands," Lee Tamahori’s "Once Were Warriors," and Ming-liang Tsai’s "Vive L’Amour" have been meticulously restored and are available for streaming on the service. These restorations not only offer improved picture and sound quality but also highlight the historical significance of these films within the broader cinematic landscape.
Michael Rosenberg, president of Film Movement, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch in the press release, emphasizing the company’s long-standing commitment to sharing cinematic gems with American audiences. "Since 2002, Film Movement’s objective has been to acquire cinematic gems from around the world and share them with American audiences," Rosenberg stated. "And, for the past five years, Film Movement Plus has given us a broad platform to serve cineastes with curated cinema wherever they may be. By launching our service on Prime Video via Prime Video Channels, we make it even easier for customers to enjoy our films and find the many titles that are only available on Film Movement Plus."
The partnership with Prime Video Channels offers several key advantages for Film Movement. Firstly, it allows them to tap into Prime Video’s massive user base, instantly expanding their potential audience. Secondly, it simplifies the subscription process for Prime Video customers, who can easily add Film Movement Plus to their existing subscriptions. Thirdly, the Prime Video platform provides a user-friendly interface and reliable streaming infrastructure, ensuring a seamless viewing experience.
Film Movement Plus enters a crowded streaming market, but its focus on curated independent and arthouse cinema sets it apart from general entertainment services. It caters specifically to film enthusiasts seeking a more discerning and diverse selection of films than what is typically offered by mainstream platforms. The addition of exclusive content and digitally restored classics further strengthens its appeal and justifies its subscription price.
The launch of Film Movement Plus is not only beneficial for film viewers but also for the independent film industry as a whole. By providing a platform for these films to reach a wider audience, Film Movement is contributing to their financial viability and ensuring that these important voices continue to be heard. The service offers a valuable alternative to the dominance of blockbuster films and commercially driven content, fostering a more diverse and enriching cinematic landscape.
In conclusion, Film Movement Plus represents a significant development in the streaming landscape for independent film lovers. Its curated selection, exclusive content, digitally restored classics, and accessibility through Prime Video Channels make it a compelling option for viewers seeking a more sophisticated and enriching cinematic experience. By offering a dedicated platform for independent and arthouse films, Film Movement Plus is not only expanding access to these films but also contributing to the overall health and diversity of the film industry. It’s a win-win for cinephiles and independent filmmakers alike. The consistent addition of new content will be key to its long-term success, ensuring that subscribers are continually discovering new cinematic treasures and maintaining the service’s value. The seven-day free trial provides an excellent opportunity for Prime Video customers to explore the offerings and determine if Film Movement Plus aligns with their cinematic tastes.
