If you're like us, you've already hitched your wagon to "Little House on the Prairie," Netflix's new adaptation of the beloved Laura Ingalls Wilder book of the same name. The Western historical drama, which galloped onto the streaming service on July 9 and has already hit No. 1, faithfully follows that iconic source material, joining the Ingalls family as they establish their home outside the developing town of Independence, Kansas.

But if you've already hurried through all eight episodes with Charles, Caroline, Laura and the rest of the Ingalls crew, don't fret! We've got three more frontier-focused dramas for you to add to your watch list, each packed with survivalist struggles, family dynamics, historical details and epic Western beauty.

Whether you're in the mood for a wholesome family-driven drama or a guns-blazing Western saga, here are three frontier dramas to watch after "Little House on the Prairie."

'Anne with an E'

Similarly based on a much-loved book from our childhoods—that would, of course, be L.M. Montgomery's 1908 classic "Anne of Green Gables"—this Canadian period drama centers on plucky, imaginative Anne Shirley (Amybeth McNulty), a 13-year-old orphan who comes to live with a pair of elderly siblings, Marilla (Geraldine James) and Matthew (R.H. Thomson), in the fictional town of Avonlea, Prince Edward Island.

Over the course of three seasons and 27 episodes, the late-19th-century coming-of-age drama follows Anne as she makes a home for herself on the siblings' ancestral farm of Green Gables, dealing with schoolyard bullying, class differences, burgeoning friendships, childhood trauma and small-town life along the way.

Stream "Anne with an E" on Netflix now

'1883'

If you want a less whimsical and more weathered take on the frontier genre, this "Yellowstone" prequel recounts the gritty origin story of the famed Dutton family, following James and Margaret Dutton (played by country icons and real-life couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill) as they flee poverty in Texas and journey west through the Great Plains to seek a better future for their family in Montana. (There, they'll found the ranch that Kevin Costner's sixth-generation patriarch John Dutton runs in the "Yellowstone" flagship series.)

A stark retelling of Western expansion, "1883" also features Oscar nominee Sam Elliott as Shea Brennan, a tough-as-nails cowboy with immense sadness in his past, and dots its sweeping landscapes with some pretty starry cameos, including Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson and Billy Bob Thornton.

Stream "1883" on Paramount+ now

'Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman'

Jane Seymour stars as the titular Michaela Anne "Dr. Mike" Quinn in "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman," a CBS Western series that ran for six seasons from 1993 to 1998. Following the death of her physician father, the female doc moves from post-Civil War Boston to the rugged frontier town of Colorado Springs, where she'll have to try to win over skeptical townsfolk who are less than open to a working woman, let alone one with progressive, humanitarian ideals.

As Dr. Mike settles into the community, she unexpectedly becomes the adoptive mother of three orphaned children — Matthew (Chad Allen), Colleen (Erika Flores) and Brian (Shawn Toovey) — and enters into a relationship with a rugged mountain man named Byron Sully (Joe Lando).

Stream "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" on Pluto TV now

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I love being right, and when I saw "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" was certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes after flopping in theaters, you know I was doing a victory lap. This hilarious fantasy heist more than earns its 91% critics' score and equally impressive 92% among audiences, and that's coming from a D&D neophyte. With "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" finally free to stream on Pluto TV, I'm hoping this slept-on gem will finally find its audience. To this day, I argue that if it had been released after "Baldur's Gate 3," there'd be no question of a sequel.

Even if you've never rolled a D20 before in your life (or don't have a clue what that is), the humor is easy to follow. I sold it to my least chronically online friend with two words: chunky dragon. I'd only played a few one-shots of Dungeons and Dragons myself back when I saw it in 2023 for that sick popcorn bucket, and I expected all the jokes to fly right over my head. What I didn't expect was for it to become one of my favorite movies of the year, not to mention the best (if only) fantasy heist movie of all time.

If you enjoy grand adventures that don't take themselves too seriously, add "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" to your watchlist. I promise you won't regret it. Plus, with Netflix developing a live-action Dungeons and Dragons show, it's the perfect movie to whet your appetite for more fantasy adventures. Still not convinced? Here's everything you need to know about "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" and why it deserves a spot on your watchlist.

What is 'D&D: Honor Among Thieves' about?

Directed and co-written by Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, "Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" follows your typical band of misfits doomed by the narrative toward a future (and found family) they're emotionally allergic to. Chris Pine shows off his comedy chops as the roguish bard Edgin (Chris Pine), who starts the movie in prison alongside his loyal barbarian companion Holga (Michelle Rodriguez) after a job goes spectacularly wrong.

Once the pair escapes through rather...unconventional means (RIP Jarnathan), he assembles a ragtag crew for a high-stakes quest. That includes the well-meaning but self-doubting sorcerer Simon (Justice Smith) and a shape-shifting druid Doric (Sophia Lillis). Together, they set out to recover a powerful relic and rescue Edgin’s daughter from the clutches of a former ally. Joining them along the way is noble paladin Xenk (Regé-Jean Page), who is entirely too OP for the party and delivers one of the film's funniest moments just by walking.

The story itself follows a familiar fantasy-adventure formula, but what sells you is the delightfully committed cast, sharp humor, and one of the most accurate depictions of Dungeons & Dragons ever put on screen. More than anything, "Honor Among Thieves" succeeds because it’s just a fun time. Its infectious sense of fun makes it hard not to get swept up in the adventure, giggling all the while.

For longtime Dungeons & Dragons fans, the movie is also filled with rewarding nods to the franchise’s history, from faithful re-creations of iconic monsters to references and cameos tied to the 1980s animated series.

'D&D: Honor Among Thieves' reviews — a goofball fantasy romp

I'm happy to say that though it floundered in theaters, earning an underwhelming $208.2 million on a budget of around $150 million, that wasn't because of weak review scores. On Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds an impressive 91% score from critics and 92% from audiences, which is a testament to its overall quality.

"Chris Pine and Michelle Rodriguez have terrific buddy-movie chemistry in a fantasy film that deftly balances high-stakes action, warm drama and clever comedy," said Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times. Meanwhile, Decider called it "popcorn japery in fine form" and "a relentlessly funny fantasy lark."

"The same unpredictability that allows the tabletop game to feel exciting and real occurs throughout the film, making it stand out from its action-comedy counterparts," said Olivia McCormack of the Washington Post.

Although it struggled to make much of an impact at the box office, it's found new life with viewers on streaming in the years since, growing into a bona fide cult favorite.

Stream 'Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves' on Pluto TV now

Now that "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" is streaming for free, I'm going to be even more insufferable about recommending it to people. Keep in mind that while it's free, you'll need to create a Pluto TV account to watch it. With the growing price of streaming these days, I'm sure I'm not alone in turning to the best free streaming services more and more to cut down on my monthly bill.

Pluto TV also recently became home to another nerdy cult classic: "Battlestar Galactica." All four seasons of the main series plus the miniseries and "The Plan" arrived on the platform in May. As did the "Airplane" movies and "Galaxy Quest" if you're looking for more light-hearted watches. Who would blame you in this news cycle?

Stream "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" on Pluto TV now.

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I don't know about you, but it seems like every TV show these days is tailor-made to spike our stress hormones. Whether it's the high-pressure dramas, tense true crime thrillers or, you know, the actual news, there are seemingly few television programs made with comfort and calm in mind. "The Joy of Painting" is, joyfully, one of them.

Hosted by painter Bob Ross, the PBS favorite ran for 33 tranquil seasons from January 11, 1983, to May 17, 1994, and taught soothed viewers tips and techniques for landscape oil painting and the artist's signature "happy little trees." And, blessedly, Pluto TV — one of the leading FAST (free ad-supported streaming television) services around — has an entire 24/7 streaming network devoted to Bob Ross and nonstop episodes of "The Joy of Painting."

And this writer, who has been tuning into the popular and pacifying channel for a daily dose of calm, doesn't feel any guilt about her Bob Ross binge-watching because, unlike subscription streaming platforms, the channel is completely free. (Speaking of, the platform has countless free channels to check out, whether you're into old-school sitcoms, nature documentaries or nonstop tennis.) Need more convincing? Here's why you should spend some cozy time with Bob Ross via Pluto TV.

Pluto TV's Bob Ross channel is a seemingly endless feel-good stream

As mellow as the yellow on his trusty paint palette, the Bob Ross Channel is a dedicated 24/7 network that streams episodes of "The Joy of Painting" completely free. There are a whopping 30 seasons and nearly 400 half-hour episodes of the instructional, educational program available on the streaming service, which means it's unlikely that you'll see the exact same patiently-painted vista twice.

"Bob Ross offers soothing words of encouragement to viewers and painting hobbyists in this enormously popular series which has captivated audiences worldwide since 1982," reads Pluto TV's official description of "The Bob Ross Channel," adding of "The Joy of Painting": "It is the most-watched, most-recognized television art program in history."

Why you should you stream Bob Ross on Pluto TV

When you think of the "cozy TV" genre, few programs are quite as comforting and calming as "The Joy of Painting" and Pluto TV's 24-hour "The Bob Ross Channel" lets you experience those hypnotically lulling, refreshingly positive qualities without pause, exactly the kind of thing yours truly wants to watch to unwind after a long day or quiet my mind before going to bed.

But equally appealing is the creative aspect of Ross's program, best exemplified by the artist's iconic wet-on-wet method, where you apply wet paint directly on top of previously laid wet layers without waiting for the canvas to dry. But even with his technical skill and prolific output, Ross was always quick to remind viewers that "there are no mistakes, only happy accidents" when it comes to creation, that artistic expression was all about process and not perfection, producing an atmosphere that was all joy, no judgment. How many TV shows can say that?!

Stream "The Bob Ross Channel" on Pluto TV now

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Romance is one of those genres you can’t help but return to, especially around this time of year. Cozying up for a breezy rom-com is practically a Valentine's Day staple, but with the price of streaming creeping higher and higher these days, you'll catch me making the most of the best free streaming services. Ones like Tubi and Roku offer surprisingly impressive libraries, including many genre classics that have a way of worming into your heart. After all, it's not like romcoms have changed all that much over the decades anyway; that's kinda part of the appeal: getting whisked away to a dreamy escape where love is possible and everyone's hot.

Streaming these romcoms won't cost you a penny, with the trade-off that you'll have to sit through some pesky advertisements. To help you skip the scrolling and get to streaming this Valentine's Day, I wanted to highlight the best these free streaming services have to offer. No one wants a horrible movie spoiling the mood.

Here are the three best rom-coms that you can stream for free this Valentine's Day.

'Four Weddings and a Funeral' (Tubi)

Kicking things off with a crowd-pleasing classic, the first entry on this list takes us back to the heyday of British romantic comedies. The first collaboration between Richard Curtis — the screenwriter of other romcom staples like "Bridget Jones," "Notting Hill" and "Love Actually" — and Hugh Grant before he became a household name, it centers on one of the most enjoyable on-screen romances to watch unfold in any movie, period.

As the name suggests, "Four Weddings and a Funeral" follows the stammering yet charming eternal bachelor Charles, who stumbles through four weddings and a funeral with his close circle of friends. Each event sends him into the orbit of an alluring American named Carrie, who instantly captures his attention, though the two can't seem to get the timing right despite their clear chemistry.

Watch "Four Weddings and a Funeral" on Tubi now

'Return to Me' (Roku)

Director Bonnie Hunt’s "Return to Me" isn't as well-known as some of the most iconic 2000s rom-coms, but it's got a quirky, irresistible charm that I keep coming back to. David Duchovny is suitably dreamy as a lovesick Chicago architect mourning his wife (Joely Richardson) after a terrible car accident. That same night, terminally ill Grace (Minnie Driver) receives the heart transplant she desperately needed to survive. I'll give you one guess whose heart she received.

Jumping forward a year later, Bob is still grappling with his grief and completing the zoo project his late wife once championed when fate puts him on a collision course with Grace, now slowly reclaiming a normal life and helping out at her grandfather’s neighborhood restaurant. It's a plot that, on paper, sounds cooked up in a lab, but a pair of wonderfully heartfelt performances from its two leads, not to mention a soundtrack dripping in nostalgia, shine with enough earnest hope to make you believe in love again.

Watch "Return to Me" on the Roku Channel now

'Shakespeare in Love' (Pluto)

While "Shakespeare in Love" often gets badmouthed for beating out "Saving Private Ryan" for Best Picture when it came out, this swoony romantic comedy is still making audiences swoon just as much now as it did in 1998. Directed by John Madden, this heart-achingly sweet romantic period comedy imagines a secret affair between legendary playwright William Shakespeare (Joseph Fiennes) and Viola de Lesseps (Gwyneth Paltrow) that sparks as he writes one of his most famous works: Romeo and Juliet. Viola, the sharp-witted daughter of a wealthy merchant, disguises herself as a male actor to perform in a play. When he catches her, it's love at first sight. There's just the small problem of her fiancé, the scheming Lord Wessex (Colin Firth).

"Shakespeare in Love" stands as a touching reminder that even the bard himself was once a scared theater kid eager to prove himself on opening night. With plenty of clever twists, juicy court intrigue, and a tenderly human love story at its heart, "Shakespeare in Love" succeeds on nearly every level, a timeless tale to lose yourself in "Hamnet" whet your appetite for masterful storytelling.

Watch "Shakespeare in Love" on Pluto now

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As I'm sure you're aware, the iconic frontman Ozzy Osbourne passed away yesterday. The legendary metal musician had just recently performed his final concert, but it was still a shock when the news was announced.

So whether you're a fan like me, who actually got to meet Ozzy at a book signing as a freshman in college, or just someone who wants to see what the Prince of Darkness was all about, Pluto TV has the perfect way to honor the late great singer: binge-watching all four seasons of "The Osbournes."

Yes, you read that correctly. Pluto TV is currently airing every episode of the award-winning reality TV show in a day-long marathon. The first run started airing on the MTV Pluto TV channel yesterday (July 22) at 6 p.m. ET and will end today (July 23) at 8:30 p.m. ET. A second run will air this weekend starting at 1:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, July 26 to 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 27.

But that's not the only way to watch Ozzy, Sharon, Kelly and Jack on Pluto TV. Here's how to watch all four seasons of "The Osbournes" for free — from anywhere — on Pluto TV.

What is ‘The Osbournes’ about?

For those of you who missed the hit reality show when it aired on MTV, here's a quick rundown on "The Osbournes."

The show ran from 2002-2005 and was a celebrity reality show that followed around Ozzy and his family: his wife Sharon, his daughter Kelly and his son Jack. It followed them around in their day-to-day lives, and is considered a pioneering show in the reality genre, often credited with launching the celebrity reality subgenre.

Of course, like with most reality shows, it's not always completely unscripted. At least, that's what Kelly and Jack have alleged in subsequent interviews.

It's not without controversy either. The Osbournes' other daughter, Aimee, was against the show and refused to participate. She is either absent or blurred throughout the four-season run.

Ozzy, for his part, never watched the show after its run. He had publicly admitted he was stoned the entire time (h/t Daily Record), and after the show's run, he made the choice to be sober, so he couldn't bring himself to watch it.

That's not to say he hated the show or reality TV. In fact, there was a revival series, "Home to Roost," being planned in 2022 for BBC One, but it had failed to materialize prior to Ozzy's death.

How to watch 'The Osbournes' on Pluto TV for free

There are two ways to watch "The Osbournes" on Pluto TV, which is available in several regions, including the U.S., U.K., Australia and Canada.

First, Pluto is doing two marathons on its free streaming service live TV channels. The first run started airing on the MTV Pluto TV channel yesterday (July 22) at 6:00 p.m. ET and will end today (July 23) at 8:30 p.m. ET. A second run will air this weekend starting at 1:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, July 26 to 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 27.

If you're someone that prefers to set their own schedule, though, you can also stream all four seasons of "The Osbournes" on demand via Pluto TV — no account needed.

Watch 'The Osbournes' on Pluto TV anywhere

Away from home at the moment and blocked from watching "The Osbournes" on your Pluto TV app?

You can still watch the special thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network). The software allows your devices to appear to be back in your home country regardless of where in the world you are. Ideal when you're away on vacation or on business. Our favorite is NordVPN – and you can find out why in our NordVPN review.

Using a VPN is incredibly simple.

1. Install the VPN of your choice. As we've said, NordVPN is our favorite.

2. Choose the location you wish to connect to in the VPN app. For instance, if you're visiting the U.K. and want to view a U.S. service, you'd select U.S. from the list.

3. Sit back and enjoy the action. Fire up your website or streaming service of choice and tune in just as you would at home.

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We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Free streaming services are made for watching great movies. This month, Pluto TV just added one of my favorite comic book movies, and you can stream it right now for free.

No, I'm not talking about one of the Marvel movies; I'm talking about Oscar-winner Guillermo del Toro's 2004 classic: "Hellboy."

This was one of the first comic book movies I ever saw, and from the first moment, I loved it. The performances are great, particularly Ron Perlman as the titular superhero/demon.

Just as importantly, it was also the first del Toro movie I saw, and it made me a permanent fan of the iconic director. If you don't find the fishy romance at the heart of "The Shape of Water" particularly accessible, then "Hellboy" is a great way to get into del Toro's work. It even still features Doug Jones as a half-man/half-fish creature!

So without further ado, here's what "Hellboy" is about and why you need to be streaming it on Pluto TV this month.

What is 'Hellboy' about?

"Hellboy" is adapted from the Dark Horse Comics series of the same name, pulling from the character's debut comic run, "Hellboy: Seed of Destruction."

The movie starts in 1944, towards the end of World War II. The Nazis, led by the Russian mystic Rasputin, are close to opening a portal with the inent of unleashing demons on the world to win the war for Germany.

Thankfully, a team of Allied soldiers arrives, along with the paranormal scientist Trevor "Broom" Bruttenholm. They put a stop to the Nazi plan, but not before a baby demon makes it through the portal. Broom adopts the young creature and names him "Hellboy."

Fast forward to the present day and Hellboy, Broom are working with the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense to stop other demons and paranormal occurrences.

Unfortunately, their job is about to get a lot harder. Turns out the Nazi's didn't die in 1944, and they've now ressurected Rasputin with the sole intent of using Hellboy's demonic powers to being about the apocalypse.

'Hellboy' inspired the MCU but still feels fresh

Going back to "Hellboy" feels like a breath of fresh air in today's superhero movie landscape.

While every comic book adaptation today feels uninspired or rehashed (though it seems "Thunderbolts*" is a return to form), del Toro's distinct filmmaking style sets "Hellboy" apart.

For starters, the movie is almost entirely in darkness. The creature design is incredible, even with the limits of CGI in 2004. While it doesn't get quite as weird as del Toro's later work, like "Pan's Labyrinth," it's undeniably a del Toro film.

But revisiting it all these years later, it's clear this movie inspired the superhero movies to come.

Hellboy's dialogue could be dropped into a script for Tony Stark and people wouldn't know the difference.

There are occult Nazi's trying to rule the world (see: Hydra) and there's a scene where Hellboy smashes in the hood of a car to stop it that you could see Hulk or a few other MCU characters try in a Marvel movie without batting an eye.

Of course, both del Toro and the source material are inspired by the DC and Marvel Jack Kirby comics of old.

"Hellboy" creator Mike Mignola worked for both Marvel and DC before creating "Hellboy," and if I told you he worked with characters that included Daredevil, The Incredible Hulk and Batman, you probably wouldn't be surprised at this point.

So if you love comic book movies, "Hellboy" is a must-watch. Go stream it for free now, whether you've never seen it before or just need to revisit Guillermo del Toro's creation.

Stream "Hellboy" for free on Pluto TV

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"Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning" will hit theaters later this month. So to celebrate, the free streaming service Pluto TV has added several "Mission: Impossible" movies that you can watch right now.

Even better, it's adding one more later this month, with "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation" arriving on May 13.

So your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to stream all these incredible action movies starring the incomparable Tom Cruise — for free.

Here are the 'Mission: Impossible' movies coming to Pluto TV this month.

'Mission: Impossible' (1996)

"Mission: Impossible" rebooted the spy franchise following a failed attempt in 1988 to reboot the original 1966 show. It also introduces us to Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt.

The movie begins with the Impossible Mission Force (IMF) in Prague to prevent rogue agent Alexander Golitsyn (Marcel Iureș) from selling a CIA NOC list. The operation ends in disaster, leaving Hunt as the sole survivor.

That raises the suspicions of IMF director Eugene Kittridge (Henry Czerny), who now believes Hunt is a mole within the IMF. Hunt realizes this and has to make a quick escape with explosive chewing gum.

As Hunt tries to prove his innocence, the plot does get a bit convoluted. Still, the special effects in this movie are worth a slightly messy story.

Stream it free on Pluto TV

'Mission: Impossible II' (2000)

"Mission: Impossible 2" has Cruise reprising as Hunt, no longer a suspected mole within the IMF. The movie starts with an incredible shot of Hunt hanging from the side of the Grand Canyon, which is one of several iconic Tom Cruise stunts from the film series.

Hunt's mission this time around is to stop a plot to threaten the world with a biological weapon known as the Chimera virus, led by rogue IMF agent Sean Ambrose (Dougray Scott).

"Mission: Impossible 2" is complicated. It brought in a new director, John Woo. In characteristic Woo fashion, the action scenes are incredible. Unfortunately, the story and plot that take us from action sequence to action sequence leave something to be desired.

Stream it free on Pluto TV

'Mission: Impossible III' (2006)

"Mission: Impossible III" is the first movie where the franchise shows the potential for something more than a compilation of action sequences.

It also sets the stage for the modern "Mission: Impossible" movies we know and love. The movie begins with Hunt now out of the IMF and trying to live a normal life with Julia (Michelle Monaghan), a nurse.

But, of course, Hunt's forced back into action when one of his trainees (Keri Russell) is held captive. Now, maniacal arms dealer Owen Davian (Philip Seymour Hoffman) stands between Hunt and a normal life, setting up an epic showdown between two phenomenal actors.

This movie is where we meet Benji (Simon Pegg), who joins the team of Hunt (Cruise) and Luther (Ving Rhames). That trio would be the core of the following movies in the franchise, making this movie quite important in retrospect.

Stream it free on Pluto TV

'Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol' (2011)

If "Mission: Impossible III" is responsible for laying the groundwork for the "Mission: Impossible" movies of today, then "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" marks the true beginning of that new era.

By this, I mean that there are lots of new, absolutely insane stunts from this movie on.

Seriously, if you thought Tom Cruise had been doing wild stunts in the previous "Mission: Impossible "movies, you haven't seen anything until you watch Cruise as Hunt scale the side of the massive Burj Khalifa tower in Dubai in this movie.

In terms of plot, things kick off with a causal bombing of the Kremlin in Moscow. This leads to the Impossible Missions Force (IMF) being shut down and Hunt and his team having to go without resources while trying to clear their names.

Stream it free on Pluto TV

COMING LATER THIS MONTH

'Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation' (2015)

"Mission: Impossible 3" set up the team of Cruise, Rhames and Pegg. "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" turned the franchise into a critically acclaimed series and turned the stunts up to 11.

But "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation" brought in writer/director Christopher McQuarrie and he and Cruise have had total control of the franchise ever since.

In "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation," the IMF has been absorbed into the CIA, meaning that Hunt's associates from his IMF days are now working for the agency under close watch.

That's a problem for Hunt, who could use the help. He's on the run from the treacherous Syndicate organization with MI6 agent Ilsa Faust (Ferguson), and they are not an enemy to be trifled with.

Stream it free on Pluto TV starting May 13

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As a streaming writer, I’m often asked what my favorite movie is, and without hesitation, I’ll say “Alien” takes the top spot. But coming in hot right behind it is “Overlord,” a movie that many people (unfortunately) haven’t heard of.

That’s why I’m here to talk about it, especially since it’s streaming for free on Pluto TV in the U.S.

“Overlord” is a grungy, action-packed, and brutally awesome horror-thriller. It’s an American alternate history war movie set during the D-Day invasion, but with a dark twist — the Nazis are conducting horrific experiments underground. This story imagines a chilling alternate history scenario where these twisted experiments were part of the war effort.

If you’re a fan of gritty zombie flicks like “28 Days Later,” you’ll definitely want to check this one out while it’s on Pluto TV. Just a heads-up though, it leaves the free streaming service at the end of the month on March 31.

So, here’s why you should stream “Overlord,” one of the best war horror-thrillers ever made.

What is ‘Overlord’ about?

“Overlord” follows a group of American paratroopers who are sent on a covert mission to destroy a Nazi-controlled radio tower located in a small French village.

As they approach the village, the team, led by Corporal Ford (Wyatt Russell), discover that the Nazis are conducting horrific experiments on the locals, turning them into monstrous, undead-like creatures.

Among the soldiers is Boyce (Jovan Adepo), a young and reluctant soldier who is thrust into a nightmare of survival as he uncovers the dark truth behind the experiments.

Alongside Ford, Boyce and their team must battle not only the German soldiers but also the terrifying creations that the Nazis have unleashed.

Here’s why you need to stream ‘Overlord’

I love “Overlord” so much that I’ve honestly lost track of how many times I’ve watched it. It’s such an adrenaline-pumping ride that, even though I know every scene by heart, I still have the same gut reaction every time. That’s what makes it one of the best movies ever made.

“Overlord” pretty much gets everything right, diving into so many genres that it’s bound to please most movie lovers. Right from the start, the movie kicks off with a high-intensity air assault as a group of American paratroopers are dropped into enemy territory.

Their plane is hit, forcing them to jump out, with some soldiers dying mid-air or crashing to the ground. The sheer chaos and brutality of this opening scene throw you right into the horrors of war… and the madness that will eventually follow.

After that, we’re thrown into a tense situation where the protagonist, Boyce, is alone and vulnerable, trying to find the rest of his squad. The camera work during the first ten minutes is actually so impressive that you’ll feel like you’re right there with them.

From there, the movie transforms into pure action, with some lighter comedic moments as the group tries to make sense of the madness, before diving into full-on horror in the final act, where we finally see the horrifying creations.

It’s tough to pin down one genre for “Overlord,” but a few things are certain: it’s thrilling, brutal, and wild. And that’s all the convincing you need.

I’m confident that anyone who loves “28 Days Later” will find something to enjoy in “Overlord.” Both movies are gritty, relentless and so intense that you’ll probably hide behind your hands when the action ramps up. Even though “Overlord” is set among a war there’s enough horror here to satisfy fans of Danny Boyle’s post-apocalyptic thriller.

The explosive action shots and constant tension are all impressively executed for a movie that clocks in under two hours (and one that embraces its B-movie roots).

The plot of “Overlord” doesn’t demand your full attention either, meaning you can simply enjoy the ride without overthinking. That’s what matters most when you want to sit down and enjoy something thrilling.

So if you’re curious to watch it (and I urge you to), “Overlord” is streaming for free on Pluto TV until March 31. There will be ads, but not enough to disrupt your viewing experience. You can also stream these thriller movies for free on Prime Video.

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There’s something really special about a psychological thriller that completely messes with your mind. The kind that keeps you second-guessing every detail, pulling the rug out from under you just when you think you’ve got it figured out.

One movie from the last few years that still lingers in my mind is “I See You,” and it’s currently streaming for free on Pluto TV.

“I See You” is one of those rare thrillers that’s best experienced with as little knowledge as possible. Going in blind allows the movie to work its magic, but I understand that some people need a little context before pressing play.

The story follows a detective investigating the unsettling disappearance of a young boy. But beneath the surface, there’s a much darker truth waiting to be uncovered.

Of course, I won’t spoil anything, but trust me when I say “I See You” is not the movie you think it is. The twists are so cleverly executed that a second viewing makes the experience even better.

Right now, you can watch this mind-twisting thriller for free, and if you love a story packed with shocking turns, it’s a must-see. But don’t wait too long because “I See You” leaves Pluto TV on March 31.

Here’s why you need to stream it before it’s gone.

What is ‘I See You’ about?

“I See You” follows a small-town detective, Greg Harper (Jon Tenney), as he investigates the disturbing disappearance of a young boy, a case that grows more puzzling by the day.

At the same time, Greg struggles with turmoil in his personal life, as his wife, Jackie (Helen Hunt), recently had an affair, creating deep tension within their family. Their teenage son, Connor (Judah Lewis), resents her betrayal.

As the investigation goes on, strange and seemingly supernatural events begin to plague their home. This includes items going missing, being trapped in rooms, and noises that echo through the house.

The eerie disturbances grow increasingly unnerving, making the family question their own sanity.

Meanwhile, Greg begins to uncover a chilling link between the missing boy and a series of child abductions from years earlier, hinting that the past may hold the key to solving the case.

‘I See You’ is a complex puzzle you’ll enjoy piecing together

Some movies pull you in with a slow burn, letting the tension simmer before the payoff. “I See You” is the perfect example of this.

Even from the opening scene, where a boy on his bike gets kidnapped in broad daylight, you know you’re in for something wild, and actually, very unsettling.

But what makes this movie so fascinating compared to other flicks in the genre isn’t just the chilling mystery at its core or the strange occurrences happening in the family’s home.

It’s the way it completely shifts gears halfway through, almost like you’re watching two different movies seamlessly stitched together.

At first, “I See You” plays like a classic mystery-thriller. There’s a missing kid, a fractured family, and a mysterious presence you can’t quite see. Jackie is trying (and failing) to hold things together after an affair has driven a wedge between her and her son, Connor.

Meanwhile, her husband Greg is investigating a case that feels disturbingly familiar. The movie sets you up to expect a certain kind of story, one that’s tense, dramatic and full of quiet dread.

Then, without warning, it completely flips the script. What started as a tense thriller turns into something far darker, with a shift in perspective that completely redefines everything you thought you understood.

If there’s one thing “I See You” isn’t relying on, it’s standout performances. Helen Hunt and Jon Tenney do a fine job in their roles, but there’s nothing particularly memorable about their acting. In a different movie, that might be a problem, but here, it’s almost a strength.

The movie isn’t trying to dazzle you with incredible performances or deeply emotional character arcs. Instead, it keeps you focused on the bigger picture: the shifting perspectives.

That’s where director Adam Randall really shines. He understands that “I See You” isn’t about any one character but about the story itself, the way it twists and turns. Just when you think you have a handle on what’s happening, another reveal changes everything.

And these aren’t cheap twists thrown in for shock value either since they’re carefully woven into the movie’s structure, making every revelation feel earned.

By the time you reach the final act, you’re too hooked to look away. You have to know how it all ends. It’s that clever narrative direction that makes “I See You” so compelling, even if you don’t care as much about the characters.

Stream ‘I See You’ for free on Pluto TV

If you haven’t watched “I See You” yet, now is the perfect time to fix that. This mind-twisting thriller is currently streaming for free on Pluto TV, but it won’t be there forever.

Before it disappears into the shadows and finds another streaming home sometime in the future, take the opportunity to experience its eerie twists and clever storytelling for yourself.

Yes, there will be a few ads, but not enough to pull you out of the viewing experience. And trust me, once the story starts unfolding, you won’t even want to look away.

So, if you’re in the mood for a thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last moment, don’t wait too long. Stream “I See You” for free on Pluto TV while you still can (remember it leaves on March 31).

If you’re not convinced, you can stream these thriller movies for free on Prime Video now. Prime Video also got one of the best sci-fi thrillers ever, and it's already crashed the top 10.

Otherwise, stream "I See You" on Pluto TV now.

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Anthony Mackie has been on a roll lately with movies like “Elevation” and the new “Captain America: Brave New World,” so it only feels right to shine a light on one of his most overlooked projects.

“Synchronic” is the movie in question. This is one of those sci-fi thrillers that gets under your skin in the best way possible. It’s trippy, unsettling, and packed with mind-bending twists that will probably stick with you for some time. Yet, it unfortunately flew under the radar during its theatrical release in 2020, and it’s one I didn’t discover until recently.

Now, thanks to Pluto TV (one of the best free streaming services), this overlooked sci-fi flick is finally getting another chance in the spotlight, and you can stream it for free in the U.S. That means no subscriptions or rental fees, just pure, reality-warping sci-fi goodness. If you’re a fan of movies that distort your brain cells just a little, “Synchronic” is an absolute must-watch.

If you want to go in blind for the full experience, stop reading now and head over to Pluto TV. But if you need a little more convincing before diving in, here’s what makes “Synchronic” one of Anthony Mackie’s most overlooked movies to date.

What is ‘Synchronic’ about?

“Synchronic” follows two New Orleans paramedics, Steve (Anthony Mackie) and Dennis (Jamie Dornan), who encounter a series of bizarre, gruesome deaths linked to a new synthetic drug called Synchronic.

As they investigate, Steve discovers that Synchronic has time-traveling properties. It sends users back in time, but where and when they land depends on where they take the drug. The stakes rise when Dennis's teenage daughter, Brianna (Ally Ioannides), goes missing after taking the drug.

Realizing she could be trapped in another time period, Steve begins experimenting with Synchronic, testing how long the trips last and how he can control where he ends up.

‘Synchronic’ is a visual treat packed with emotion

I went into “Synchronic” not really knowing what to expect, but I definitely didn’t think the visuals would end up being my favorite part. This movie not only messes with your mind but also looks incredible while doing it, and that’s all thanks to director Aaron Moorhead having a knack for such things. His distinct visual style is one I’ve come to love, especially after seeing his other sci-fi flicks, “The Endless” and “Something in the Dirt.”

The very wild premise brings “Synchronic” to life with stunning cinematography and creative visuals that make the whole time travel experience feel eerie and beautiful. One of the most striking scenes is when Mackie’s character Steve takes the pill for the first time and watches his surroundings morph, creating a mesmerizing effect that feels like looking through a kaleidoscope. That’s probably one of the tamer sequences as things get pretty chaotic later on.

Honestly, I don’t think “Synchronic” would be half as effective without these visual effects. Moorhead uses light, shadow, and surreal color shifts to make everything feel otherworldly yet oddly grounded at the same time. This is why I love the drug-induced time travel sequences. They’re genuinely hypnotic, so much so that it almost feels like your brain cells are being distorted.

I can only imagine how impressive this would’ve been on the big screen and I’m gutted I didn’t get to experience it in theaters when it first came out.

Aside from the visual treats, there’s a lot of emotion packed into this movie. Mackie’s performance is what makes the narrative so interesting because his character isn’t a hero. He’s dealing with real struggles, including an incredible sense of loneliness. So when he starts using Synchronic, it’s a desperate, last-ditch effort to make a difference. That emotional depth is what hooks you.

The more Steve experiments with the drug, the more reckless he becomes, pushing himself further with each trip through time. And you can see how obsessive he becomes when his friendship with Dornan’s character Dennis starts to crack.

Even though Dornan has minimal screen time compared to Mackie, he still manages to portray a broken father who’s grieving the sudden disappearance of his daughter, leading to strained conversations with his wife. Even though the pacing feels a little convoluted at times, the emotion keeps things going.

That emotional weight is what makes “Synchronic” so much more than just a trippy sci-fi flick. Beneath the stunning visuals and eerie time-travel mechanics is a deeply human story about purpose and the lengths we go to for the people we care about. Mackie gives one of his best performances here and it’s a shame the movie became so overlooked.

Stream ‘Synchronic’ for free on Pluto TV

There are a lot of sci-fi thrillers out there, but “Synchronic” stands out because it actually does something fresh. The movie takes this wild concept about time travel and grounds it in something deeply personal. If you’ve been impressed by Mackie’s performances as of late, this sci-fi flick is one worth adding to your watchlist. And arguably, it’s much better than “Elevation” and the new “Captain America.”

So if I had to offer one streaming recommendation, “Synchronic” is the movie to watch this week since it’s streaming for free right now on Pluto TV (as long as you can tolerate some ads). It’s a genuinely engaging movie that isn’t afraid to go beyond the usual sci-fi tropes while being a real visual treat.

If you’re still not convinced, check out this action-thriller movie that recently crashed Netflix’s top 10. You can also see our guide on the best movies to watch on Prime Video now.

Stream "Synchronic" for free on Pluto TV. It's also available on Prime Video and Peacock.

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This year, the cost of streaming has skyrocketed, leaving many of us searching for ways to keep our entertainment habits without breaking the bank. While some of the best streaming services offer incredible content, they often come with hefty subscription fees that add up over time. In fact, a report found that subscriptions to the top five ad-free streaming services in the United States now cost roughly $87 per month. That's bound to go up, as YouTube TV is raising its rates in January.

But what if you could enjoy quality streaming for free? As more platforms explore ways to reduce costs for users, there are still a few hidden gems that allow you to stream without paying a dime. Although Amazon has shut down Freevee, one of its free streaming services, there are still plenty of options available to help you cut down on streaming costs. With ad-supported platforms, there’s no shortage of choices to keep you entertained without the monthly subscription burden.

In this article, I’ll share the three best free streaming services that I use almost every day to save money, and they still offer some of the best movies and TV shows.

Tubi

When it comes to the best free streaming service, Tubi is at the top of my list. This ad-supported platform offers an impressive library of movies and TV shows across various genres, all without costing you a penny. Yes, really, it’s completely free (and legal, since that’s a concern among some).

Of course, like any other free TV service, it makes money from advertisements. Those ads run before and during a movie or television show, so you'll definitely be seeing them often. They’re relatively short and infrequent, making the viewing experience far less intrusive than traditional cable TV. It’s a small trade-off for accessing a premium-like streaming experience without paying for a subscription.

What truly sets Tubi apart for me is its commitment to keeping its library fresh and diverse, with exciting updates every month. This December (2024), Tubi has outdone itself by adding an impressive lineup of classics and fan favorites. Those who love action can dive into adrenaline-packed movies like “Kick-Ass” and “Rush Hour”, while thriller lovers can enjoy hits like “Sicario” and the sci-fi vampire epic “Daybreakers”. As a horror fan, I was pleased to see iconic titles like “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” and “Fright Night” join the collection.

Why Tubi is quietly becoming the most exciting streaming service, however, isn’t just its expansive library. It’s also really easy to navigate, and its personalized recommendations make finding new content actually enjoyable. The service also allows you to create a free account to save your watchlist and pick up right where you left off. So, if you’re trying to cut down on streaming costs, Tubi is proof that free streaming can still deliver high-quality entertainment.

Watch free movies and shows on Tubi

Pluto TV

If you’re looking for a free streaming service that replicates the classic cable TV experience, Pluto TV is a standout choice. As one of the best free streaming services available in 2024, Pluto TV combines the familiarity of live TV channels with a decent on-demand library, all without any subscription fees.

Pluto’s live TV feature is its biggest draw. It offers hundreds of channels across a wide range of categories, including news, sports, entertainment, and even niche genres like true crime and classic game shows. Whether you’re in the mood for 24/7 reality TV, dedicated movie marathons, or live news coverage, Pluto TV provides that for free.

In addition to its live programming, Pluto TV also updates its library every month. The streamer recently added one of my favorite sci-fi movies, “Cloverfield,” along with the classic rom-com “13 Going on 30” and the critically acclaimed crime drama “The Godfather 2.” Plus, there’s a bunch of Christmas movies you can stream for free, including “Scrooged,” “A Christmas Carol” and “Home for the Holidays”.

Fellow streaming writer Malcolm McMillan also gave another reason why Pluto is worth signing up for. The streamer recently added a new free channel, Pluto 007, which plays classic “James Bond” movies all day long. So if you’re a bond fan, this is a compelling reason to try the free streaming service.

While Pluto TV is ad-supported, its commercials are well-balanced and don’t overshadow the viewing experience. If you’re looking to cut down on streaming costs while enjoying a cable-like experience and on-demand content, Pluto TV is a strong contender.

Watch free movies and shows on Pluto TV

Plex

Plex is the third free streaming service since it can connect to other platforms. Unlike other services, Plex not only offers a wide range of ad-supported movies, TV shows, and live TV channels but also lets you manage and stream your personal media collection, all in one place.

Plex’s free streaming library includes thousands of movies and shows, from cult classics to underrated gems that are worth discovering. Some of the most popular movies on the streamer right now include “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Nosferatu,” “Better Watch Out,” and “Wind River.” Its recommendations also highlight content you might not easily find on other streaming platforms, making it a great discovery tool for those who need something fresh to watch.

But Plex goes beyond just streaming. If you have your own collection of movies, music, or even home videos, Plex allows you to upload and organize it, creating a personalized media hub (which is what it was originally made for). This feature makes Plex a favorite for those who want to enjoy the convenience of streaming while maintaining access to their own media library.

Again, the ads on Plex are relatively short and well-spaced, making for a viewing experience that’s far less intrusive than traditional TV. Typically, you’ll encounter a few ad breaks during movies or shows, similar to other free streaming services like Tubi or Pluto. Each break generally lasts between 1-2 minutes, with a few ads per break. Plex is essentially a versatile and user-friendly option that offers the best of both worlds.

Watch free movies and shows on Plex

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Pluto TV is one of the best free streaming services, constantly adding new channels of free ad-supported shows and movies. Earlier this month it added 14 new shows and now it's bringing back a channel that might just be my new favorite.

As of this month, Pluto 007 is officially back on Pluto TV. This free streaming channel is all Bond — James Bond — all day long.

Sure, you could check out how to watch the James Bond movies in order. Or, if you're like me, you go to your James Bond Blu-ray box set and just start from the beginning. But with Pluto bringing back Pluto 007, now all you need to do is queue up the app for the free streaming service and start watching.

Everything you can watch on Pluto 007

With Pluto 007, you now have two ways to binge-watch all the James Bond you can handle — for free — as long as you're okay with some ads.

First, there's the free streaming channel Pluto 007. If you head to this channel, you can watch a 24-hour feed of James Bond movies without having to do anything else. Just sit back and enjoy.

For those like me who remember the "007 Days of Christmas" marathons from the 90s and 2000s, this viewing experience should be a pleasant blast of nostalgia. I may just queue up Pluto 007 over Thanksgiving weekend myself between NFL livestreams and think back to binge-watching Bond movies on Spike TV with a belly full of turkey. Sure, I could wait for Christmas, but ... why would I?

For those who don't want to waste time suffering through Bond movies they don't like (I'm not big on Roger Moore), don't worry. Pluto is also offering all the movies from Pluto 007 free on-demand. Again, all you need to do is be willing to put up with some ads.

There are some omissions. While Pluto 007 offers 20 James Bond movies free with ads — and Pluto TV 007 en Español offers them in Spanish — not every Bond movie is available on this channel.

Unsurprisingly, "Never Say Never Again" starring Sean Connery is not available. This is just a remake of "Thunderball" that arose from a legal battle between Eon and writer Kevin McClory.

Surprisingly though, you cannot watch "From Russia with Love" or "Goldfinger," two of Sean Connery's best performances as James Bond. You also cannot watch "Casino Royale" (2006), "Skyfall" or "Spectre," all of which star Daniel Craig as Bond. This is likely due to a rights or licensing issue of some kind, but not one I have any knowledge about.

More surprisingly, you can watch "Casino Royale" (1967) starring David Niven as Bond on-demand from Pluto TV. It's just not part of Pluto 007. This movie was produced by Columbia Pictures and is separate from the Eon-produced Bond movies, which famously made their version of the film in 2006 debuting Daniel Craig as James Bond. As I already mentioned, unfortunately, that 2006 movie is not available on Pluto TV.

Still, despite these caveats, Pluto 007 gives you 20 James Bond movies to watch right now, for free. Here's everything you can watch on Pluto 007.

• "Dr. No" (1962)
• "Thunderball" (1965)
• "You Only Live Twice" (1967)
• "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (1969)
• "Diamonds Are Forever" (1971)
• "Live and Let Die" (1973)
• "The Man with the Golden Gun" (1974)
• "The Spy Who Loved Me" (1977)
• "Moonraker" (1979)
• "For Your Eyes Only" (1981)
• "Octopussy" (1983)
• "A View to a Kill" (1985)
• "The Living Daylights" (1987)
• "Licence to Kill" (1989)
• "GoldenEye" (1995)
• "Tomorrow Never Dies" (1997)
• "The World Is Not Enough" (1999)
• "Die Another Day" (2002)
• "Quantum of Solace" (2008)
• "No Time to Die" (2021)

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Pluto TV has announced a partnership with NBCUniversal to bring several TV shows to the streaming service in Canada and the United Kingdom, along with at least two new genre channels, starting November 1. This cements it as one of the best free streaming services, even if its availability in the U.S. is spotty.

In Canada, as reported by Streaming Media, Pluto TV is adding every season of the long-running "Will & Grace." The original run, from 1998 to 2006, was eight seasons long, with an additional three-season run starting in 2017 and ending in 2020. The show will air on the More Pluto TV Comedy channel alongside other NBC shows like "Becker," "Wings," and Judd Hirsch-led "Dear John."

Across the pond, Brits are getting access to the cult-classic "Psych," a silly who-done-it-of-the-week show that ran for eight seasons on the USA Network. That show is being added to the new Pluto TV Comedy Drama channel. Other shows added to the new channel include "Scorpion," "The Millers" and "The Odd Couple."

Both countries are getting two new channels, Pluto TV 80s Action and Pluto TV Sci-Fi.

With the NBCUniversal partnership, the 80s Action channel will feature 80s classics like "The A-Team," "Miami Vice" and "Knight Rider." The Sci-Fi channel will get shows like "Quantum Leap" and "Sliders." The press release also mentions "Battlestar Galactica" but does not clarify if that means the original 1978 show or the 2004 Ronald D. Moore remake. NBCUniversal owns both, so perhaps both will show up.

In a press release, Pluto TV's Executive Vice President and International General manager said, "Partnerships are our superpower, and collaborating with industry leaders like NBCUniversal not only brings legendary titles to our platform, but also helps strengthen the FAST business, giving our fans access to the content they love. With a strong affinity for comedy among our audiences in the UK and Canada, we’re thrilled to deliver a treasure trove of comedic content.”

For those unaware, Pluto TV, owned by Paramount, is a free streaming service that features live channels that show blocks of a show like "Will & Grace" on specific genre channels. The service does offer some on-demand episodes and movies.

As far as we can tell, Pluto TV does not offer any shows mentioned earlier outside of Canada and the UK.

If you are a Pluto TV user, you can use a VPN to access out-of-region shows.

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“Crawl” is one of those disaster thrillers that hits a little closer to home for me. At its core, beyond the intense alligator attacks and relentless storm, the movie is about the bond between a father and daughter — a relationship that’s at the heart of my own life. This is why it’s one of my favorites, and it’s sadly leaving one of the best free streaming services this month. 

If you’re like me and find disaster movies somewhat comforting, “Crawl” is one you shouldn’t miss. This intense movie centers around a competitive swimmer and her father as they fight to survive in their flooded Florida home during a severe hurricane, all while being hunted by vicious alligators. It’s a tense, survival thriller that deserves to be experienced at least once. 

Pluto TV is unfortunately dropping this disaster flick this month though, so if you haven’t seen it yet, now’s the perfect time. Here’s everything to know about “Crawl” and why you should watch it right now…

‘Crawl’ is a claustrophobic nightmare with plenty of thrills

“Crawl” takes place during a Category 5 hurricane, as Haley (Kaya Scodelario) returns to her childhood home in Florida to check on her father, Dave (Barry Pepper). When she finds him injured and trapped in the crawl space beneath the house, their fight for survival begins. Rising floodwaters and a pack of aggressive alligators make the space their prison, and so Haley has to use her professional swimming skills to navigate such a cramped environment. 

The premise might sound a bit out there — alligators hunting people? But “Crawl” is far more intense than it seems at first glance. Yes, the alligators are an ever-present danger, lurking beneath the water, but the real terror comes from never knowing when or where they’ll strike. When Haley first goes down into the crawl space you can almost feel these predators watching, and it isn’t until the moment she first encounters one when you’re like, oh so it’s this kind of movie. Once the action really kicks in, you won’t be able to settle down again. 

Aside from Haley's close calls with the alligators, “Crawl” sets itself apart from other disaster flicks through the heart that drives its story. Haley is fighting for her life while also trying to save her father and their loyal dog, Sugar, despite the overwhelming danger. 

I resonate with this character on a much more personal level because I know I’d do exactly what she does (maybe with a little less flair). Her commitment to saving her dad reminds me of the strong bond I share with mine, which is why this intense thriller works so well. I always appreciate and remember disaster movies that make the effort to develop the characters, rather than using them as fresh meat (some characters are used for this purpose in the movie though).

Of course, “Crawl” may not be the best movie ever, and it does have a few weaker moments when it comes to the special effects, especially during fast-paced action scenes with the CGI alligators (which is understandable since they obviously couldn’t use real ones). But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth watching. Despite its flaws, I had an absolute blast with this movie when I first watched it, and it's still great fun on a repeat watch. 

“Crawl” was very well-received after its release in 2019, as it currently holds a solid score of 84% on Rotten Tomatoes. Hollywood Reporter also reported that Paramount Pictures confirmed a sequel is in the works due to its surprising success. “Crawl 2” will feature a “new cast and a new location, in this case, the more urban dangers of New York City.” 

A sequel might not be needed, but knowing how fun “Crawl” is, I'm sure it'll be just as entertaining. Anything to do with disasters and horror will always go straight to my watchlist.

You need to stream ‘Crawl’ on Pluto TV

“Crawl” is currently streaming for free on Pluto TV, a service that offers a wide range of movies and shows (keep in mind there will be ads). But don’t wait too long — the movie is set to leave the platform on Thursday, October 31 (yes that's right, on Halloween). So, if you haven’t experienced this intense, claustrophobic thriller yet, now’s your chance to watch it before it’s gone!

I can guarantee you’ll be on edge from start to finish, as “Crawl” knows how to deliver a relentless nightmare. If tight spaces also make you uneasy, this movie will turn your worst fear into reality. It’s a very fun and entertaining watch, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a disaster flick in the lead-up to Halloween.

Need more? Check out some of the most shocking true crime documentaries or watch one of the best dark thrillers also streaming for free. 

Stream "Crawl" on Pluto TV right now. You can also buy or rent it on Amazon.

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We've all been there. You're sitting on the couch, thinking about starting a new TV show, but you don't feel like paying for yet another streaming service. What if we told you that you don't have to? Not when there are free platforms with tons of content to stream.

Pluto TV is one of the best free streaming services available and is backed by Paramount, so it has many of the series you'll find on Paramount's paid offerings — though they typically only offer a sampling, not the full run. Still, that means you can enjoy a TV series without having to dig deep into your bank account. If you don't mind watching a few commercials, you'll have a vast library of free shows and movies to enjoy at your leisure. Here are five of our favorite choices for the best shows on Pluto TV right now.

'Hannibal'

Criminal profiler Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) uses his well of empathy to understand the darkest corners of the human psyche. Tasked with capturing complex serial killers for the FBI, Graham finds himself needing a little help with the emotional toll this takes on him. Enter Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen), a psychiatrist whose insights into the nature of evil help to give Graham an edge. But Lecter has plenty of secrets of his own, drawing Graham into a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Watch on Pluto TV

'Top Gear' 

Jump into the driver's seat with this British car show that's unlike any that you've ever seen. Starring Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, the early seasons of this high-octane series explore car reviews, news, hilarious games, races between the hosts, and other challenges involving souped-up cars and everyday wheels. Pluto TV has the classic host lineup and over 20 seasons to rev your engines, though you'll be too busy laughing to care too much about what the trio actually thinks of the cars. 

Watch on Pluto TV

'Sabrina the Teenage Witch'

Sabrina Spellman (Melissa Joan Hart) is a teenager who discovers she possesses magical powers on her 16th birthday. Under the guidance of her aunts Hilda (Caroline Rhea) and Zelda (Beth Broderick) as well as Salem (Nick Bakay), the world-dominating witch-turned-cat, Sabrina learns how to be a witch while heading into high school at the same time. Each episode follows Sabrina as she finds herself tangled up in high school drama as she learns the ropes of her newfound abilities. She also has to find a way to make sure the mortals in the real world never find out her magical secret. 

Watch on Pluto TV

'Farscape' 

Astronaut John Crichton (Ben Browder) is sent to the furthest reaches of the universe after a test flight on his spacecraft Farscape I. When he finds himself in the middle of a heated interstellar conflict, Crichton allies with a motley crew of rebel outcasts on board the living spaceship Moya. As they navigate through unknown galaxies, evading hostile forces and encountering strange new worlds, Crichton searches for a pathway home – though he finds friendship and even love while on the way there. 

Watch on Pluto TV

'Sister, Sister'

Tia Landry (Tia Mowry) and Tamera Campbell (Tamera Mowry) are twins separated at birth who stumble upon each other by chance. They soon discover they're not only identical in appearance but also share a bond that defies their vastly different upbringings. Tia is the brainy twin from inner-city Detroit, and Tamera is the free-spirited twin from the suburbs. The pair decide to unite their families under one roof. Tia's adoptive mom Lisa (Jackée Harry brings her seamstress skills and big-city vibe and Tamera's adoptive dad Ray (Tim Reid) has some stability for the family with his limousine business. Together, the reunited twins and their new family navigate the ins and outs of living together as a complete unit for the first time in their lives.

Watch on Pluto TV

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To ring in the new year, Netflix is treating subscribers to a collection of must-watch movies — including a real-life-inspired survival thriller, Society of the Snow, that's already shaping up to be one of the first blockbusters of 2024. 

Society of the Snow debuted on Netflix last week (Thursday, Jan. 4), and it's already one of the most top watched movies on the platform — an impressive feat in itself, but even more so for a non-English film lacking any major A-list stars in its cast list. 

The latest from Spanish filmmaker J.A. Bayona (The Impossible, The Orphanage), it's based on the harrowing true story of the Uruguayan 1972 Andes flight disaster. After a plane chartered to take a Uruguayan rugby team to Chile crashes in the heart of the Andes mountains, the surviving members are stranded in a desolate tundra with no rescue imminent. They battle to survive while dealing with freezing temperatures, intense hunger, and extreme isolation. And when food supplies dwindle, they are forced to consider the unthinkable to stay alive long enough to be found.  

If you're looking for more terrifying tales of survival to add to your watch list, we've rounded up some of the best movies like Society of the Snow that you won't want to miss. 

Alive

Like Society of the Snow, Alive also tells the story of the 1972 Andes flight crash. While Society of the Snow deserves credit for authenticity in casting Uruguayan and Argentinian actors, Alive provides a solid, Americanized popcorn version with Hollywood stars like Ethan Hawke and Josh Hamilton playing the survivors. 

Alive doesn't shy away from all the harrowing details of survival, including the decision to eat the dead passengers to survive one of the most hostile and inaccessible environments on the planet. Much like the compliments given to Society of the Snow's J. A. Bayona, Alive director Frank Marshall was similarly praised for his handling of the story and staying true to the chilling real-world events without falling into sensationalism.

Rent or buy on Amazon and Apple TV

127 Hours

Directed by Danny Boyle (28 Days Later, Slumdog Millionaire), 127 Hours details the real-life inspired story of canyoneer Aron Ralston and how he survived after getting his arm trapped under a boulder in an isolated slot canyon in Bluejohn Canyon, Utah.

Based on Ralston's memoir Between a Rock and a Hard Place, the film centers on how Ralston (played by James Franco), in his increasing desperation to get free and seek help, focuses on love for his family as a motivator to keep going. In a last-ditch effort, he fashions a tourniquet from the insulation tubing in his water bottle and resorts to cutting his right arm off to free himself — a gruesome scene that mirrors the real Ralston's harrowing plight to survive. 

Rent or buy on Amazon and Apple TV

Touching the Void

Touching the Void is a gripping documentary-style film that recounts the terrifying story of two friends who in 1985 set out to climb Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes via the West Face, at the time an unaccomplished feat by any mountaineer. The Society of the Snow survivors are stranded in the same mountain range, which gives you an idea of just how perilous and unpredictable the conditions can be. 

Directed by Kevin Macdonald (State of Play, The Last King of Scotland), the film combines dramatizations with interviews with the two climbers, Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, to construct a powerful exploration of survival, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity. After successfully reaching the summit, their descent takes a turn for the worse when Simpson breaks his leg. Yates makes the tough call to cut the rope connecting them, believing it to be the only chance for either of them to make it back alive. Miraculously, Simpson survives the fall and begins the arduous journey back to base camp against all odds.

Stream it on Pluto TV or Tubi

Gravity

Let's take a break from the real-world inspired stories for a moment and turn to a purely fictional survival story that's nonetheless as incredible and nail-biting. Earning a Best Director Oscar for Alfonso Cuarón, Gravity ranks among the most visually stunning science-fiction movies ever made. In fact, its out-of-this-world special effects are so detailed, you’ll swear Sandra Bullock and George Clooney actually traveled to space to shoot this one. 

The thriller sees Bullock play Dr. Ryan Stone, a medical engineer on their first space mission alongside Lieutenant Matt Kowalski (Clooney), a veteran astronaut counting his days to retirement after this one last expedition. It all goes off without a hitch until disaster strikes during a routine spacewalk and the duo’s shuttle is destroyed. Stranded with no way to contact Earth, Ryan and Matt face near-impossible odds of survival, and to return home they may first have to venture further into deep space.  

Watch it now on Netflix

Everest

Everest recounts the true story of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster that defined the mountain's deadliest season ever at the time. Expeditions from two rival mountaineering companies led by Rob Hall (Jason Clarke) and Scott Fischer (Jake Gyllenhaal) set out to climb the summit only to face setback after setback in an unforgiving landscape where any mistake could prove deadly. 

The crews confront brutal, icy weather conditions that result in the tragic deaths of eight individuals, including Hall, who helped popularize commercial Everest missions to begin with. And, just as in Society of the Snow, Everest uses cinematography techniques to put audiences in the frostbitten shoes of the climbers, offering an unflinching front-row seat to their agonizing race for survival.  

Watch it now on Peacock

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The rising world of free streaming services offers a solution to many folks, myself included. Even though I frequently write about television and movies, I subscribe to an excessive amount of paid streaming services. 

I currently shell out for many of the best streaming services, including Max, Netflix and Hulu. I've even been known to take on a trial or short subscription to watch a specific film or series. I also pay for Amazon Prime, which comes with about eleventy billion hours of content. Oh, and I still also have old-fashioned cable TV.

All of that got put on pause, though, when I was challenged. Could I put my regular paid viewing habits aside for a week and only watch content on the best free streaming services for a whole week? Here’s what happened.

Day 1: Tubi delivers on documentaries and movies

On my first day of using only free streaming services, I was working on an article that recommends the seven best movies like Mean Girls. I noticed that The Craft, one of the selections, is on Tubi, so I put it on in the background while writing. Ideally, I would have just streamed it on Max without commercials, but it’s still a fun one to get for free if you don’t have a Max subscription.

Later, I dove into Tubi’s decent documentary section, my favorite genre of film by far. I’m currently working on the comeback issue of my small-batch food magazine starring actor Danny Trejo, so I began with his documentary Inmate #1: The Rise of Danny Trejo (2019). Here Trejo, his family and friends offer deep insight into his remarkable life path from San Quentin inmate to drug counselor to actor and now restaurateur. 

I also enjoyed watching The Ice King (2018), a documentary about the late English figure skater John Curry. The Olympic champion was known as the first openly gay athlete in the sport, but the documentary reveals that he was outed by a journalist Curry told “off the record.” Curry succumbed to AIDS in 1994, and The Ice King captures the fear and isolation of that deadly era for the disease. Those who enjoy Johnny Weir’s contemporary ice skating commentary will see the lineage from Curry’s notorious candor and artistry, as Weir says himself in the film.

Tubi also has some intriguing original documentaries. I caught Vice News Presents - Sold Out: Ticketmaster And The Resale Racket, which shows how some of the people who invented ticket bots are now working with the company they used to target, and I may come back one day to watch their Griselda Blanco doc Queen of Cocaine.

Day 2: Freevee is Amazon's Prime Video alternative

I kept the documentary fest going over at Amazon’s free streaming service Freevee. The first film to catch my eye was Sad Vacation: The Last Days of Sid and Nancy (2016), which is also available on Tubi. Possible friends and acquaintances of the Sex Pistols’ Sid Vicious and his girlfriend Nancy Spungen resurface old conspiracy theories, while a photographer who snuck into the murder scene shows his stark, bleak work. The couple was glamorized in a 1986 biopic starring Gary Oldman, and this takes a lot of steam out of that.

Navigating Freevee seems like a bit of a challenge, but I still found stuff to watch. After Sad Vacation I saw the tail end of a live broadcast of Blitzed: the ‘80s Blitz Kids Story (2020), which takes a look at the London club that brought Boy George, Spandau Ballet, Ultravox and more brilliant, synth-driven New Romantic groups to the world in the years following the punk couple’s passing in 1979. It was an awesome double-bill, if incomplete. This doc is available to rent on Prime Video, but I’ll keep looking for it to pop up on Freevee.

Amazon Freevee will add almost two dozen new free channels to the service in the coming months: 12 channels from MGM and 11 channels from Warner Bros. Discovery. These additions should only solidify Freevee’s top position as one of the best free streaming services.

Editor's note: Freevee also offers original programming, such as the mock reality show Jury Duty.

Day 3: The Roku Channel fed a craving

As an amateur sushi maker, I knew exactly what I wanted to watch on The Roku Channel: the new original series Morimoto’s Sushi Master (2023), a Top-Chef-esque game show hosted by restaurateur and Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto for sushi chefs who want to break the rules. 

I saw all six episodes in one sitting and loved how honest yet fun and kind Morimoto is with all the contestants and how beautifully the food is shot. It was a little bit strange to see how many challenges didn’t directly involve making sushi, but it was probably a correct calculation to mix it up a bit for a general audience. The competitor I rooted for the most ended up winning, and that was very satisfying.

Day 4: Pluto TV is full of throwback content

Pluto TV is the home of many a  retro TV channel, letting you watch the likes of Three’s Company, Baywatch, 90210, Degrassi and The Love Boat. So, prepare to throw it way, way back if you’re browsing here. 

I ended up watching a couple of “live” (read: linear) broadcasts of The Love Boat, and caught a fun performance by The Temptations and the Dionne Warwick version of the theme song that appeared in the final season in 1986. 

That season also featured the gratuitous jiggle dancing of the Love Boat Mermaids, featuring a young Teri Hatcher. It was all quite weird, but sometimes you need that kind of viewing experience.

Day 5: Crackle didn't pop for me

Crackle (formerly owned by Sony) is now owned by Chicken Soup for the Soul, which I learned also has pet food in addition to self-help books. I’m going through Vanderpump Rules withdrawal right now, and would normally watch at least one Bravo show in a week, so I watched a few episodes of the Crackle Original series Men of West Hollywood (2022) for a quick fix instead. 

It’s not great, and I bowed out before the episode where the Men were searching out “Scrotox” shots, but if you like seeing the sights of WeHo and silly dramz, it could be worth a moment of the first episode, which is entitled Pretty People Take Pictures and Party.

Day 6: Sling Freestream lets you sample premium shows

Sling TV, one of the best cable TV alternatives, has a free sister-service, Sling Freestream. One of its highlights is that you can watch the first episode of a series from a paid streaming site for free, so I finally watched the pilot episode of Yellowjackets (2021). 

Don't tell the show's cannibalistic characters, but don’t I envision paying to watch the rest of the series, that said, I did enjoy its pace and music. I recently watched a ton of movies like Mean Girls, and it totally fit the vibes. If only ever so more unhinged.

I clicked around on some of Sling Freestream’s live channels, but noticed a weird bug where I didn't actually watch the content that I clicked on. For instance, I tried to choose a broadcast of Bruce Lee’s Fist of Fury and got some special about Elvis Presley instead.

Day 7: What exactly is Xumo?

I had a hard time figuring out if there’s a certain vibe or character to Xumo, and it took me a while to find something I wanted to watch. What struck me the most is that you can access live network news broadcasts from major cities around the country, which might be interesting to sample some day. 

The best show I watched was a few episodes of Betty White’s Pet Set (1971-1972), another show I didn’t know about before finding it here. White’s improv chops were amazing, and that is hammered home when she interacts with unpredictable animals including an anteater, a baby elephant and Carol Burnett’s skittish dog, Phoebe.

Analysis: What did I learn this week?

After only watching free streaming services for a week, I feel overwhelmed with choices and have a healthy list of more TV shows and movies that I want to watch. I generally don’t mind watching content with ads, but these services didn't quite match what I'm used to.

Most, if not all, of the free streaming services I tried out dropped commercials at seemingly random and inopportune times. That’s extra weird with TV shows that have natural break points that aren’t utilized on these sites. Moving forward, The Roku Channel, Tubi and Freevee will probably be part of my regular rotation. I still probably spend too much on paid subscriptions, and it may be time to reevaluate that.

Was there anything I missed, only watching free TV? I actually didn’t really have any FOMO because my Bravo shows are now out of season, and I watched a bit of that West Hollywood show.

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Free movie and TV streamer Pluto TV is about to look a little more personal, thanks to an update that should make it feel more like some of the best streaming services.

This news comes from Cord Cutter News, quoting Amy Kuessner, Paramount Streaming's executive VP of content strategy and global partnerships on the StreamTV Show. Kuessner explained that Pluto TV will get a new user interface that shakes up the home screen next month (July 2023).

Kuessner didn't provide slides or any visuals, but she did say that the home screen will start to mix its live TV and on demand content. It will also utilize algorithms to suggest shows and movies that users will prefer, which is something Max is starting to do more of throughout its app.

Currently, Pluto TV divides Live TV and On Demand sections, presenting former first and the latter as a tab you can click on. Pluto's home screen also shows one of its 'live' linear channels when you open it, something that most services don't do.  

Just don't expect this on all devices on July 1. Kuessner specified that the new Pluto will hit select (unspecified) devices in July, and it will spread to more devices throughout 2023.

Analysis: Pluto TV evolves in the rise of ad-supported streaming services 

Right now, as reports of Prime Video's ad-supported tier bubble up, the best free streaming services aren't the only ones with commercials. Pluto's move to revitalize its interface comes as others are encroaching on its turf.

Now, Netflix, Max, Disney Plus, Peacock and Paramount Plus all have ad-supported tiers, and it sounds like Pluto is changing to be more like those. The big question we have is how much Pluto will deviate from its cable TV-like design that turns on a channel, and how much it will be like the above streaming services.

The big risk, of course, is becoming like one of those streaming services that push a carousel of content that users don't actually want. I've argued that Netflix in particular loves to push content at me that I don't actually care about. The more Pluto's redesign hits the nail on the head with its algorithm-generated recommendations, the less they'll have to worry about this though.

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Amazon is rebuilding the traditional channel grid one batch at a time, as a ton of free channels are coming to Amazon Freevee in the near future. And today's news is just the tip of a huge commitment to free TV channels, as Amazon's declared it will increase its free, ad-supported TV (FAST) offering by 75% this year.

Today (June 12) Amazon Freevee announced that it will add 12 MGM channels and 11 Warner Bros. Discovery channels. These channels will arrive "over the next few months," and complement the more than 280 FAST channels on Freevee already.

MGM's channels will include linear streams devoted to specific shows, such The Pink Panther, Stargate, Green Acres and The Outer Limits. These are made for fans who just want to want one of their favorite shows, but don't want to pick an episode.

Amazon listed the following thematic channels: MGM Presents, MGM Presents: Action and MGM Presents: Sci-Fi. It didn't give a whole lot of detail about what titles to expect, only listing Capote and Red Dawn. 

As for the WBD titles, no channel names were mentioned, but expect to see ad-supported streams for Discovery programming and WBD studio content. Amazon listed Cake Boss, Extreme Couponing, Ghost Brothers, Paranormal Lockdown, Say Yes to the Dress and Long Lost Family.

Oh, and Amazon also mentioned a recent deal for 10 FAST channels coming from Lionsgate, as well as nine recently-added titles such as Nashville, Are We There Yet?, Anger Management and HerSphere. A Ghost Hunters channel is launching soon in the "coming weeks."

Amazon's seemingly finding free TV channels in the space between its sofa cushions, as it also listed the following titles coming this month: Amazon Movies, Judge & Jury, QVC, HSN, Tastemade en Español, The Big Dish, USA Today and USA Today Sports. with all of these channels, Freevee is definitely one of the best free streaming services.

Analysis: Expect more ad-supported Amazon streaming options

Freevee's building a grid to rival Pluto TV and The Roku Channel, but FAST channels are only one half of its TV with ads play. 

A report of a cheaper Prime Video with ads tier emerged last week, suggesting that Amazon's looking to join the new status quo of streaming. While it offers tons of great shows and movies for free and on-demand with Freevee, this would mark the first time Amazon put ads inside of its more lauded shows such as The Boys and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

That tier would exist for subscribers who don't have the need for Prime but also think $8.99 per month is too much for Amazon's shows and movies. One hopes they'll also make Prime Video's library of on-demand movies (including my 7 favorite new to Prime Video movies) and shows a part of this ad-supported network. 

For that to happen smoothly, licensing would need to be smoother than it was for Netflix with ads — which has missing movies and shows.

How to watch Freevee online

While it's available through the Prime Video app — and on the web — Freevee is also available as a standalone-app on some of the best streaming devices. Those include Amazon Fire TV devices and Roku devices. It's also on smart TVs, iOS, Android, Xbox and PS5.

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Like free stuff? Google has announced a partnership with streaming services Tubi, Plex and Haystack News to bring more than 800 free live channels to its smart TV operating system, Google TV.

You can find these options the redesigned Live tab with the rest of your live channel services, including premium ones like YouTube TV or Sling TV.

This effort from Google aims to revamp its Live tab to make it a one-stop shop for live TV options that can rival the best streaming services. In this tab, you'll find free TV channels featuring shows shows like Westworld, Law & Order: SVU and The Walking Dead along with news channels like ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX.

It's also adding a new TV guide feature on the left rail that lets you browse by genre or see what's trending. Any shows or channels saved to your "Favorites" are pinned at the top. 

Google claims this latest update makes Google TV the platform offering the most free TV channels within one electronic programming guide. The company said its new live TV expansion rolls out today in the United States for all Google TV devices, including its Chromecast with Google TV and smart TVs with Google TV built-in. It plans to bring the new TV guide and free channels to all eligible Android TV devices "later this year."

What shows and movies are coming to Google TV?

The 800 channels from Tubi, Plex and Haystack News join Google TV's existing lineup of Pluto TV channels. With this latest move, Google TV is quickly becoming a leading hub of the best free streaming services available today. 

For those unfamiliar, Plex started as a media server, but has since expanded its offering with movies and TV as well as the ability to connect to other free streaming services. We previously named Plex one of the best streaming apps when it added a new Discovery mode and a Watchlist to make it easier to manage all the server-hosted content and its free catalogue of movies and TV shows.

There you'll find free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels, which collect shows such as Baywatch, NBC's Hannibal and Doctor Who into linear TV "channels." Paid Plex subscribers also have access to community-focused features, like adding friends to see what they’re watching and how they’re rating shows and movies.

Tubi is an ad-supported free streaming service owned by Fox with a library of over 20,000 older TV shows and movies from partnerships with Hollywood big names like Paramount, Lionsgate, Warner Bros. and MGM. In terms of content, you'll find a bit of everything.

As far as TV shows go, Tubi has a hefty offering of reality and True Crime content such as TMZ, Dateline, Hell's Kitchen, Duck Dynasty and Forensic Files. Movie-wise, you won't find the latest and greatest hits, but there's plenty of old-school classics and nostalgia fodder. Tubi also has a robust selection of anime that could rival Netflix, including newer releases and fan favorites from the '90s and 2000s. Check out our full Tubi explainer for more details.

Haystack News hosts live channels from local, national and international news outlets, including Reuters, Al Jazeera, CBS, ABC and CNN. 

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Yes, even Samsung competes in the free TV and movies market. The rising world of free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) is heating up, and now as Roku adds more new free TV channels and rival Pluto TV as well, Samsung is bolstering its lineup in Samsung TV Plus — with seven newly announced channels coming this month.

The content ranges from a comedy network from Kevin Hart himself to music channels, a network for horror movies and shows and more local programming (which we're counting as one channel, since it's region-based). And if you bought a Samsung TV in the last seven years (all of the best Samsung TVs qualify) you'll likely get these channels for free.

The biggest names on the marquee come from Kevin Hart, as the LOL! Network he founded offers Samsung users comedy from the likes of Keke Palmer (Nope, Hustlers), Nick Cannon and Blake Griffin. Yes, the NBA star. He's pursuing a career in standup, if you haven't heard.

Personally, if I had a Samsung TV (alas I went with the LG C2 OLED), I'd be looking into Horror 24/7. While this channel doesn't bear a novel name, it will offer a mix of movies and TV shows. But don't waste time, it's a limited-run channel that won't be around forever. 

As for local news, Samsung's adding ABC7 Bay Area and ABC 13 Houston, as well as coastal Telemundo stations for California and Florida. Need more? Plex just added 13 free movies.

Since the likes of Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Freevee and Tubi can be accessed on a wide range of devices, Samsung's hardware specific offerings do help it stand out — and try and provide a reason to opt for a smart TV over one of the best streaming devices.

New free TV channels on Samsung TV Plus in March 2023

• LOL! Network: Kevin Hart's LOL! Network collects content from stars including Keke Palmer, Nick Cannon and Blake Griffin.
• ABC and Telemundo local stations: ABC7 Bay Area and ABC 13 Houston, as well as Telemundo's regional networks for Florida and California extend Samsung's local news.
• Horror 24/7: This limited run channel celebrating the "Half-Way ‘till Halloween" marker includes movies such as The Last Exorcism, The Blair Witch Project and A Haunting in Connecticut, as well as shows including Most Haunted (S16, S17, S18), Scream Queens (S1, S2) and the Rosemary’s Baby miniseries.
• Vevo '70s US: Music videos and performances across many genres including Pop, R&B and Rock. Artists include The Bee Gees, Stevie Wonder and Blondie.
• Vevo '80s US: Focused on videos from likes of Whitney Houston, Guns N' Roses, Culture Club and Run-DMC.
• Vevo '90s US: More music videos, with artists including Nirvana, Mariah Carey, 2Pac and Britney Spears.
• Vevo Retro Rock: Cross-decade rock music videos programming, with included acts such as Foo Fighters, Guns N' Roses, Greta Van Fleet and System Of A Down.

How to watch Samsung TV Plus

You can find Samsung TV Plus on almost all Samsung TVs made between 2016 and 2023 — it's also available on Samsung mobile devices. You can even stream Samsung TV Plus on select Samsung Family Hub Plus refrigerators.

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As Roku gains more new free TV channels, rival Pluto TV is doing the same. And while Roku's offerings are all from MLB, Warner Bros. and the Spanish language ViX network, Pluto's new batch is a little more spread out, with only three networks coming from the same provider. 

This kind of additional content helps Pluto reign as one of the best free streaming services — especially  if you love classic TV. As Cord Cutter News notes, Pluto TV just added a live linear 24/7 channel dedicated to The Dick Van Dyke Show, as we noted in our last roundup of new Pluto channels. It fits in perfectly on the Pluto lineup, right next to the I Love Lucy channel added last month.

On top of that, the other big new Pluto channel is AspireTV Life, which "celebrates positive, authentic lifestyle content and portrays the reality and diversity of Black viewers and those moved by the culture." AspireTV features shows about designer Nikki Chu and multi-hyphenate Angela Simmons, and it also has the Butter + Brown cooking show, which is executive produced by Issa Rae.

There are seven other recently added Pluto TV channels of note, which we list below, including the Dateline 24/7 channel. Pluto also got a new local CBS news feed, this one for Detroit. Need more? Plex just added 13 free movies.

With these new channels, Pluto has beefed up its offerings for retro TV enthusiasts and those looking for more Black content. The linear and on-demand ad-supported streaming service is a strong alternative to the best streaming services that are increasingly raising prices. 

New free TV channels that hit Pluto TV in February and March 2023

• Are You Smarter than a 5th Grader?
• AspireTV Life
• CBS Detroit News
• Classic TV Crime Drama
• Dateline 24/7
• The Dick Van Dyke Show channel
• I Love Lucy
• XITE Gospel
• XITE Rock
• XITE Classic Country

Yes, you can watch Pluto TV anywhere

And don't worry, Pluto's available on practically all of the best streaming devices. Pluto TV has apps on Amazon Fire TV devices, Roku devices, Apple's tvOS, Xbox, PlayStation and Smart TVs. Chromecast devices also support Pluto TV.

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We know it. You know it. Everybody needs more free TV to watch, and Amazon's Freevee just added a ton of new movies to watch. And that's the beauty of Freevee (it's in the name) — everything there is free. 

Freevee offers some great TV shows (the likes of Lost, Schitt's Creek and Mad Men), but we don't think enough people know or understand what Freevee is, but you may remember its old name: IMDb TV. Just like that service, Freevee offers all of its content using the FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) business model, so you get the shows and movies you like, and you just need to sit through ads. It's like cable, except you don't pay.

Freevee is one of the best free streaming services, standing up alongside the likes of Pluto TV and The Roku Channel. And just like Pluto and The Roku Channel, Freevee has linear, ad-supported channels.  It's available inside the Prime Video app, though you may need a (free) Amazon account to use it, depending on where you log in.

We've got the full list of titles below, but we'll call out the cream of the crop right here, starting with 2009's amazing An Education. Led by Peter Sarsgaard and relative newcomer Carey Mulligan, this coming of age story sees Jenny (Mulligan) experiencing adult life for the first time after leading a somewhat sheltered life before, thanks to David (Sarsgaard), and older and charming suitor.

Then, the next pick we have is Annihilation, the fantastic Natalie Portman-led sci-fi film from Alex Garland. Lena (Portman) lead a group of scientists into a mysterious realm called the Shimmer that's been doing inexplicable things and emerged from a crashed meteor.

Looking for sci-fi with larger lore? Star Trek: Beyond, the third of the Chris Pine-led Trek films is now on Freevee. Romcom fans should appreciate the Jennifer Lopez and Matthew McConaughey-led The Wedding Planner.

Documentary fans will devour Inside Job, the Matt Damon-narrated film about the 2008 financial crisis. Those who want some retro fun can go with 1982's Fast Times at Ridgemont High or 1987's Dirty Dancing.

The full list of titles just-added to Freevee this month is below, and we've also got a list of what's coming soon. 

Every new free movie added to Amazon Freevee in March 2023

• 3 Days to Kill (2014)
• An Education (2009)
• Annihilation (2018)
• Awakenings (1990)
• Bewitched (2005)
• Bulletproof (1996)
• Crooked House (2017)
• Death at a Funeral (2010)
• Dirty Dancing (1987)
• Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
• Inside Job (2010)
• Jumping the Broom (2011)
• Kindergarten Cop (1990)
• Kindergarten Cop 2 (2016)
• News of the World (2020)
• Out of the Furnace (2013)
• Promising Young Woman (2020)
• Roman J. Israel, Esq. (2017)
• Safe Haven (2013)
• Smokey and the Bandit (1977)
• Smokey and the Bandit II (1980)
• Smokey and the Bandit III (1983)
• Star Trek Beyond (2016)
• Takers (2010)
• The Wedding Planner (2001)
• Van Wilder: Freshman Year (2009)
• White House Down (2013)

Movies coming to Freevee later this month

• Cats (2018) — Coming March 22nd
• Birds Like Us (2017) — Coming March 31st
• Come Play (2020) — Coming March 31st
• Fallen (1998) — Coming March 31st
• My Sweet Monster (2021) — Coming March 31st
• Outback (2019) — Coming March 31st
• Pinocchio: A True Story (2021)

How to watch Freevee online

While it's available through the Prime Video app — and on the web — Freevee is also available as a standalone-app on some of the best streaming devices. Those include Amazon Fire TV devices and Roku devices. It's also on smart TVs, iOS, Android, Xbox and PS5.

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Pluto TV is doing what it has to in order to keep its title as one of the best free streaming services: this month it's adding a lot of TV (over 2,000 episodes worth) — and some major movies too. The marquee new Pluto TV channels, though, read like a fantasy grudge match you'd never expect.

First up is Pluto TV Rocky (channel 48), streaming right now, and offering the six Rocky movies. So, you'll be able to see Rocky (1976), Rocky II (1979), Rocky III (1982), Rocky IV (1985), Rocky V (1990) and Rocky Balboa (2006), all for free. 

Sadly, the Creed movies aren't coming along for the ride, but both Creed and Creed II are available on HBO Max and Prime Video. The only issue? Pluto notes that this is a "limited run" channel, so don't expect it to stay forever.

The other big contender for your attention is the new Pluto TV Sailor Moon channel (channel 2356). Pluto will curate hundreds of hours of Sailor Moon content, including (according to its press release), "all 200 episodes of The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon, all episodes of The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon Crystal, as well as The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon R: The Movie, The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon S: The Movie and The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon Super S: The Movie."

Oh, and if those aren't retro enough for you? A whole channel dedicated to The Dick Van Dyke show is debuting later in March. 

In terms of those thousands of episodes? Pluto is pulling in a wide range of shows, including The Challenge, Bar Rescue and Key & Peele. My favorite is likely Nathan for You, the predecessor to HBO Max's amazing The Rehearsal. 

With those three channels and on-demand shows combined, we think plenty more people will have reason to tune into Pluto. The linear and on-demand ad-supported streaming service is a strong alternative to the best streaming services that are increasingly raising prices. Oh, and need more free movies? Well, Freevee's just added 27 free movies, including the excellent Annihilation and An Education.

Every new free channel, show and movie coming to Pluto in March 2023

• Pluto TV Rocky featuring
  Rocky
  Rocky II
  Rocky III
  Rocky IV
  Rocky V
  Rocky Balboa
• WOW - Women Of Wrestling featuring
  All-new season one reboot episodes
  My Road to WOW - The Secrets of The Superheroes docuseries
  The Origin of WOW - Women Of Wrestling docuseries
• Sailor Moon channel featuring
  All 200 episodes of The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon
  All episodes of The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon Crystal
  The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon R: The Movie
  The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon S: The Movie
  The Pretty Guardians Sailor Moon Super S: The Movie.
• Mystery Science Theater 3000 season 13 on the MST3K channel
• All seven seasons of Star Trek: Voyager on the Star Trek channel
• 2,000 on-demand episodes from shows including
  RuPaul's Drag Race
  The Challenge
  The Hills
  Key & Peele
  Bar Rescue
  Nathan for You
  Judge Judy

Yes, you can watch Pluto TV anywhere

And don't worry, Pluto's available on practically all of the best streaming devices. Pluto TV has apps on Amazon Fire TV devices, Roku devices, Apple's tvOS, Xbox, PlayStation and Smart TVs. Chromecast devices also support Pluto TV.

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The best Roku channels make it easy so stream popular movies and popular TV shows. Even better, many of them are free! Not only that, Roku is constantly adding more options.

With one of the best Roku devices, you can check out a ton of Roku channels, both free and paid (some of the latter will offer a free trial for new members). That includes power players like Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock and Max. 

But the list of best Roku channels doesn't stop with the big-name streaming services. Try PBS Kids or Kids Room TV for children's programming, CuriosityStream for science content or Twitch for free streaming of video gamers playing games. There's even a Peloton channel on Roku.

The best Roku channels to add right now

Tubi (free)

Tubi offers a cornucopia of new and old programming, much of which you may never have even considered watching. From drama to reality and everything in between, there's something for every type of viewer available, all for free and supported by ads. There's even a dedicated selection of kids' programming as well as a wide range of anime and niche entertainment to sift through. Tubi Originals also offers great true crime series, animation and much more. If you're tired of tuning in to the same content over and over, Tubi is one channel you should check out on Roku. 

FitOn (free)

Don't have time to head to the gym? Work out at home and get in shape with FitOn, a free selection of exercise videos and workout plans. It offers unlimited access to cardio, strength training, yoga videos and more to help you get into the best form you've ever been in. Celebrity trainers like Cassey Ho and Katie Dunlop lead each course, and their clients occasionally drop in as well. You can reach your fitness goals without dropping a dime on another subscription service. 

Peacock (subscription)

Peacock offers thousands of hours of movies and television shows drawn from NBCUniversal's iconic brands, including NBC, Bravo and Syfy. Watch "The Office," "Real Housewives," "Law and Order" and "Saturday Night Live," as well as blockbuster theatrical films such as "Oppenheimer" and "Fast and Furious." Plus, Peacock has live sports like Premier League and WWE.

Amazon Video (subscription and a la carte)

Whether or not you subscribe to Amazon Prime, the Amazon Video channel is a worthwhile addition to your Roku. Those who dish out the $99-per-year membership fee for Prime can stream a large selection of movies and TV shows. Amazon Video also offers a la carte purchases and rentals, as well as a growing number of original programs, including the acclaimed Transparent and Mozart in the Jungle. For those who don't want a full Amazon Prime subscription, you can subscribe to Amazon Video only for $9 per month. Tom's Guide has also compiled an updated list of what to watch on Amazon Video, in case you're looking for recommendations.

Crackle (free)

Crackle is one of the best Roku channels for watching free big-budget movies, provided you don't mind sitting through a few commercials. If you cut the cord on your cable subscription but still miss zoning out in front of cheesy action comedies, this app is for you. The selection at Crackle rotates frequently, but there are usually some memorable films, like Gattaca.

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Netflix (subscription)

Netflix pioneered the art of the marathon TV watching session, which earns it an easy inclusion in our list of best Roku channels. Whether you want to watch newer hits like Black Mirror, or classics like The A-Team, Netflix has something to suit your tastes. Netflix also boasts some of the best-made and well-received original programming, from Marvel tie-ins Daredevil and Jessica Jones, to revivals of popular nostalgic shows like Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life and Fuller House. Check out our guide to the best Netflix shows for a comprehensive view on the best of big red.

Disney Plus (subscription)

Disney Plus brings Disney's massive library of content to the streaming scene. You've got animated princess movies, original Star Wars series, a good chunk of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a whole lot of weird mid-budget live-action movies that you half-remember from your childhood. The service costs only $7 per month, which makes it a fair bit cheaper than other streaming services, too. Of course, if you prefer not to give Disney any more of your money or attention, that's fair, too; it's become a bit hegemonic in recent years.

YouTube (free and a la carte)

YouTube is not a TV or movie channel in the strictest sense, but in terms of the raw amount of video it offers, this service is unsurpassed. You'll find a little bit of everything: original web shows, small clips from popular movies and TV shows, music videos, narrated playthroughs of popular video games and just about everything else, from paid movie rentals to much racier fare.

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HBO Max (subscription)

HBO Max, the new version of HBO Go and HBO Now, has been great for more than just streaming past and current seasons of popular HBO shows, such as Succession, Euphoria and Game of Thrones. On top of those series, and comedy specials and hit movies, HBO Max spent 2021 streaming big movies on their first day in theaters. Unfortunately, that's gone, but HBO Max keeps adding big titles such as the Harry Potter Reunion to make up for it.

Hulu (subscription)

Hulu is one of the best Roku channels thanks to deals with major networks, including Fox, NBC, The CW and ABC, and it uploads new episodes shortly after they air. The service has past seasons of popular shows on tap, and even hosts the entire runs of nostalgic series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Daria. A handful of decent Hulu originals, like Difficult People and Casual, sweeten the deal. Check out our guide to the best Hulu movies and our Hulu promo codes for more on the service.

FandangoNOW (a la carte)

At first blush, FandangoNOW is extremely similar to Amazon Video. Roku's default movie and TV show streaming service is exactly what it claims to be: a way to buy and rent movies that's pre-installed on every Roku device. While the selection isn't drastically different from competing services, there's no reason not to try it, especially since it now provides a small selection of 4K films.

Apple TV

Apple TV Plus brings a bevy of original content for $5 per month — even if it's not all that good. Viewers will be able to tune into shows like Dickinson, See and The Morning Show, starring actors such as Hailee Steinfeld, Jason Momoa and Jennifer Aniston, respectively. And if the shows aren't to your taste (they very well may not be), the Apple TV app also lets you access TV shows and movies they've purchased through iTunes.

Showtime (subscription)

Showtime has produced some of the most unusual and beloved shows on TV, including Shameless, Homeland, Billions and The Affair. If you get the channel as part of your cable or satellite package, Showtime Anytime allows you to watch the channel's TV shows, comedy specials, sports events and movies. Alternatively, you can subscribe to Showtime as a stand-alone service, with access to all of the same content.

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Peloton

Peloton fanatics don't need an actual Peloton bike to access the popular instructor-led classes; they can just download the app to their mobile device. Now, they can also fire up the Peloton Roku channel and select one of the cycling workouts to stream on a big-screen TV. There are also floor-based workouts available, including strength, yoga, HIIT, dance, and meditation. 

If you already have a Peloton account, you can sign into the channel with your credentials. New users can take advantage of a 30-day free trial; after that, the app-only membership is $12.99 per month. (You can sign up on your TV with Roku Pay.)

Sky News (free)

Sky News provides live broadcasts for the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada. Although the organization originated in the U.K., it shares news that the whole English-speaking world can use, and it doesn't cost a dime. In addition to live reports, Sky News also offers cached feeds, allowing users to watch news highlights when it best suits their schedules. The channel provides live, 24/7 coverage.

CBS All Access (subscription)

CBS All Access gives users access to CBS programming in real time, as well as an on-demand library of more than 2,000 titles, from NCIS to Supergirl to The Twilight Zone. The main draw of the service, however, is Star Trek: Discovery, which is the first new serial adventure in the series since 2005. It's an excellent show, and at present, there's no other way to watch it in the United States. Thanks to the new Twilight Zone reboot also available on the service, CBS All Access merits a mention as one of the best Roku channels.

Sling TV (subscription)

Sling TV provides more than 20 beloved broadcast and cable channels, including ESPN, Cartoon Network, TBS and CNN. For those who want additional packages, from Spanish-language channels to additional kids' programming, Sling TV offers supplements a la carte. Sling TV is cheaper than a cable subscription and easy to access on a variety of devices, letting you watch your favorite shows in real time. You can also save on plans with our Sling TV promo codes.

MLB.TV (subscription)

With games almost every night and 30 teams to follow, baseball is not a sport for the noncommittal. If you want to watch recorded home games, live away games, live broadcasts, replays and more stats than you can shake a bat at, MLB.TV delivers. MLB.TV is Major League Baseball's official streaming app, and will allow you to watch almost every regular season game from every team.

NBA (subscription)

NBA Game Time for the NBA app streams live basketball games for subscribers, but also has a little something for more casual courtside warriors. Through this app, fans can access live scores, team and player stats, game recaps, video highlights and up-to-the-minute information on league standings. However, be warned that the app generally can't stream local games, due to media company broadcasting restrictions.

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WatchESPN (subscription)

If you can't pick just one sport to follow, WatchESPN has you covered. Although WatchESPN requires a cable or satellite subscription, you'll get plenty of bang for your buck. The channel allows you to access ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3, ESPNU, ESPNews and ESPN Deportes live, 24/7. You'll also be able to stream recorded games from professional football, baseball, basketball, tennis and more.

NFL (subscription)

If you have both a Roku device and an obsession with American football, the NFL app is one of the best Roku channels for you. By default, the channel can play a number of free game highlights. With a Game Pass subscription and the NFL app, sports fans can watch every game from every team, all season long, right on their Rokus, from the opening skirmishes right up to the Super Bowl.

Nosey (free)

If you're a big fan of daytime TV and talk shows, you can check them all out 24/7 by way of Nosey. From "The Jerry Springer Show" to "Maury Povich", it's got all the drama you can handle, all day long. Choose from a variety of daytime talk and dramalicious series and indulge in paternity tests and cheating scandals. Sometimes you need to relax and let your brain rest, and take in some good ol' trashy TV. It's all right here. 

Pandora (free or subscription)

You've almost certainly used Pandora before. Whether you want background music for your household tasks or the soundtrack for a party, Pandora delivers. The concept is simple: enter a bunch of artists or songs that you like, then Pandora will analyze their commonalities and create a radio channel that suits your taste. You can even create multiple stations to suit various moods, tastes and events.

Spotify (subscription)

Spotify is fun way to listen to songs or entire albums from almost every major musical act of the last 100 years, from Mississippi John Hurt to the Rolling Stones to Katy Perry. Whether your tastes skew to classical, blues, rock, pop, punk, techno or show tunes, Spotify probably has what you're looking for. You can even supplement it with music from your own collection.

Disney Channel (subscription)

Roku's Disney Channel won't do you much good unless you already have a cable or satellite subscription, but if you do, it's one of the best Roku channels for kids. Disney Channel offers both live programming and prerecorded shows, ranging from Elena of Avalor to Girl Meets World. The channel also provides original made-for-TV movies, such as Descendants. There's not much for adults, though.

PBS Kids (free)

PBS has always prided itself on supplying quality programming without advertisements or cable subscriptions, and PBS Kids is no exception. The shows on the PBS Kids Roku app definitely skew toward a younger audience, with titles like Curious George and Sesame Street. Parents may be pleased to discover that classic shows they grew up with, such as Arthur and The Electric Company, are also present and accounted for.

PlayOn (subscription)

PlayOn uses your computer as a media server, and lets your Roku access more than 60 channels through it, including broadcast TV websites, such as ABC, Fox and CBS. This allows you to watch free primetime shows on your TV just a few days after they first air. PlayOn also lets you record videos online for later. Follow the link to install; it's a private channel.

Plex (subscription)

If you'd rather watch your own content than the highly curated fare on the other best Roku channels, Plex is one of the simplest and prettiest ways to do it. Plex will organize all of your content and stream it to your Roku, complete with seasons, cover art, episode descriptions and even a snippet of the theme song for TV shows. The app makes watching your own content just as visually appealing as watching Netflix.

Twitch (free)

If you prefer watching video games to playing them, Twitch is the channel for you. The popular network is the Internet’s first stop for live streams of video games, and you’ll see everything from Overwatch to Dark Souls to Pokémon. Whether you want Let's Plays, tips and tricks or competitive play, Twitch has a streamer to appeal to both your skill level and your taste in personality.

Starz (subscription)

While perhaps not as popular as HBO or Showtime, Starz still has a lot to offer. Whether you subscribe to it as a stand-alone service or activate it through your cable or subscription, you can access hit shows like Blunt Talk and Ash vs. Evil Dead. The biggest advantage of Starz, though, is that it's often the first service to get hit movies like Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

CuriosityStream (subscription)

Imagine the informative, scientific entertainment of the Discovery Channel or National Geographic in their heydays; now imagine it in 4K. That's what CuriosityStream is, and it's absolutely worth the subscription cost. Whether you want to learn about nature, chemistry, geology or astrophysics, CuriosityStream has something to expand your mind. Deep Time History, which combines astronomy with world history, is particularly worth checking out.

The Weather Network (free)

While you're probably not going to get immersed in The Weather Network and watch it for hours on end, it's still pretty useful to know exactly what the weather is in your neighborhood, and how it's going to change over the course of the next few hours or days. The Weather Network is a free channel that shows you local weather, as well as conditions all around the world. You can check in with numerical information displayed up top, or watch full videos from meteorologists.

Vudu (a la carte)

Vudu may seem like just another a-la-carte service, selling you movies and TV shows that you can either rent or keep at premium prices. However, Vudu has a few major advantages that makes it one of the best channels on Roku. First of all, if you've bought any Blu-rays within the past few years, you may have redeemed your digital copies on Vudu, giving you a pretty respectable library to start with. Furthermore, the service offers 4K HDR content — something that not many other video streaming services do just yet.

The Roku Channel (free)

No discussion of the best Roku channels would be complete without the titular one. The Roku Channel may not have the largest selection of movies and TV shows — but said movies and TV shows won't cost you a penny, which seems like a fair trade-off. This channel offers a rotating selection of media, including popular films like Legally Blonde and Drunken Master, supported by periodic ads, as though you were watching a movie on basic cable. Roku has also added a Kids and Family section to the channel, providing friendlier fare for a younger crowd.

Oh, and a new Roku upgrade directed at cord-cutters is all about promoting The Roku Channel's free live linear TV content (as well as some of the best cable TV alternatives).

Google Play TV and Movies (a la carte)

If you have an Android phone or tablet, there's a good chance that you've bought some media on Google Play TV and Movies. (Even if you haven't, Google may have given you a few titles for free; it's worth checking out.) Google Play TV and Movies lets you buy or rent a la carte films and TV episodes, and in that respect, it's a lot like Amazon, Vudu and some other entries on this list. However, Google Play's big advantage is that it syncs extremely well with the Movies Anywhere program. This lets you access titles you've purchased from a variety of sources, including iTunes — which, of course, does not have a Roku app, and probably never will. You can also access titles you purchase here on any Android device, which is helpful if you want to take your content with you.

DC Universe (subscription)

DC Universe is worth checking out, if only because it offers something unique. At first blush, DC's streaming service is simply a way to showcase a few original video titles, such as Titans and Harley Quinn. Dig a little deeper, though, and you'll find that it's also a grand repository of beloved DC movies and TV shows, from Christopher Reeve's Superman to Batman: The Animated Series. What really sets DC Universe apart, though, is that it doesn't restrict itself to video; it also offers comic books. From nostalgic single issues of Wonder Woman to postmodern deconstructions like The Dark Knight Returns, DC Universe offers fans a way to see what inspired its new shows firsthand.

Pluto TV (free)

Pluto TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service on Roku that offers live TV and on-demand content. You can access thousands of movies and TV shows across various genres, including news, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. The news channels has names such as CNN, NBC News, CBS News, and more, but mostly, they play pre-recorded clips instead of a proper live stream. Some free movies include "Titanic", "The Wolf of Wall Street", and "Arrival".

All you need to do is download the Pluto TV app on the Roku channel store. Then, find the menu options and look for the "Sign In" or "Activate" option. Pluto TV will give you a unique code on the screen, which you can use to activate your account on the Roku channel. 

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If your streaming bill keeps creeping up, you're not imagining it. Many of the major streaming plaforms have raised their prices several times over the past few years, and most viewers are juggling multiple paid subscriptions at once. At the same time, free, ad-supported streaming has gone from an afterthought to a regular part of people’s viewing habits.

That's why it's so important that FAST platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Xumo Play, Sling Freestream and others exist. They offer thousands of movies and shows, plus hundreds of live channels that look and feel like cable, all supported by ads instead of subscription fees. In practice, that means you can flip between 24/7 news, crime marathons, classic sitcom blocks, reality TV, kids’ shows and more without spending more.

But you do pay with your time: every one of these services is built around advertising, and most of them lean heavily on commercial breaks during shows and movies. That experience is similar to watching traditional cable, however, so it's not a huge trade-off.

It's important to remember that these apps don’t cost anything to install or try, so you can see which one suits you best all without paying a dime. To help you figure out which one or multiple apps workfor you, we compared the major free streaming platforms. Below, you’ll find our picks for the best free streaming services to add to your setup right now. Saving money is more important than ever right now, so we're going to help you do it right with all these free streaming services.

The best free streaming services right now

Tubi

Think of Tubi as a free version of Netflix, with an on-demand library of over 20,000 movies and TV shows. Of course, Tubi doesn’t have some of the newer, high-profile titles that a subscription platform boasts. But its catalog is still impressive for a free streaming service, and Tubi even has its own set of originals if you're looking for something more unique. You'll also find plenty of fun hidden gems there if youknow where to look.

Tubi (now owned by Fox Corporation) was able to build its library by partnering with over 250 providers, including Hollywood heavyweights Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM. So, they offer a mix of recent blockbusters as well as classic library titles, with cult hits peppered thorughout to make things interesting.

Tubi has a clean, streamlined experience. When we tested the platform, we saw that its home page is organized into sections like Recently Added, Family Movies, Action and Black Cinema. Clicking the menu for even more genres and curated collections, there are even more categories to help you decide what to watch. While you don’t have to sign up to use Tubi, registering for an account gives you access to parental controls, a queue, and viewing history.

Watch Tubi here

Roku Channel

The Roku Channel app comes automatically with any Roku TV or device, but it’s also available for download on mobile phones and tablets. You can also access it on the web. The Roku Channel doesn’t force you to register for an account (you can watch as a guest) but signing up allows you to continue watching content on another device.

Like the other services, it offers on-demand movies and TV shows. The Roku Channel also rolled out a Roku Live TV Guide, so viewers can channel surf. The best part of Roku Channel is that it often streams the first episodes of premium cable shows, like "Game of Thrones", "Billions", "Outlander" and "Watchmen". But when it comes to having whole shows, you don't have series of that caliber, but stuff like "This Old House" instead.

Watch The Roku Channel here

Pluto TV

The Viacom-owned Pluto TV has a decent selection of on-demand movies and shows, but where it really shines is in live TV streaming. Viewers can browse live channels in a grid, similar to the cable TV guide experience. The lineup draws heavily from Viacom’s other properties, so you can tune into MTV, TV Land, VH1 and BET content. They also offer other recognizable brands, like CNN and Fox Sports — though those run curated clips, not the actual live broadcast you’d see if you watched them on cable.

As we poked around Pluto, we noted its interface is clean and simple, making it easy to toggle between live and on-demand. Both are organized into categories, making it easy to find the kind of content you want to watch. Yes, there are ads, but no more than what you’d get watching cable. And Pluto TV doesn’t even require registration, though users can access special features if they do sign up for an account, such as the ability to designate favorite channels and resume watching a program on a different device.

Watch Pluto TV here

Plex

Plex once centered entirely around its Media Server, which allows users to organize their personal media and play it across a myriad of devices. However, the service has increasingly pivoted to content discovery and streaming over the past few years. In fact, the "What is Plex?" section on the official website doesn't even mention the media server functionality, though it's still very much a part of the service's list of features.

The main attraction of Plex for streamers is its discovery functionality. You can add the services you have to your profile and manage your watchlist for all of them in one place. You can also add other Plex users as friends to see what they're watching, if you're into the social aspect of the service. Plex also offers some free programming but doesn't produce original content itself. Additionally, there is live TV functionality, but you must set up a Plex Media Server and connect a tuner and antenna to it.

Despite Plex's desire to go "legit," most people still use it for the media server functionality. That's what really sets it apart from other services. If you're not interested in hosting local media, it's hard to recommend Plex over another streaming service due to its limited content.

However, there do seem to be more shows in limited numbers being added to Plex as of late, so it's still worth checking out if you're curious.

Watch Plex here

YouTube

YouTube isn’t just home to viral videos; it’s also one of the most overlooked places to stream full-length movies and TV shows for free. Tucked between music videos and meme compilations, there’s a deep well of licensed movies and complete TV episodes available to watch without paying a cent.

The selection constantly changes, but you’ll often find a mix of action flicks, comedies, thrillers, and throwback series. Many of the shows are officially offered by studios and distributors, not random uploads, and they’re supported by ads, much like traditional television. They're also denoted by a green "Free" badge. No account or subscription is required to watch, but logging in does let you build a watchlist and pick up where you left off.

What makes YouTube unique in the free streaming space is its flexibility, though. You can jump from a classic movie to a niche documentary, then over to an episode of a 2000s sitcom, all on the same platform, then watch related videos you may never have thought of viewing. If you’re willing to search a bit or browse their Free to Watch section, there’s plenty to uncover without ever reaching for your wallet. And if you're willing to pony up for a Premium subscription to YouTube, you can watch its free content all without ads.

Watch YouTube here

Sling Free

Sling is one of the best cable TV alternatives in the market at $46 per month for 50-plus channels. They company also launched a no-cost service with the name Freestream that boasts live and on-demand content. We love Sling, as multiple TG staffers have used it to cut the cord, and a free version may be the ticket to getting more users to try the platform.

Sling Freestream launched with 210 channels and 41,000 on-demand titles across genres including news, sports, game shows, crime dramas, nature, home improvement and cooking. Some of the channels are familiar names like "ABC News Live", "ESPN On Demand", "Family Feud", "Forensic Files", 'Hell's Kitchen", "Rick Steves Europe", "VH1 I Love Reality" and "The Walking Dead Universe". Plus, users can add on premium streaming services like AMC Plus and Showtime for additional content.

Watch Sling Freestream here

Fandango at Home

Previously called Vudu, Fandango at Home is a digital marketplace where you can purchase the latest movies and TV shows but also stream free content. To use it, you'll have to sign up for an account. Once you do that, you can access over a ton of free movies and TV episodes. Few of them are new blockbusters, but the selection is pretty good among free streaming services. The movie area is better than the TV section, however, though there are occasionally some new blockbusters that pop up from time to time.

The interface is easy to use and free content is clearly marked. The ads are about as frequent as other free services, but they tend to be more repetitive (and sometimes annoyingly interactive, requiring you to choose an option).

Watch Fandango at Home here

How we test the best free streaming services

• The way we test streaming services is to sit down and actually watch them
• We look at the overall platform experience and content availability

Shows and movies on free streaming services come and go with the frequency of Spinal Tap drummers, red-shirts on "Star Trek" and roses on "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelorette".

So, first and foremost, we check these services frequently to make sure they're still providing some good content (specific shows and movies are subject to the whims and contracts we're not privy to).

On top of that, we also look at these services on the best streaming devices to make sure that everyone gets a quality experience.

Lastly, we do the hard work and actually watch the shows and movies, to make sure these apps actually work well. We don't expect them all to function as well as paid services, but we love it when they have the same high-quality apps.

Are the best free streaming services actually free?

• These free streaming services are actually free; you don't need to pay anything to use them
• They do show ads, potentially up to nine minutes per hour, which is lower than the 15 minutes for traditional cable services

Yes, all of the free streaming services we've included in this guide are 100% completely, totally free. Some require you to sign up with an account, and some don't, but the cost of all of them is zero.

That comes with a major caveat: Ads. According to a report by Wurl Analytics, FAST services show an average of nine minutes of ads per hour.

That's lower than the 15 minutes per hour that's normal for cable TV, though higher than the ad-supported tiers of Netflix and HBO Max (about four minutes per hour). Then again, those cost $7 and $10, respectively. Of course, you also get all the premium content those subscription streaming services offer.

How to choose the best free streaming service for you 

• Since they're all free, there's little risk to trying each app to see if it works for you
• Do you need live channels? If so, you should look at Pluto TV, Sling Free, Xumo, Peacock or Roku
• If you're a movie fan, look for a service with lots of free (but sometimes lesser-known) films

Luckily, since they are all free, you don’t need to choose just one of the best free streaming services. However, you may find it difficult to balance a bunch of different apps and want to focus on just one or two.

The first consideration should be whether you want to be able to watch live channels. If that’s the case, you may want to use Pluto TV, Sling Free, Xumo, Peacock or the Roku Channel. If you only care about finding movies and TV shows on-demand, then try Freevee, Peacock, Tubi, or Vudu.

Content selection is the other major thing that distinguishes the free streaming services from each other. Aside from Peacock, with its library of name-brand content, almost all of them have the same core of free TV shows, like "Hell’s Kitchen" and "Roseanne". But some, like Freevee and Tubi, have more robust movie libraries. Others provide access to top past shows, like Peacock and the Roku Channel. So, peruse the available titles and see if the streamer has options that appeal to you. After all, even if these services are free, doesn’t mean they have stuff you want to watch.

Looking for a way to stream TV without adding another bill to your budget? Enter Pluto TV, one of the leading FAST (free ad-supported streaming television) services. Yes, you read that right — Pluto TV is a completely free streaming service.

With subscription streaming platforms hiking prices left and right, more people are turning to free alternatives like Pluto TV to save money. While these services might not offer the latest blockbuster movies or trending shows (though some, like Amazon’s Freevee, dabble in original content), they make up for it with an extensive library of free entertainment.

Pluto TV shines particularly bright in this space. Owned by Paramount, it delivers access to beloved classics like “Cheers”, “Frasier”, and “Star Trek”, plus a treasure trove of movies from Paramount Studios. It’s available in the U.S. and numerous international regions, including parts of Europe, Latin America, and Brazil, offering entertainment on a global scale.

Whether you’re cutting the cord or just looking to supplement your streaming options, Pluto TV offers a cost-free way to enjoy hours of television and movies. Here’s everything you need to know about this popular free live TV service.

What is Pluto TV?

Pluto TV is an “over-the-top” (OTT) service, meaning it streams content over the internet — similar to Netflix — rather than through traditional cable or satellite. It’s an advertiser-supported video on demand (AVOD) platform, placing it in the same category as streaming services like Crackle, Sling Free, and Tubi (which is now available in the U.K.).

Offering a diverse range of content, Pluto TV features channels covering news, sports, entertainment, movies, and more, with programming tailored to various interests. You can watch it on a variety of devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers.

To access Pluto TV, simply stream it via the Pluto website or download the app on one of the many compatible devices.

What sets Pluto TV apart as one of the best free streaming services? Keep reading to find out.

Pluto TV free package (with ads)

Yes, seriously: Pluto TV is absolutely free, even though it's hard to believe. You don't even need to register with an email address and you don't have to input any credit card information. Just fire up Pluto's website or the app, and you can start watching shows and movies immediately without the hassle.  This ad-supported model allows you to enjoy the service without a monthly or annual fee.

You can opt to register for a Pluto TV account, which gives you special features like the ability to designate favorite channels and resume watching a program on a different device.

This is all made possible by Pluto airing commercials during shows. This service generates revenue through advertisements, which are shown during programming. Generally, the experience is similar to watching cable TV. A half-hour show typically has about four commercial breaks, with each break consisting of several 20-30 second ads. 

Pluto TV channels and shows

Pluto TV's channels are divided into sections such as Featured, Entertainment, Movies, Sports, Comedy, Kids, Latino and Tech + Geek. 

There are versions of top cable networks like MTV but generally, Pluto TV channels aren't the ones you'd find in a standard cable or satellite package. 

The News channels are names that you know — CNN, NBC News, CBS News, etc. — but mostly, they play curated, pre-recorded clips instead of a live stream of the network. 

Similarly, the Sports channels are ones you've heard of, like Fox Sports, NFL Channel, PGA Tour and Major League Soccer. However, you can't really watch live sports on Pluto; those channels play past games, highlights or analysis.  

Pluto's TV shows are mostly older sitcoms and reality shows that are generally found on other free streaming services, like Hell's Kitchen, Roseanne and The First 48.

Pluto TV app and supported devices

The Pluto TV app is available on devices including web browsers as well as many major smart TVs, smartphones and streaming boxes and sticks. 

• Android mobile and tablet
• Apple iPhone and iPad
• Apple TV (4th Generation)
• Amazon Kindle/Fire Tablets
• Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick
• Roku devices and Roku TVs
• Google Chromecast
• TiVo Stream 4K
• Android TV (various)
• Web browsers
• PlayStation (PS4 & PS5)
• Xbox (One, Series X, and Series S)

Pluto TV reviews

While there aren't a ton of Pluto TV reviews out there, the ones that exist are mostly positive about the free TV streaming service.

PC Mag says, "Pluto TV is a potentially viable solution for people who don't want to completely close the door on cable, but more importantly, don't want to pay for the privilege." Their review cautions potential users, "Anyone looking for a viable replacement to cable with an internet-based live TV service may be underwhelmed by Pluto TV." They think the service could use a bit of a redesign, too, saying, "Pluto TV needs to polish its interfaces and channel guides. The omission of DVR features is notable too, but not surprising given that it is free."

Clark.com says, "If you have decided that you’re going to quit paying for cable TV and subscription streaming services, I think Pluto TV needs serious consideration as a part of your free streaming content mix. There is a strong selection of cable-worthy content on this platform and the barrier to giving it a trial run is extremely low."

Homeowner.com also says, "As to be expected, Pluto TV does have a lot of ads, especially compared to paid streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video. Commercial breaks are about as frequent as with cable TV and can get repetitive. But, for many viewers, this is a small price to pay for having so much free content available at their fingertips."

Pluto TV movies on demand

Yes, Pluto has thousands of movies on-demand and airing live on themed Movies channels, ranging from genres (Drama, Romance, Horror) to '80s Rewind and Black Cinema. While it might not have the same extensive selection as some subscription-based services, there is still a decent range of movies available to watch whenever you want.

Pluto TV movies made up of older titles that were moderate hits back in their day. Recent selections included Shaft, Addams Family Values, The Rainmaker, Airplane, Clue, Road to Perdition and First Wives Club.

Pluto TV internet speed requirements

Pluto TV doesn't provide specific guidelines about internet speed for its service. In its help section, the company says, "Having a fast connection (faster than 5mb) is certainly important, but having a 'stable' connection can be just as important, so that super fast WiFi connection drops out for a 1/2 second and that will cause playback issues."

MORE: How Much Internet Speed Should You Really Pay For?

Can Pluto TV replace cable?

You may be wondering, "Can I use Pluto TV to replace cable?" The answer is: Sort of. Pluto TV provides some programming you may enjoy, if you're satisfied with older movies and shows. However, it doesn't completely replace cable. Pluto TV is more suitable as an addition to on-demand streaming services, particularly since it lacks many popular cable channels and local affiliate channels from major broadcast networks.

But if you want a true cable TV replacement, you will need to supplement Pluto TV with other streaming services.

What is the downside of Pluto TV?

Pluto TV does have some downsides that may limit its appeal. Its content selection is more limited compared to paid streaming services, lacking exclusive shows or a vast on-demand library. While it offers free, ad-supported programming, the frequent commercials can disrupt the viewing experience, which may be frustrating for some users.

The platform also lacks the depth of live TV programming found on cable, missing local channels and premium networks like HBO or ESPN, and its sports coverage is not as comprehensive. Additionally, Pluto TV does not offer cloud DVR, meaning users cannot record live TV or save content for later, a feature commonly available on cable or other streaming services.

• Best streaming devices

Many people are looking for ways to save money and shrink their budgets in light of soaring gas and food prices. One common way to do that is by reducing entertainment expenses — like cable and streaming subscriptions. Last year, I finally cut the cord and got rid of an expensive cable bill, replacing it with our top cable alternative Sling. 

Then, a few months ago, I realized my streaming subscriptions added up to a bill as sky high as a cable package. At the time, I was paying for a whopping 11 services to the tune of $133.44 a month. That's far too much, and I made a plan to "churn" some of them —e.g. cancel, then resubscribe when a favorite show returns, then cancel again when it's over. 

But that still can only save me so much money. Even if I cancel Netflix and sign up for two services for the price of one, I'm still shelling out at least $15 every month. In a time of peak inflation, even that can seem a bit steep. If you're really feeling a pinch, spending any amount on entertainment can seem frivolous. Yet, giving it up entirely sounds like it'll result in a lot of dull evenings. 

So, I decided to conduct an experiment: Could I get by watching only free TV? Absolutely, completely free. No monthly bills. Zero dollars spent. (Of course, that still requires an internet connection and a device, which most of us already have.)

I tried it for a week. Here's what happened.

The free streaming services I used

First, I set up the parameters of the experiment, to somewhat mimic my regular television viewing habits. I had to watch every day for at least an hour and engage in one three-hour binge-watching session. I also could not use any paid services — no Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, etc.

After perusing our guide to the best free streaming services, I downloaded all of them but ended up primarily using four of them: Peacock Free, Amazon Freevee, The Roku Channel and Pluto TV. 

They each have their pros and cons. Peacock is perhaps the most high-profile, with the weight of the NBCUniversal back catalog behind it. The Free tier offers a lot of content, but most of the shows and movies I wanted to see were marked for the Premium tier (which, although you can get it for less than $5 a month with the right Peacock TV promo code, isn't free).

More frustrating was the upselling — giving me a taste of something, then holding back the rest only if I paid for a subscription. For instance, I could watch the very first episode of the Western hit drama Yellowstone, but the rest of it required Premium access. At least I could binge the first five seasons of The Office and the first two seasons of Parks and Recreation. 

Peacock's free movie selection is pretty abysmal, so that's why we should talk about Freevee: Amazon's recently renamed service that boasts more interesting options. The films are also older but better quality, like Knives Out, The Invisible Man and Emma. Freevee also has an extensive free TV selection (thus, its name), including Mad Men, Lost, and originals like Bosch: Legacy. 

The Roku Channel is still playing a bit of catch-up as far as originals, though several of the Quibi legacy series are pretty good. The rest of their catalog is similar to other free streaming services, with a mix of classic sitcoms, dramas and movies. 

As for Pluto TV, I mostly used it as background viewing, or what I call "laundry folding TV." The array of live channels makes it easy to find something to watch. I dropped in on a number of movies and shows in progress, from The Challenge to Midsomer Murders to Inside Llewyn Davis.

Surprise, the ads didn't drive me too crazy

Nothing in life is truly free, and the catch with free streaming services is that they play ads. These ads cannot be skipped. The amount of ads varies between the services, but most run anywhere between four to eight minutes per hour. 

This is probably one of the biggest barriers for switching exclusively to FAST (free ad-supported streaming television). I began my weeklong experiment with apprehension about being inundated with commercials for cars, car insurance, pharmaceuticals, fast food, home goods and personal care products. 

While the ads were certainly unwelcome, I was surprised to find they didn't drive me to the brink of insanity. In most cases, the ad load was lighter than what the streamers officially say. Roku says they cap theirs at eight minutes, but I only saw about a minute of ads during the first hour of Bridesmaids and 90 seconds during a 45-minute episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. 

Freevee's ad load is also supposedly as much as eight minutes, but I got less than five during an episode of Hart of Dixie. Plus, the service helpfully marks shows with limited ads and I saw only around three minutes worth in an episode of Mad Men. 

Pluto did come close to an eight-minute ad load, playing several two- or three-minute chunks of commercials per hour while I watched the Survivor channel.

Peacock reportedly runs 4.6 ads per show, which lined up with the four commercials totaling two minutes that played during an episode of The Office (one of which promoted other Peacock content). 

An average of five minutes of ads for an hourlong show is really not that bad. It's certainly a lot better than what you get with broadcast or cable TV, which generally run 20 minutes of ads per hour. 

The ads weren't the toughest part of my free TV week. FOMO was.

Free TV saves money but leaves you out of the zeitgeist

As my week of FASTing concludes, I've learned a few things. First, free streaming services offer a lot of content, some of which is very good. It's a great way to rewatch some of your favorites or catch up on quality titles you never got around to seeing. I don't actually mind the idea of rewatching Mad Men on Freevee. I already suffered through 20-plus minutes of commercials when episodes first aired on AMC; three minutes now seems piddling.

Second, the ads are annoying but acceptable. As long as the services keep them to a reasonable amount (less than eight minutes per hour), that's a decent trade-off for paying nothing for content. 

Lastly, my main gripe has nothing to do with the free services themselves. It's the FOMO I felt all week, as my friends, colleagues and strangers on the internet chatted about Stranger Things, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Ms. Marvel, The Boys and all the stuff to be found on paid streaming services. 

Cutting Netflix, HBO Max and Disney Plus out of your budget doesn't just mean you lose access to their content — you also lose the ability to participate in face-to-face or virtual watercooler conversation. That is too heavy a price to pay, in my books. But it may be something you're willing to give up for extra cash in your bank account. 

Pluto TV is headed through the Gate. Starting Friday (April 1), a Stargate channel is debuting on Pluto TV, with both the Stargate films and three of its TV shows — all streaming for free with ads. Unfortunately, not all of those series are arriving in totality, as seasons are missing.

That said, the Pluto TV Stargate channel will soon let audiences binge-watch all the Stargate they want, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. That will begin with the 1994 film (Stargate), and also include the 2008 films Stargate: The Ark of Truth and Stargate: Continuum. 

In terms of TV shows, things are more fragmented. Pluto will get only half of Stargate SG-1, with the first half of the series, seasons 1 through 5 (the Showtime seasons. Seasons 6 through 10 — the Sci-Fi channel seasons, are not coming over. Only the first two seasons of Stargate Atlantis will be on Pluto, leaving the last three seasons behind. Both seasons of Stargate Universe are coming over.

The Stargate Infinity animated series and Stargate Origins web series are not mentioned.

Analysis: Pluto is attracting fandoms

Right now, many people can hop on Pluto and feed their love of specific shows with Pluto. The Stargate channel follows, a Baywatch channel, and other linear ad-supported streams of Degrassi, Beverly Hills 90210 and Star Trek.

While I don't personally belong to any of these fandoms, I understand exactly what Pluto is doing. I subscribed to Paramount Plus because that's the place to stream the Jackass movies and shows and all of the Scream movies. This is all similar to what Disney Plus does for people who want to watch the Marvel movies in order and stream the Star Wars movies too. By offering a ton of Stargate, Pluto can open itself up to a whole new section of the audience that may not have checked it out before. 

Those Stargate obsessives may soon find themselves turning to Pluto as a default (a friend does the same with Degrassi), as Pluto's free and linear ad-supported channels feel very familiar. It's very much like a network or cable TV channel where they've already chosen what airs when — it's just that this channel is all Stargate all the time.

As for the next big thing to watch? We've got all the WWE WrestleMania 38 live stream details, including the full card for both nights, start times (including kickoff shows), our predictions and the matches we're most excited about.

In other streaming news, a major Roku upgrade is about to fix one of the worst things about streaming — but we've got questions about who's getting it and how it's going to be implemented.

After more than a year of lockdowns and restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s no surprise that many of us looked to our TVs and streaming devices for entertainment. On the streaming front, there’s been a suite of stellar TV series and movies landing on the likes of Netflix, HBO MAX, Disney Plus and Amazon Prime Video. And there are now more choices than ever when it comes to live TV services that can help you cut the cord.

When it comes to TVs, we’ve seen mini-LEDs and OLED TVs push the envelope in terms of picture quality. And streaming devices and smart TVs are getting smarter with the addition of better voice controls, more intuitive interfaces and integration with the rest of our smart homes. Overall, there's a lot to celebrate in this year’s Tom’s Guide Awards when it comes to TVs and streaming.

Best TV: Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV

The best TV we’ve tested is the Samsung Neo QLED QN90A, Samsung's flagship premium 4K smart TV. Putting the "neo" in Neo QLED is the introduction of mini-LED backlighting, which enhances the boosted color of quantum-dots with the tighter brightness control that tinier LED backlighting zones provide. The brighter colors, deeper blacks and reduced halos show how far the Neo QLED display goes to narrow the gap between LCD and OLED display technologies. The result is one of the best-looking TVs we've ever seen, and Samsung doesn't stop there.

You also get HDMI 2.1 connectivity, a rich collection of smart features and gaming capabilities and killer visual and audio performance — making it the best gaming TV of the year and offering the best sound, as well. Fine touches like a solar-powered rechargeable remote and added capabilities that let you video chat on your TV, get personalized fitness instruction or use it for productive office work all prove that Samsung makes one of the smartest TVs you can buy.

Highly Recommended: TCL 6-Series Roku TV R635
The TCL 6-Series Roku TV R635 proves that innovation, premium quality and affordability can all be had in one excellent TV, with its combination of mini-LED and QLED offering great picture quality and Roku TV offering a rich (if streamlined) smart TV experience. It's incredible value for the price.

Best TV innovation: TCL QLED + Mini-LED

TCL was first to the punch with mini-LED and the TCL 6-Series Roku TV R635 refined the new tech for better picture quality and a more affordable price. The result is one of the best TVs you can buy, utilizing QLED for fantastic color quality and mini-LED for better brightness and HDR performance than anything that came before it.

It's exactly the sort of innovation that matters, sending ripples through the TV industry and prompting Samsung and LG to both introduce their own mini-LED-backlit models for 2021. Several months after its release, the TCL 6-Series Roku TV R635 remains one of the best values in the TV world.

Highly Recommended: Samsung Solar Cell remote control
Of all the refinements and changes we've seen come to TVs in the last 12 months, one of the best is also a brilliantly simple idea: Replace the batteries in your remote control with a rechargeable battery and a built-in solar cell. Samsung's Solar Remote deserves some praise as one of the smartest innovations in TVs.

Best TV sound: Samsung Object Tracking Sound Plus (OTS+) and Q-Symphony

Samsung’s Object Tracking Sound Plus (OTS+) technology uses an array of upward and downward firing speakers around and behind a TV to produce dynamic sound that tracks with the objects on screen. When we tested it on the Samsung Neo QLED QN90A, we were impressed not only with the volume that the 60-watt speakers produced, but also the great quality and immersion that the 4.2.2 channel setup provided.

And Samsung ups the ante a bit more with Q-Symphony, which lets you pair the TV with a Samsung soundbar and then use all of the speakers on both devices for a giant soundstage and a more theater-like sound experience. Did we mention that it can also provide Dolby Atmos sound for Atmos-enabled soundbars? It all adds up to the best TV sound of the year.

Highly Recommended: LG G1 OLED evo 4K TV
The LG G1 OLED’s slim 20-millimeter thick chassis looks impressive, but sounds even better, thanks to an array of built-in 4.2 channel speakers backed by 60 watts of power. LG's AI Sound Pro processing enhances everything from dialogue to sound effects, and Dolby Atmos sound makes the whole thing sound bigger and more impressive than the gorgeous TV already is.

Best value TV: Vizio OLED TV

When it comes to value, there are a lot of TVs that deliver great bang for the buck, but the Vizio OLED TV stands head and shoulders above the rest, delivering what was once the unattainable Holy Grail for TVs: a 55-inch OLED TV for under $1,000. While the Vizio OLED55-H1 usually retails at $1,299 it's a frequent highlight of big sales events and is regularly available for $999 or even less. In short, it’s a value monster.

The OLED display means that the Vizio also offers fantastic picture quality, with rich black levels, excellent HDR capability and overall premium quality. This gets paired with strong audio and Vizio's improved SmartCast smart TV platform, which bolsters its expanded app selection with built-in support for Google Cast and Apple AirPlay 2. It's an easy pick for the best value TV of the year.

Highly Recommended: TCL 5-Series Roku TV (S535)
For an incredible value that's under $1,000 for every screen-size, at any time of year, we love the TCL 5-Series Roku TV (S535). The combination of QLED enhancement and the Roku TV platform make for an affordable TV that looks great and offers a wealth of content.

Highly Recommended: Hisense U8G
The Hisense U8G Android TV is another notable value, offering a great smart TV experience with Android TV and QLED for excellent performance. It’s one of the best 4K smart TVs you can get for the price.

Best smart TV platform: Google TV

When it comes to the software that makes smart TVs tick, the change that impressed us most for 2021 was the move to Google TV. It’s already available on Sony's 2021 TVs, with TCL to follow in the coming months, and enhances Android TV with a redesigned interface that improves the navigation and content recommendations.

Plus, Google TV even adds some features we've never seen elsewhere, like accounts for individual users and really smart parental controls. It also takes advantage of Google's compatibility with other devices so you can update watchlists from your phone or laptop, and share info between different devices. It all adds up to the best smart TV experience we've seen in a while.

Highly Recommended: Samsung Tizen
While Samsung has always added unique functionality to its smart TVs, especially for Samsung phone users, the latest version of Tizen gets especially clever. Features like the ability to connect a webcam and use Google Duo video chat directly on the TV seem especially timely, as do fitness programs that can offer you feedback on your technique.

Best TV design: LG G1 OLED TV

When it comes to sleek TV designs, it's hard to ignore the slim, wall-hanging LG G1 OLED TV. The 20-millimeter-thick chassis design houses all of the components and speakers in a body that's made for easy wall-mounting without requiring professional installation, or even a separate TV mount. That design isn't new (it's virtually identical to its 2020 predecessor), but LG has taken the opportunity to showcase its new OLED evo technology exclusively in the G1 OLED TV, making it the best-looking set we've seen, whether it's on or off.

Highly Recommended: Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV
If you want a pretty TV, it's also worth considering the Samsung Neo QLED Q90A. As the premier 4K Smart TV from Samsung, it gets the full treatment, with a chassis design that looks almost as good from behind as it does from the front. 

Best gaming TV: Samsung QN90A Neo QLED TV

The Samsung Neo QLED QN90A is a superb (if premium) option for console gaming, with an excellent 12.6 millisecond lag time, 120Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 connectivity. You'll also get features like auto low-latency mode (ALLM) and variable refresh rate (VRR), plus several that you won’t find elsewhere such as advanced frame-rate syncing options and a built-in menu that can tweak settings to optimize them for gaming. Throw in the fact that it also offers brilliant picture quality and sound, and the QN90A is a fantastic choice for gamers.

Highly Recommended: TCL 6-Series Roku TV (R635)
The TCL 6-Series Roku TV R635 boasts gamer-friendly features such as ALLM, VRR and a THX Certified Game Mode, but at a very reasonable price for a 4K set.

Best streaming device: Chromecast with Google TV

Chromecast with Google TV takes the already-noble Chromecast and gives it a bunch of new skills that make it better than ever. You can do more than just cast streams to this Chromecast, as Google TV apps give it access to every single streaming service, while the neat remote feels great in the hand and doesn’t overdo the promotional buttons.

That said, the Chromecast with Google TV is the best new streaming device of the past year because of the way it mixes affordability with quality audio and video. Yes, for just $50 you can get a 4K UHD streaming device with HDR, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, but without having to use an ad-filled operating system.

Highly Recommended: Roku Express 4K Plus
The $40 Roku Express 4K Plus is an even-more affordable 4K UHD streaming device, although not quite as full-featured.

Best live tv streaming service: Sling TV

When we want to stream live TV, we're increasingly looking at Sling TV as the best of the field. Not only does it have the lowest entry-level price at $35 per month for Sling Blue or Sling Orange, but it's got most (if not all) of the channels we at Tom's Guide need to watch. And if one of those entry-level packages isn't enough, the $50 per month Orange and Blue set probably will do the trick, while still being cheaper than the competition.

On top of that, Sling is also upgrading its interface, rolling out new apps to all the different streaming device platforms. This update gives DVR the space on your screen it deserves, and makes it easy to play favorites and select the channels you watch most often.

Highly Recommended: YouTube TV
We're excited to hear that YouTube TV is adding Dolby 5.1 surround sound soon, and you can already get 4K streaming and offline downloads for $20 extra.

Best sports streaming service: Sling TV

Sling TV isn't known for sports, but it should be. When it’s time to watch the playoffs, Finals and Super Bowls, they've got most of the channels you really need. Yes, even without ABC, you can catch all of that network's NBA playoffs games on Sling, as ESPN3 is simulcasting those games. Key in this lineup is TNT, which basketball fans are going to want and which isn’t on every rival. 

Sling TV's also got the ESPN and FOX channels for nationally broadcast-MLB games, as well as many of the networks football fans will want for the upcoming NFL season. And if the channel you want isn’t available, add-ons will give you access to plenty more so you can just pay for what you need.

Highly Recommended: Fubo TV
Beloved by sports fans for a reason, Fubo TV has college sports channels, the Tennis Channel, FS1 and FS2, CBS, NBC, Fox, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN 3 and the NFL Network. Want more? Then there's NBC Golf, the beIN sports channels and the NFL, NHL, NBA and MLB networks.

Best streaming service for original programming: HBO Max

HBO Max's content has consistently been top-notch. Our favorite HBO Max Originals include Hacks, Made For Love and the excellent murder mystery The Flight Attendant, which found Kaley Cuoco in top form. Speaking of Cuoco, HBO Max became the new home for her other great original show: Harley Quinn, which may be one of the funniest comic book shows to date. Of course HBO Max also includes the best HBO shows, such as the spooky and underrated Lovecraft Country and Mare of Easttown. The latter proved to be super-buzzy, as it got everybody raving about Kate Winslet (again) and talking about Pennsylvania accents.

Highly Recommended: Disney Plus
Disney Plus had a very big hit with WandaVision, and Hamilton drew a ton of eyes, while Falcon and Winter Soldier and Loki gave folks reason to keep their subscriptions active.

Best streaming service original show: WandaVision

Wanda Maximoff and The Vision were never truly given enough time to shine in the MCU, so they proved to be perfect leads for the first Disney Plus Marvel series. On top of that, WandaVision gave us something new for the MCU: the "mystery box" show format that's been made famous by shows such as Lost. Some surprises were bigger than others, and we'll all remember how they re-cast Pietro, at least for a short while. 

Each week, we got to peel back another thin layer of the mystery of Westview, a New Jersey suburb that our heroes lived in despite not understanding it. And once we finally found the big, bad boss at the center of that mystery box, we got a jam to dance to as a bonus. WandaVision truly thrived, though, because it got to tell a story about how we process grief, and that really helped it stand out in a sea of spandex adventures.

Highly Recommended: The Flight Attendant
HBO Max Original The Flight Attendant proved to be an excellent pulpy mystery, and gave Big Bang Theory doubters reason to believe in Kaley Cuoco.

Best streaming device interface: Apple tvOS 

Apple tvOS is the most superbly stripped-down streaming device OS there is. Apple just gives you a series of app tiles, without ads in the corners or in screensavers, and it really works. Alright, so an Apple TV 4K isn’t cheap, at $179, but the Apple tvOS interface is so damn good that it’s worth it. Plus, its TV app does a great job of collecting many of the shows you've been watching lately, giving you the option to restart where you left off.

Highly Recommended: Roku OS
Roku's OS is still nice and simple, putting the focus on your apps and providing a gateway to free content in The Roku Channel.

Best streaming device remote: Roku Voice Remote Pro

This year, Roku finally got the memo about rechargeable remotes, as the new Roku Voice Remote Pro does away with disposable batteries. You simply plug the included USB cord into the bottom of the remote and a charger, and you're one step closer to forgetting why you keep ordering more AA batteries online. Plus, you can use your voice to find it when you inevitably misplace it: just say "Hey Roku, where's my remote?" and it’ll emit a chime noise. You also get programmable buttons and at just $29, it's half the price of the other remote everyone was talking about this year.

Highly Recommended: Apple TV Remote
The new $59 Apple TV Remote eschews the divisive touchpad design for directional buttons, something it's long needed to do.

Best streaming app: Disney Plus

The Disney Plus app just gets better and better, with useful features such as remote Group Watch viewing and forthcoming support for Apple’s SharePlay service beating others to the punch. It’s also incredibly easy to use, for instance listing out the Marvel movies in order by MCU phase for maximum convenience. Plus, it earns points for giving you everything in the highest resolution available, and for listing when its Disney Plus Premier Access movies will be available to watch for free online — a nice touch that it didn’t need to do.

Highly Recommended: Apple TV
The Apple TV app offers a great way to figure out what to watch next, consolidating your activity from a variety of services.

Best free streaming service: Pluto TV

If you haven't taken a look at Pluto TV recently, you should definitely give it a try: it’s packed with the kind of options you’d only expect to see on paid TV. Those start with the first Hunger Games movie on the Pluto TV Action channel, and dedicated channels for Bar Rescue and Forensic Files, giving you the marathons you may desire. It's also got live news channels from CBS, CNN, NBC and other sources, plus plenty of content in the crime, reality TV and comedy sections. Impressive stuff.

Highly Recommended: Peacock
The free tier of Peacock has lots of excellent films and content, letting you sample its new premium shows such as Girls5eva without paying. 

Tubi is an ad-supported free streaming service that many people are curious about, especially after Fox bought Tubi for $440 million. 

Tubi offers over 20,000 free TV shows and movies to watch. Their library holds content from studios including Paramount, MGM and Lionsgate and networks including A&E, Lifetime and Starz. The company says it has 25 million active monthly viewers who spend over 160 million hours per month watching content on Tubi. 

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Tubi is one of several free streaming services, which is an expanding market. ViacomCBS bought Pluto TV last year, while Comcast bought Xumo in February 2020.

Tubi explained

Tubi is a video streaming service, not unlike Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video and others, with a vast library of television shows and movies you can stream from your phone, smart TV or streaming device at no charge. The only catch is that you'll need to watch some ads while you stream its content.

Tubi price

Yes, Tubi is actually free. No lie. It might be difficult to fathom in a world dominated by fear of piracy that a streaming video service could be free and legal, but, yes, Tubi is legal.

The secret ingredient in Tubi's business model is advertising. The company is trying to use the appeal of "free" to bring more and more people to its service. It then charges advertisers to connect with those customers.

Those ads run before and during a movie or television show, so you'll definitely be seeing them often. They're not so bad, though — at 15 seconds to 30 seconds, it's not hard to get through them. However, they're unskippable, so if you try to race through them, you won't be able to.

Tubi TV and movies

Tubi's library size of more than 20,000 movies and television shows is surprisingly big for a service that hasn't yet reached mainstream status like Netflix and Hulu.

Tubi was able to amass that much content by partnering with more than 250 providers, including Hollywood heavyweights Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM. You'll also find programming from A&E, Complex Networks and others.

In terms of the actual shows and films, it's a bit of a mixed bag. There are some downright popular options on the service, like Hell's Kitchen, Duck Dynasty and others. But on the movie front, you won't find the latest and greatest hits.

Tubi has a handy Most Popular section, which gives you some insight into the most well-known movies  it offers. As of this writing, the 2011 Johnny Depp film Rango is tops, followed by Pride and Glory; the documentaries Little Women: Atlanta, Lionheart, Rock Dog and Congo are also sitting at the top of the list.

You'll also find a host of categories that aim to help you find content you like. For instance, there are TV dramas, anime, "classics" for old-school favorites, and "preschool" for child-friendly programming.

Arguably, Tubi's most interesting category is "Not on Netflix," a collection of films and television shows that, for one reason or another, you can't get on Netflix. But this category is like everything else on the service, a collection of mostly misses (including Rob Schneider's The Animal and Bulletproof Monk starring Chow-Yun Fat and Seann William Scott) and a rare hit or two (such as the 2010 True Grit remake).

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Tubi reviews

Tubi got a positive review over at CordCutting, which gave high marks for its interface and clever categories. The site noted that while Tubi's library is limited, compared to the big titans like Netflix, that's to be understood because it's free and meant to be supplementary material. Lifewire also recommended the service, noting how short its ad breaks are.

Tubi app

Tubi offers a slew of options for getting the service onto your TV, including apps on Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Chromecast. We've got links to all of those app stores below. Tubi is also available on the PS4 and Xbox One. And if you're a Comcast Xfinity or Tivo user, you'll find Tubi apps on those platforms, as well.

• Amazon Fire
• Android (Google Play Store)
• iOS, iPadOS, tvOS (Apple)
• Roku
• Windows (Microsoft)

Smart TVs and Blu-ray players from Samsung and Sony also work with Tubi.

Tubi is also available via web browsers at tubitv.com. So, if you're looking to watch it from your laptop or Chromebook, head on over there and you'll find all the content you want.

On the mobile side, you'll find Tubi is available in both Apple's App Store and the Google Play marketplace, so you can access it on just about any iPhone or Android device available now.

Tubi lacks sports and live programming

Sorry, but if you're looking for live channels, you're out of luck. Tubi only provides content that's already aired or premiered on the silver screen (or your home theater).

There aren't any live sports events on the service, either. However, if you search for sports programming, you'll find some options, including Driving Sports and Sports Adventures.

Tubi flaws

If you're interested in Tubi, you might be wondering what you won't get out of the service. For one, Tubi doesn't come with much, if any, new or original content. What you'll find here is a nice library of media, but not necessarily a boatload of brand-new shows and films. And since there's no live television, Tubi doesn't come with a cloud DVR. It does, however, have a queue that will let you save stuff for easy access later on.

Tubi outlook

If you're looking to watch some older films and television shows, Tubi might be a great place to start. It's free, has plenty of shows and movies for folks interested in any genre and comes with a nice interface.

If you're someone who just enjoys content and you don't necessarily have a particular show or movie you just have to watch, you can have fun on Tubi finding programming. But if you're into the latest and greatest hits or you want to check out exceedingly popular films and television series, Tubi might not be for you.

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