The Criterion Channel

The Criterion Channel

Watch classic movies and more

14K ratings
1329 reviews
#67 in top-grossing Entertainment
🎬 Entertainment
Free
In-App Purchases

Details

Released
April 8, 2019
Updated
October 30, 2026

Features

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The Criterion Channel screenshot #7 for iPhone
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About

Access thousands of classic, foreign, art-house, and independent films, along with exclusive bonus features. Stream ad-free on multiple devices and download content for offline viewing. Discover curated collections and guest picks from renowned filmmakers.

✓Thousands of classic and international films
✓Exclusive bonus features
✓Ad-free streaming
✓Offline viewing
✓Curated collections
✓Guest picks from filmmakers
✓High-quality video and surround sound
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What users say about The Criterion Channel

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+1

What's New in The Criterion Channel

11.0.5

October 30, 2026

* Performance improvements * Bug fixes

2

Subscriptions & In-App Purchases

Criterion Channel Subscription

Subscribe for full access to our library

$10.991 Month
7 Days trial
How to cancel The Criterion Channel subscription ⁉️

Charts

Top Grossing

📈 67+1

Entertainment

This app rose +1 position in Entertainment chart.

Last updated on November 5, 2026.

User reviews

Merger disaster

After the Criterion Channel (which I subscribed to via Apple)and criterion.com (which I subscribed to independently) merged into one system, in September, I have been unable to use this app and have gotten no response from the company. When I click Restore Purchase, I am taken to a login screen, but the site does not recognize the Hide My Email address Apple assigned me. So I paid for a year of this app but got nine months before it stopped working, and have no idea whether I will ever be able to get a fix or a refund. This would be unsurprising from a startup, but from a venerable company it ought to be humiliating.
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App Messed up

Always have to restart a movie/search for what I was watching…and the speed playback option was removed which is just dumb. An extremely awful app for a very incredible company.

Great selection of movies, great app

A great selection of movies and they finally updated the app! Everything you expect from a video streaming service finally works. You can even search the entire library inside the app. Took a long time but I can now recommend Criterion wholeheartedly.

App no longer available on TV

Paid an annual fee here, only to have my main method of watching (Smart TV) go unavailable for two months and counting.

Version 11 broken

The update of the app to version 11 broke my ability to use my subscription. It will not let me restore purchase or login. It just goes straight to an error page. Support mentioned they are working on this but have offered no ETA on a resolution. The update looks nice, but unfortunately I’m unable to use it. So, I’m stuck paying for a service that I am unable to enjoy. My phone is only 1 year old and I’ve deleted & reinstalled the app, updated to the latest iOS version, and nothing helps. If something changes I will update my review but this has been frustrating.
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User experience

🐞

Reported Bugs

3 issues

Frequent playback interruptions and freezing

Bug

Unreliable offline viewing and download issues

Bug

Inconsistent app performance across devices

Bug
✨

Requested Features

5 requests

Ability to view full catalog of available titles

Feature

More advanced search and filtering tools

Feature

Improved playback stability and offline functionality

Feature

Personalized recommendations based on viewing history

Feature

Ratings and user reviews system

Feature

FAQ

What is Criterion Channel?

Criterion Channel is a subscription-based streaming service offering a curated selection of classic, foreign, art-house, and independent films, along with exclusive bonus features. It provides an ad-free viewing experience across various devices.

How much does Criterion Channel cost?

Criterion Channel offers monthly subscriptions for $10.99 and yearly subscriptions for $99.99, both including a 7-day free trial. Pricing may vary by region and is confirmed before purchase within the app.

Can I watch Criterion Channel offline?

Yes, you can download movies and extras you love for offline viewing on Criterion Channel. This feature allows you to watch content without an internet connection.

What devices support Criterion Channel?

Criterion Channel is available on Apple TV, iPhone, and iPad. You can also stream on web browsers and gaming consoles, offering flexibility for home and on-the-go viewing.

Does Criterion Channel have ads?

No, Criterion Channel offers unlimited ad-free streaming. You can enjoy all films and bonus features without any commercial interruptions.

How do I cancel my Criterion Channel subscription?

To cancel your Criterion Channel subscription, you need to disable auto-renewal at least 24 hours before the end of your current billing cycle. Cancellations are managed through your account settings after the initial payment.

What kind of films can I find on Criterion Channel?

Criterion Channel features a vast library including major Hollywood hits, classic films, foreign cinema, art-house movies, and independent productions from around the world. It also includes original series and guest picks from filmmakers.

What are the main criticisms of Criterion Channel?

User reviews suggest that some find it difficult to browse the full catalog and that search and filtering options are limited. There have also been occasional reports of playback issues and interruptions.