With the ever-increasing cost of movie tickets, streaming services and rentals, you might wonder where and how to watch movies online for free.
Since I love nothing more than getting lost in a good movie (with or without my kids), knowing how to access them without paying saves me heaps. Why pay for something when you don’t have to?
In this article, I share ways to find and watch movies online for free … legally, of course.
So, grab your popcorn, kick back, and get ready to save some serious cash on your next movie marathon.
Free trials on streaming services
If you’re already paying for a streaming service, you’ll be able to watch plenty of movies without forking out more money elsewhere.
For streaming services you’re not paying for, why not give the free trials a whirl?
The most popular streaming services such as Netflix and Binge and Amazon Prime Video all lure new users in with a free trial offer. This could be anywhere between one to four weeks.
The trick is to time your trial when you have plenty of viewing time available. Oh, and remember to cancel it before your trial period ends; otherwise the card you used to start the free trial (yes, you must provide card details to get the trial) will be charged.
YouTube and other video sharing platforms
If you don’t mind ads and commercials, you can score some incredible movies on various video streaming platforms. I found some of my favourite indie films on YouTube, shared for free by the producers and directors.
Aside from YouTube, you can also watch old and new movies and TV shows on platforms like:
- Amazon Freevee
- Roku Channel
- Pluto TV
- Tubi
- Crackle
- Sling Freestream
- Vudu
Most of which have live streams and some top-notch original content.
A lot of these apps don’t require you to sign up for an account. But doing so allows you to continue watching when you switch to a different device. Some ads can be pretty annoying, but that’s the price we pay for free.
Hire DVD’s from your local library
Books are just one of many things you can borrow from your local library. You can also find games, music, movies, and more!
Of course, every library is different. Well-funded libraries will have a more diverse and up-to-date collection of DVDs. On the other hand, you might have to settle for a limited selection of movies if your library is underfunded. Take a look though as you are sure to find a rare gem.
Side note: Did you know you can help your local library get funds by borrowing their resources? Librarians can use your usage data – what types of materials you rent, how many times you’ve borrowed, your queries and recommendations – to request funds from the government and their benefactors.
So, if you want to help your local library get more financial support to buy more movies, definitely check out the DVD section.
Free, local movie screenings
Sometimes, your local library, a film group, a school, or a private organisation hosts free movie screenings on certain occasions. Grab this opportunity to see movies you haven’t seen before (or something you’ve seen before but love watching repeatedly) and discuss with fellow film enthusiasts.
Of course, you must get off your couch and remove your slippers for this one, but it gets you out of the house and it’s fun to watch a movie with others.
This is an excellent way for you to encourage these groups to host more movie screenings. In addition, supporting these events can motivate the organisers to host similar events in the future, giving you more opportunities to catch free movies.
Websites that offer movies online for free
Aside from the video streaming platforms listed above, sometimes a quick Google search is all it takes to watch a movie you want without paying.
There are hundreds of websites that upload movies. Many of them have ads and don’t require signing up.
However, some websites upload content illegally, so there can be some copyright issues. Some can also host malicious content and viruses or steal your data, so check the online reviews first, stick to the “safe” options, and use a VPN service.
Conclusion: How to watch movies online for free
Accessing and enjoying movies online for free in Australia is possible through various legal and legitimate platforms.
By utilising streaming services with free trials, exploring the libraries of ad-supported platforms, and leveraging the resources provided by public libraries, you can happily indulge in your favourite movies without paying or doing anything illegal.
Be sure to exercise caution and be mindful of copyright laws, respecting the rights of content creators.
Happy free viewing everyone!
