Where can your film go?
There is no single streaming buyer for an indie film — there are tiers, and your budget, cast and genre decide which tier will even read your email. Pick the tier that matches your film and we walk you through the realistic terms, gatekeepers and steps to get there.
By Will Roberts — updated August 14, 2026
Major Streamers
The big leagues. Highest bar — top-tier specs and a distributor required.
Examples: Netflix · Amazon Prime · Hulu · Apple TV · Disney+ · Max · Peacock · Paramount+
Prestige & Arthouse
Festival-quality, curated homes. The credibility platforms for strong indie work.
Examples: MUBI · Criterion · Sundance Now · Shudder · IFC · BFI · Kanopy
Open & Accessible
Lowest barrier — start here. Free / AVOD / DIY, many direct submissions.
Examples: Hook Cinema · Tubi · Roku · Pluto · Plex · Vimeo · FilmRise
Matched to Your Film
Platforms matched to your film's subject and audience.
Examples: Black cinema · LGBTQ+ · Horror · Documentary · Shorts