There are a number of hidden gems in the bunch.
"Could I interest you in everything? All of the time?" Bo Burnham encapsulated the internet-and subscription video on demand or SVOD-quite perfectly in this line from his Netflix special, "Inside." Today's streaming platforms offer a range of video content, from films to series and documentaries, as well as one-off specials. But while the most popular ones like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max are counting subscribers by the millions, there are underrated streaming services that also deserve the spotlight.
1. CuriosityStream
YouTube surfers might know about CuriosityStream through its ads, with "Parks and Recreation" star Nick Offerman encouraging users to check out CuriosityStream, one of the more streaming platforms that offer documentaries and educational programming.
Geared towards those who crave learning, CuriosityStream is one of the underrated streaming services that deserve more attention for its array of feature-length documentaries and informative content. Subscriptions begin at $19.99 per year, which is definitely easy on the pocket, given the number of learning viewers will receive.
2. Criterion Channel
Viewers who are geared towards films and are familiar with the Criterion Collection will enjoy binging movies on the Criterion Channel, which offers almost 3,000 classic films for just $10.99 per month.
Its library features an array of film offerings, as well as curated recommendations from critically acclaimed filmmakers, TIME reported.
3. Screambox
The horror genre truly has a legion of fans all over the world, and Screambox is one of the most underrated streaming services for this group of people. Screambox was founded in 2015 and is owned and operated by AMC Networks.
ScreenRant recommends checking out its original programming like "Character" and "Homicidal Homemaker," as well as more recent B movies such as "Skin Creepers" and "Devil's Acid."
4. Kanopy
Designed to provide free educational content to students, public libraries, and universities, Kanopy is a streaming service that was founded in Australia by entrepreneur Olivia Humphrey in 2008. Its unique business model has attracted a niche audience, as its service is free of charge for students and faculty in a "patron-driven acquisition" style of membership.
It offers an array of independent movies and kid-friendly films and shows. In June 2021, Kanopy was acquired by ebook and audiobook distributor OverDrive Inc., the makers of the award-winning Libby library app and Sora student reading app.
5. Acorn TV
Acorn TV is geared towards bringing the best of European and Australian TV to the US, with popular series such as "Doc Martin" and several adaptations of Agatha Christie's novels. The streaming platform is a long-time distributor of the Acorn Media Group and was launched back in 2013. Today, the streaming service has expanded to offer original content.
Millions of viewers today have switched from cable television to streaming services, as evidenced by the sheer number of subscribers the top five most popular streaming platforms have today. IndieWire reported earlier this year that as of 2021, Netflix remains the most popular with 221.8 million global paid subscribers, followed by Amazon Prime Video's 200 million. Coming in third is Disney+ with 129.8 million worldwide subscribers, followed by HBO Max's 73.8 million. In fifth place is Paramount+ with its 56 million subscribers.
