Flixster, once a prominent platform for movie reviews, trailers, and social networking, has undergone significant changes, transitioning away from its original streaming service. Consequently, watching movies directly through Flixster in the traditional sense is no longer possible; its digital movie UltraViolet library was acquired by FandangoNow (now Fandango at Home), and subsequently migrated to Vudu. Therefore, accessing your previously purchased Flixster movies requires understanding the current landscape and the options available through these associated platforms.
Understanding Flixster’s Evolution
Flixster wasn’t always just a review site. It initially offered digital movie ownership through its UltraViolet partnership. UltraViolet allowed users to redeem digital codes found in physical Blu-ray and DVD copies, building a virtual library accessible across various platforms. However, UltraViolet shut down in 2019. Thankfully, most accounts were seamlessly transferred to other providers. This section explores the journey from Flixster’s original movie-watching capabilities to the current options.
The Rise and Fall of UltraViolet
UltraViolet was a pioneering digital rights locker system designed to allow users to watch movies and TV shows purchased from various sources in a centralized online location. It offered a degree of portability and convenience previously unavailable. However, it eventually succumbed to market forces, including competition from larger streaming services and evolving consumer habits. The closure of UltraViolet meant users needed to transfer their libraries elsewhere.
From Flixster to FandangoNow (and Now Vudu)
Following the demise of UltraViolet, many Flixster users found their digital movie libraries migrated to FandangoNow. FandangoNow itself was subsequently acquired and rebranded as Fandango at Home. However, in 2021, Fandango at Home partnered with Vudu, leading to the consolidation of digital movie libraries onto the Vudu platform. This means your previously purchased Flixster movies are most likely located on Vudu today.
How to Access Your Flixster Movies Through Vudu
The primary way to access movies you previously acquired through Flixster is now through your Vudu account. This requires ensuring your accounts are properly linked. The process involves the following steps:
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Check for Account Linking: If you had linked your Flixster account to your UltraViolet account and then to a FandangoNow account, you should have already been migrated to Vudu. Vudu typically sends email notifications regarding this migration.
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Create or Log in to Your Vudu Account: If you don’t have a Vudu account, create one. If you do, log in using the same email address associated with your previous UltraViolet or FandangoNow account.
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Browse Your Vudu Library: Once logged in, navigate to your Vudu library. Your previously purchased Flixster movies should be listed there.
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Troubleshooting: If you don’t see your movies, contact Vudu customer support. Be prepared to provide information about your previous Flixster and UltraViolet accounts, including email addresses and any purchase confirmations you may have.
What If My Movies Aren’t Showing Up on Vudu?
Several reasons could explain why your movies aren’t showing up on Vudu:
- Incorrect Account Linking: You might have used a different email address for your Flixster, UltraViolet, and Vudu accounts. Double-check all associated email addresses.
- Migration Issues: Sometimes, technical glitches can occur during the migration process. Contact Vudu support to report the issue.
- Missed Deadlines: While migration was generally seamless, there might have been deadlines for transferring your library. Contact Vudu support to see if your account is still eligible for migration.
- Content Ownership Changes: In rare cases, licensing agreements change, and some movies may no longer be available. This is less common but can happen.
Alternative Options (If Vudu Doesn’t Work)
While Vudu is the primary platform for accessing your Flixster movies, there are a few alternative scenarios to consider. These are less likely to be applicable but worth investigating:
- Check for Redeemed Codes: If you have any physical Blu-ray or DVD copies with digital codes that you didn’t redeem on Flixster, try redeeming them on Vudu or Movies Anywhere.
- Movies Anywhere: If you linked your UltraViolet account to Movies Anywhere before its closure, your movies might be accessible through Movies Anywhere and subsequently through linked services like iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, or Google Play Movies & TV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 12 frequently asked questions about accessing Flixster movies, designed to provide further clarification and address common concerns:
FAQ 1: Is Flixster still a streaming service?
No, Flixster is no longer a direct streaming service. Its movie library was migrated to FandangoNow and subsequently to Vudu. Flixster primarily functions as a movie review and information platform now.
FAQ 2: Can I still redeem UltraViolet codes on Flixster?
No, UltraViolet shut down in 2019, so you can no longer redeem codes directly on Flixster. Try redeeming them on Vudu or Movies Anywhere.
FAQ 3: How do I link my Flixster account to Vudu?
Directly linking a Flixster account to Vudu is no longer possible. The migration process from UltraViolet to FandangoNow to Vudu should have automatically transferred your movies if your accounts were linked at each stage. Focus on ensuring your Vudu account uses the same email address as your previous accounts.
FAQ 4: What if I don’t remember my UltraViolet login information?
Contact Vudu customer support. Provide them with any information you remember about your UltraViolet and Flixster accounts, such as email addresses, purchase confirmations, and movie titles. They may be able to help you locate your account.
FAQ 5: Can I watch Flixster movies on my TV?
Yes, you can watch your Flixster movies (now located on Vudu) on your TV through the Vudu app. Vudu is available on most smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku and Apple TV, and gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.
FAQ 6: Is there a fee to use Vudu to watch my migrated Flixster movies?
No, there is no fee to access movies you already own on Vudu after the migration. You only pay for new movies you purchase or rent on the Vudu platform.
FAQ 7: What happens if a movie I owned on Flixster is no longer available on Vudu?
In rare cases, licensing agreements may change, and a movie may no longer be available. Unfortunately, there is often little recourse in such situations. Contact Vudu support to inquire about the specific movie and any potential compensation.
FAQ 8: Can I download my Flixster movies from Vudu to watch offline?
Yes, Vudu allows you to download many of your purchased movies for offline viewing on compatible devices (smartphones, tablets). Check the individual movie details on Vudu to confirm download availability.
FAQ 9: Will my Flixster movie quality be the same on Vudu?
Generally, the movie quality should be the same, often in HD or even 4K if supported. However, the specific resolution may depend on the original encoding and the capabilities of your viewing device and internet connection.
FAQ 10: What is Movies Anywhere, and can it help me with my Flixster movies?
Movies Anywhere is a service that allows you to consolidate your digital movie purchases from different platforms (iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, etc.) into a single library. If you linked your UltraViolet account to Movies Anywhere before UltraViolet’s closure, your movies might be accessible through Movies Anywhere.
FAQ 11: How can I contact Vudu customer support for help with my Flixster movie library?
You can contact Vudu customer support through their website (Vudu.com) via their help center. Look for the “Contact Us” or “Support” section. You can also often find helpful information in their FAQ section.
FAQ 12: Is there a way to get a refund for movies I can’t access anymore?
Refunds are generally not offered for movies that were migrated from Flixster to Vudu. However, it’s always worth contacting Vudu customer support to explain your situation and inquire about potential options, especially if you experienced significant technical issues during the migration process.
Conclusion
While watching movies directly on Flixster is no longer possible, understanding the platform’s evolution and the subsequent migration of digital libraries to Vudu empowers you to access your previously purchased films. By following the steps outlined in this guide and utilizing the provided FAQs, you can navigate the complexities of digital movie ownership and enjoy your movie collection on Vudu. Remember to check your account details, contact Vudu support if needed, and explore alternative options like Movies Anywhere to maximize your access to your digital movie library.