The original 1979 film The Amityville Horror, along with its numerous sequels and remakes, is readily available on various streaming platforms, rental services, and for purchase online. Determining the specific service currently offering it often depends on your region and evolving licensing agreements.
Streaming, Renting, and Buying: A Comprehensive Breakdown
Finding The Amityville Horror can be a haunting experience in itself, not because of demonic forces, but due to the shifting landscape of digital distribution. Here’s a detailed exploration of where to locate this cinematic slice of terror:
Streaming Services
Your best bet for immediate viewing is checking popular streaming services. These platforms frequently cycle content, so availability fluctuates. Regularly check these sites:
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Subscription-Based Services:
- Netflix: While it’s not consistently available, The Amityville Horror (original and remakes) occasionally appears in their rotation. Keep an eye on the “New Releases” and “Horror” categories.
- Hulu: Similar to Netflix, Hulu’s horror catalog expands and contracts. Be sure to browse or search for “Amityville” to see if any of the franchise installments are currently streaming.
- Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video often features a selection of Amityville films. Check both Prime’s included streaming content and options to rent or buy through their store.
- Peacock: NBCUniversal’s streaming service occasionally features older films, and The Amityville Horror has been known to surface here.
- Shudder: Exclusively dedicated to horror, Shudder would be a natural home for The Amityville Horror. However, its presence isn’t guaranteed, so regular checks are recommended.
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Ad-Supported Streaming Services (AVOD):
- Tubi: This free, ad-supported platform frequently hosts classic horror films, making it a good option to check. The availability of The Amityville Horror can vary.
- Freevee: Another ad-supported service from Amazon. Check to see if any Amityville films are on offer.
- Roku Channel: If you have a Roku device, the Roku Channel often features a curated selection of films, sometimes including horror classics.
Rental Services
If streaming isn’t available, renting provides a reliable alternative. Digital rentals typically offer a 48-hour viewing window.
- Major Platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: As mentioned above, Amazon Prime Video provides both rental and purchase options for many films, including The Amityville Horror.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Apple’s digital storefront is another excellent source for renting or buying movies.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google’s platform offers a similar selection of rentals and purchases.
- Vudu: Vudu is a well-stocked platform for digital rentals and purchases, and a strong candidate for finding The Amityville Horror.
- YouTube Movies: Surprisingly, YouTube offers a considerable number of movies for rent and purchase, including horror titles.
Physical Media
For collectors or those with slower internet, physical media remains a viable option.
- DVD and Blu-ray: Search online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart for DVD and Blu-ray copies of The Amityville Horror. Used copies can often be found at discounted prices.
- Local Stores: Don’t forget to check your local media stores or pawn shops for used copies of the film.
Which Amityville Horror Are You Looking For?
It’s crucial to specify which film you’re searching for. The franchise is extensive and includes:
- The Amityville Horror (1979): The original, based on Jay Anson’s book. This is generally what people are looking for.
- Amityville II: The Possession (1982): A prequel that explores the DeFeo murders.
- Amityville 3-D (1983): Capitalizing on the 3-D craze of the era.
- Amityville: The Evil Escapes (1989): A TV movie.
- Amityville Dollhouse (1996): The eighth installment in the series.
- The Amityville Horror (2005): The remake starring Ryan Reynolds.
And many more! Be sure to search using the full title and year to avoid confusion.
FAQs: Demystifying Your Amityville Horror Viewing Options
Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you through the search:
FAQ 1: Is The Amityville Horror (1979) on Netflix right now?
Answer: Availability on Netflix changes frequently. The best way to check is to search for “The Amityville Horror” within the Netflix app or website. If it’s not currently available, add it to your “My List” to receive notifications if it returns.
FAQ 2: Can I watch The Amityville Horror for free?
Answer: Yes, you can potentially watch it for free through ad-supported streaming services like Tubi or Freevee if they are currently offering it. Keep in mind you will have to endure commercial breaks.
FAQ 3: Which Amityville Horror movie is considered the best?
Answer: The original The Amityville Horror (1979) is widely considered the best and most influential film in the franchise.
FAQ 4: Is the story of The Amityville Horror true?
Answer: The veracity of the events depicted in The Amityville Horror is heavily debated. While Ronald DeFeo Jr. did murder his family in the house, the subsequent claims of paranormal activity by the Lutz family have been widely disputed and debunked. Much of the story is considered fictionalized.
FAQ 5: Are all the Amityville Horror movies connected?
Answer: While loosely connected by the infamous house, many of the sequels feature independent storylines and are not directly related to the original family or events. The quality and continuity across the sequels vary considerably.
FAQ 6: Can I rent The Amityville Horror on Amazon Prime Video?
Answer: Yes, typically you can rent The Amityville Horror on Amazon Prime Video. Check the Amazon Prime Video store for rental and purchase options.
FAQ 7: What age rating is The Amityville Horror (1979)?
Answer: The Amityville Horror (1979) is rated R for violence, language, and some disturbing content.
FAQ 8: Does Shudder have any Amityville Horror movies?
Answer: Shudder’s selection changes regularly. While it’s possible that The Amityville Horror or one of its sequels will appear on Shudder, there’s no guarantee. It’s best to check their horror catalog directly.
FAQ 9: Where can I buy a physical copy of The Amityville Horror on Blu-ray?
Answer: You can purchase a Blu-ray copy of The Amityville Horror from online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and potentially from local media stores.
FAQ 10: What is the Amityville Horror house address?
Answer: The address is 112 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, New York. However, the house has been remodeled, and the address is no longer publicly promoted.
FAQ 11: Who starred in the original Amityville Horror movie?
Answer: The original 1979 film starred James Brolin as George Lutz, Margot Kidder as Kathy Lutz, and Rod Steiger as Father Delaney.
FAQ 12: Why are there so many Amityville Horror sequels?
Answer: The original Amityville Horror was a major box office success, sparking numerous sequels due to the enduring fascination with the paranormal and the notoriety of the Amityville house. Many were low-budget productions that exploited the name recognition.