Downloading movies directly from Flixster in the way you might imagine – as in, finding a “download” button and saving a file to your device – is no longer possible. Warner Bros., which acquired Flixster, ultimately discontinued the app and its associated streaming services. However, if you have previously purchased movies through Flixster, there are still ways to access and potentially transfer your digital library. This guide explores those options and provides valuable insights into managing your digital film collection.
The Demise of Flixster and What It Means for Your Library
Flixster, once a popular platform for movie reviews, trailers, and digital film purchases, transitioned primarily into a review and community site. The actual streaming and download functionality associated with purchased movies has been phased out. This change stems from the evolution of digital distribution models and the consolidation of streaming services under larger media conglomerates.
The impact of this transition is significant for users who amassed a digital library through Flixster. Many found themselves wondering how to access their previously purchased content. The good news is that Warner Bros. provided a pathway to migrate your Flixster library to Movies Anywhere, a digital locker service that aggregates movie purchases from various platforms.
Transferring Your Flixster Library to Movies Anywhere
The key to accessing your Flixster movies lies in the Movies Anywhere platform. This service acts as a central hub, connecting your movie purchases from various retailers like iTunes, Google Play, Amazon Prime Video, and, formerly, Flixster.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Create a Movies Anywhere Account: If you don’t already have one, visit the Movies Anywhere website or download the app and create an account.
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Link Your Flixster Account: During the initial setup or within the account settings, you should find an option to link your various movie accounts. Look for the Flixster option. If Flixster is no longer directly listed, look for instructions on the Movies Anywhere help pages, as Warner Bros. may have implemented an automated transfer process.
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Verify Your Library: After linking your accounts, your eligible Flixster movies should automatically appear in your Movies Anywhere library. This may take some time, so be patient.
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Connect to Other Retailers: To maximize the benefit of Movies Anywhere, link your accounts from other movie retailers (iTunes, Google Play, Amazon Prime Video, etc.). This allows you to watch your movies on any platform connected to Movies Anywhere.
Important Considerations for Movies Anywhere
- Movie Availability: Not all movies purchased on Flixster are eligible for Movies Anywhere. This depends on the studio’s participation in the Movies Anywhere program. Check the Movies Anywhere website for a list of participating studios.
- Redemption Codes: If you have any unredeemed Flixster redemption codes, try redeeming them directly through Movies Anywhere.
- Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues transferring your library, consult the Movies Anywhere help center. They have dedicated support for issues related to Flixster migration.
Alternative Options: Streaming and Physical Media
If transferring your Flixster library to Movies Anywhere proves problematic or if certain movies are unavailable, consider alternative methods for accessing your favorite films:
Subscription Streaming Services
Many movies previously available on Flixster are now accessible through various subscription streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. Explore these platforms to see if your desired titles are included in their offerings.
Purchasing Physical Media
While digital distribution is convenient, owning physical copies of your favorite movies (Blu-ray or DVD) ensures you have access to them regardless of platform availability or internet connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Is Flixster still a viable option for watching purchased movies?
No. Flixster, in its capacity as a movie streaming and downloading service, has been discontinued. The platform now primarily serves as a movie review and community website. You can no longer purchase or directly download movies from Flixster.
FAQ 2: What happens if I can’t transfer my Flixster movies to Movies Anywhere?
If you’re unable to transfer your movies, contact Movies Anywhere support. Provide them with proof of purchase from Flixster (e.g., order confirmations or transaction history). They may be able to assist you in manually adding the titles to your library, although this isn’t guaranteed. If that fails, sadly, those movies may be lost due to the platform shutdown.
FAQ 3: Are all movies I bought on Flixster eligible for Movies Anywhere?
Not necessarily. Eligibility depends on the specific studio’s participation in the Movies Anywhere program. Only movies from participating studios are transferable. Check the Movies Anywhere website for a list of participating studios.
FAQ 4: How do I redeem a Flixster redemption code on Movies Anywhere?
During the Movies Anywhere account setup, or within your account settings, there should be an option to redeem codes. Enter the code in the designated field. If you have issues, contact Movies Anywhere support.
FAQ 5: Can I download movies from Movies Anywhere for offline viewing?
Yes, Movies Anywhere allows you to download movies to your devices (phones, tablets) for offline viewing. This is a crucial feature for travel or situations where internet access is limited.
FAQ 6: Is Movies Anywhere free to use?
Yes, Movies Anywhere is a free service. However, you need to have purchased movies from participating retailers to populate your library.
FAQ 7: Will Warner Bros. ever bring back the Flixster movie streaming service?
Given the current landscape of streaming services and Warner Bros.’ focus on HBO Max (now Max), it’s unlikely that the Flixster movie streaming service will be revived.
FAQ 8: What are the alternative platforms similar to the old Flixster?
Platforms like Vudu, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video all offer digital movie purchases and rentals. These platforms also often participate in the Movies Anywhere program, allowing you to consolidate your digital library.
FAQ 9: What if I no longer have my Flixster account information?
Contact Warner Bros. customer support (though finding the right channel might be tricky). Provide them with as much information as possible, such as your name, email address used for the account, and any purchase history you can provide. They may be able to help you recover your account or assist with transferring your library.
FAQ 10: Can I transfer movies from Movies Anywhere to other services?
While Movies Anywhere allows you to connect your accounts from different retailers, it primarily serves as a central hub. You can access your movies on connected platforms, but you cannot directly transfer movies out of Movies Anywhere to other services beyond the connected retailers.
FAQ 11: What happens if Movies Anywhere shuts down in the future?
This is a valid concern. If Movies Anywhere were to shut down, it’s likely that Warner Bros. or another company would offer a similar migration path, as they did with Flixster. However, there’s no guarantee. This highlights the inherent risk of relying solely on digital ownership. Consider physical media as a safeguard.
FAQ 12: Are there any legal ways to download movies from streaming services besides Movies Anywhere downloads?
Officially, no. Downloading movies directly from streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ without their permission violates copyright laws. While there are third-party tools that claim to download content, using them is illegal and could expose you to malware or legal repercussions. Only use the download features offered by the streaming services themselves.