UPDATE: Letterboxd has just announced the launch of its groundbreaking film rental program, Video Store, set to debut on December 10, 2023. This initiative comes at a crucial time for independent films and international titles, which face increasing barriers to audience reach.
The Video Store aims to provide a platform for films that are often overlooked or unavailable, with a selection that includes nine films at launch, such as Todd Haynes’s Poison and the Indonesian Oscar contender Sore: A Wife from the Future. “Our thought process was simple: is there a way to build upon that mission and passion, by providing films themselves, in a way that is not being done elsewhere?” said Matthew Buchanan, CEO and co-founder of Letterboxd.
The films will be organized into themed “shelves” to enhance discoverability, starting with two categories: Unreleased Gems, featuring recent festival films, and Lost and Found, which highlights beloved titles. “The selection process is directly tied to specific films our members are asking for—via watchlists, ratings, reviews and so on,” Buchanan explained.
Video Store will operate on a Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD) model, meaning no subscription is necessary. The platform will be available in 23 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, with rental prices ranging from $3.99 to $19.99 depending on location. Users can enjoy films on various devices including Apple TV 4K, Chromecast, and mobile platforms.
The initiative aims to support films for a limited time—30 days under the Unreleased Gems category—to extend their festival life. “It is a temporary, controlled environment where films can earn revenue and demonstrate audience demand,” Buchanan noted.
As Letterboxd continues to grow its community of 24 million global members, the platform has become essential for tracking trends in the film industry. At the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) earlier this year, NBCUniversal Entertainment chairwoman Donna Langley referred to the “Letterboxd generation” for their dedication to cinema and the theatrical experience.
Looking to the future, Buchanan expressed optimism, stating, “We see endless opportunities for Letterboxd Video Store.” The team plans to expand into more countries and explore the possibility of in-person screenings.
This launch represents a significant shift in how independent films can reach audiences, making it a pivotal moment for both filmmakers and cinephiles alike. Stay tuned as more updates unfold about this exciting new venture.
