Access new movies without a subscription
Rakuten TV is a web-based multimedia application that allows users to watch movies. It is not a subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service like Netflix, but rather a transactional video-on-demand (TVOD). This means you simply pay to watch whatever movie you like from its catalog. It offers digital purchase and rental of all major movie releases, simultaneously with the DVD and Blu-Ray counterparts. The app has an extensive back catalog of titles available, so you will have tons of movie options.
Free and paid movie service
Most reliable video streaming services require payment for users to watch their offered content. The same goes for Rakuten TV. However, while its top tiers all come with premium price tags attached, it does operate an AVOD—Advertising VOD—section. You only need to create an account and log in to access this gratis stuff. The Rakuten TV free movie selection is a mix of SD and HD. However, do not expect to see high-rating movies.
Navigation of the app is very basic. There is a universal search bar that has a drop-down menu containing the genres and themed collection. For easier and organized viewing, you can create your playlist in the Wishlist section. You can also store the contents you bought or rented in the My Library section. This function automatically saves your purchases.
Rakuten TV supports up to 4K UHD video quality in some movies. The sound and video quality on all content are also above average, albeit device-dependent. If you want steady streaming, you need to have a strong internet connection and the proper device. Ironically, while the stream quality is high, the Rakuten TV interface is in lower resolution SD.
Good streaming alternative
If you want to stream movies, then Rakuten TV is a reasonable option. If you don’t own Apple TV, this app is arguably the next best 4K source of early releases. It is less attractive when it comes to catalog content, but it offers a bargain price stream now and then. More, it offers an early route to new movies in the theatrical circuit. All in all, it is a nice choice to have if you are migrating away from disc ownership.
