As an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the author added a concentration in film studies to their English degree, which furthered their love for movies. They were required to watch between four to seven films per week for assignments and their honors thesis. Kanopy, a streaming service with a catalog of over 30,000 films, became a valuable resource during this time. The author had free access to Kanopy with their university email address and continued to use it for free after graduating with their public library card. The process of creating a Kanopy account involves selecting a library system or university, providing personal information, and verifying the email address to start streaming.
After signing up for Kanopy, users are limited to streaming up to 10 titles per month, with the credits renewing at the beginning of each calendar month. This limitation is in place because Kanopy operates on a pay-per-checkout model, where libraries pay a fee each time a title is checked out. By limiting the number of checkouts, libraries can manage their budgets more effectively. The platform offers a diverse range of films, including award-winning foreign films, critically acclaimed movies, documentaries, classic films from the Criterion Collection, and content from PBS and the Great Courses. Some notable films available on Kanopy include Moonlight, Lady Bird, Memento, and more.
In addition to a wide selection of films, Kanopy also offers seasonal collections to cater to various themes and holidays. The Holiday Collection features Christmas films and documentaries, while the Winter Collection includes storybook videos with a winter theme. The Fright Fest collection, released in October, offers a curated selection of Halloween favorites, including horror films, thrillers, and slashers. Some of the films included in the Fright Fest collection are Immaculate, Possession, Suspiria, and Nosferatu. Users can explore these seasonal collections to find films that suit their mood or the occasion.
Creating a Kanopy account allows users to access a vast library of films, TV shows, and documentaries for free, without ads. The platform’s catalog includes a variety of genres and types of content, making it suitable for diverse preferences. While there is a limit of 10 titles per month, users can explore different collections and genres to make the most of their streaming experience. Whether you are a film enthusiast, student, or simply looking for alternative streaming options, Kanopy offers a valuable resource for discovering and enjoying a wide range of films. With the ability to access Kanopy through both university and public library accounts, users can continue to explore and engage with quality cinema content.
