Exploring Legal Alternatives for Streaming Anime as Crunchyroll Prices Rise

With Crunchyroll announcing price hikes, many anime fans are looking for alternative platforms to continue enjoying their favorite shows without breaking the bank. This article provides a comprehensive guide to cheaper and legally sound options for streaming anime.

Funimation Netflix

If you're in a country where Funimation has partnered with Netflix, Funimation Netflix is an excellent alternative. It offers a varied selection of anime series and movies in a subscription-based model, providing a cost-effective way to enjoy anime content legally. In many regions, you can sign up for a Netflix plan and access Funimation's content at the same time, making it a versatile option.

Purchasing Digital Copies

Fans with a budget can consider purchasing digital copies of anime series and films through platforms such as Amazon, iTunes, or Google Play. This not only saves money in the long run but also provides the convenience of owning the content, giving you the freedom to watch whenever you like. Buying individual episodes or complete seasons can be a great way to invest in your favorite shows.

Local Libraries

For those who want to explore anime but prefer to avoid spending money, local libraries can be a great resource. Many libraries offer anime DVDs for borrowing, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of titles at no cost. This is a fantastic option for new viewers who want to sample different genres and styles of anime without the risk of investment.

Exploring Regular Movies for Anime Enthusiasts

While Crunchyroll and other streaming services offer a rich collection of anime, there are also legal alternatives that can cater to the diverse tastes of anime fans. Regular movies can be a fun and engaging way to enjoy storytelling and creativity outside the realm of animation.

Universal Themes and Storytelling

Many anime and regular movies share common themes, such as love, loss, growth, and identity. Fans of deep, emotional anime series like 'Your Name' and 'A Silent Voice' might find similar satisfaction in films like 'The Shawshank Redemption' and 'The Departed.' The power of a well-crafted narrative can resonate regardless of the medium, whether it's animated or live-action.

Visual Aesthetics and Artistry

Regular movies are filled with visually striking and innovative content, much like anime. Directors like Wes Anderson, Guillermo del Toro, and Tim Burton create films with distinct visual styles that captivate anime fans. Sci-fi and fantasy movies such as 'Blade Runner 2049,' 'Inception,' and 'The Lord of the Rings' offer a sense of wonder and awe that appeals to fans of mecha, fantasy, and cyberpunk genres.

Complex Storytelling and Philosophical Themes

Anime is known for its deep narrative experiences and thought-provoking ideas. Shows like 'Steins;Gate' and 'Neon Genesis Evangelion' are enjoyed by fans who love complex storytelling and philosophical themes. Similarly, films like 'The Matrix,' 'Interstellar,' and 'Memento' explore themes of reality, perception, and existential questions, appealing to the same sense of intellectual engagement seen in anime.

Cultural Crossovers

Many anime fans appreciate Japanese culture and enjoy watching live-action Japanese films like 'Battle Royale' and 'Shoplifters.' These films offer a familiar yet different experience compared to anime, broadening the love for movies in general. Fans of anime who enjoy international cinema, Asian films, European cinema, or indie films can expand their horizons and find new treasures in regular movies.

Conclusion

While the rise in prices on Crunchyroll and other services creates challenges for anime lovers, there are numerous legal alternatives available. By exploring platforms like Funimation Netflix, purchasing digital copies, and browsing local libraries, fans can continue to enjoy their favorite shows in a budget-friendly manner. Additionally, regular movies offer a rich tapestry of storytelling that can appeal to anime fans, further expanding their horizons and enriching their entertainment experience.