AMC Networks has relaunched Sundance Now as a dedicated streaming destination for independent film, positioning the service as a hand-curated, algorithm-free alternative to mainstream platforms.

The revamped Sundance Now is designed to mirror the experience of a local arthouse cinema, combining new theatrical releases, festival favourites and a deep catalogue of curated titles selected by film specialists rather than recommendation algorithms. AMC Networks says the approach is aimed at audiences seeking discovery driven by taste and expertise, rather than automated viewing patterns.

The service launches with more than 1,000 hours of programming, spanning critically acclaimed work from established filmmakers and emerging voices across drama, documentary and genre cinema. Titles will include films arriving direct from their theatrical runs, first-run premieres and exclusive content tied to major film festivals.

AMC Networks said the relaunch builds on its long-standing relationship with independent film and the legacy of Robert Redford, bringing the spirit of the Sundance Film Festival into the home.

“As the global leader in targeted streaming, AMC Networks brings deep expertise in building streaming products that connect with passionate communities,” said Courtney Thomasma, executive vice president of AMC Networks’ linear and streaming products. “Sundance Now will be a home for both filmmakers and film enthusiasts, promoting access and discovery through curation.”

As part of its renewed focus, Sundance Now is an official sponsor of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. The service will host a filmmaker panel at the festival titled Building a Home for Independent Voices & Storytelling, exploring discovery, curation and how audiences connect with independent cinema. The panel will feature Jay Duplass, Amy Redford and Natalie Erika James, alongside Scott Shooman, head of AMC Networks’ IFC Entertainment Group.

Shooman said the aim was to recreate the festival experience year-round. “As audiences have more choice and higher expectations, we wanted to showcase a programme hand-selected across all genres by some of the best curators in the business,” he said. “Sundance Now deepens our commitment to independent film across theatrical and streaming.”

Programming highlights include new film premieres every month, with upcoming titles such as Violent Ends, 100 Nights of Hero, The Plague, Forbidden Fruits and Over Your Dead Body. The service will also introduce Featured Movie Nights every Friday, with weekly spotlight selections tied to cultural moments and seasonal themes.

In addition, Sundance Now will offer film festival spotlights, featuring curated collections of award-winners and audience favourites from festivals including Sundance, TIFF, Venice and Berlin. Launch collections include Sundance Icons, Sundance Thrills and Sundance Docs.

The platform is priced at $7.99 per month and will offer an introductory 50% discount for a limited time. AMC Networks says the service is aimed at both dedicated cinephiles and viewers looking to explore independent film through expert-led curation rather than algorithms.