The prices of traditional streaming services keep creeping up. The days of password sharing are dwindling. Even services like Netflix that once vowed to never feature ads have implemented a paid ad-supported tier. What’s a broke diva to do?
Well, the good news is there are now plenty of platforms that serve up an immaculate selection of cinematic classics for free with ads, like Tubi. The popular streamer happens to have an insanely vast collection of films, one that many hardcore Letterboxd aficionados consider to be the best among all the streamers (including all the paid services). So whether you’re a broke college student or just trying to survive in this economy, you won’t be poor in entertainment options.
To guide you through the dizzyingly extensive collection of content on Tubi, I’ve rounded up my top five picks if you’re fabulous but on a budget. These movies are best enjoyed with the girls and gays or any time you need a pick-me-up — and you won’t have to pay a cent.
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Photo: Everett Collection This is the ultimate stoner comedy that you don’t need to be stoned to enjoy. It’s After Hours meets Harold & Kumar but with Anna Faris giving one of the greatest comedic performances of all time. Faris plays Jane, a young slacker who goes on a wild journey after unwittingly eating her roommates pot-laced cupcakes. Faris’s line delivery in this film is truly singular and something everyone should experience for themselves. Directed by queer cult classic legend Gregg Araki, the film features a delightful ensemble including Jane Lynch and John Krasinksi. If you need to let out a guttural laugh, Smiley Face is my top recommendation.
Watch smiley face on tubi
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In this coming of age comedy, Thora Birch plays Enid, a sardonic teenager navigating life after high school. Alongside her best friend Rebecca, played by Scarlett Johannson, they meander through Los Angeles as they deal with the real world and the adults in it. Ghost World is one of the realest depictions of codependent teenage girl friendship and what happens to it as the realities of growing up creep in. It’s hilarious, touching, and funny throughout.
watch ghost world on tubi
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Photo: Everett Collection If only I could invent a time machine so I can go clubbing in New York City in the 90’s because that’s all I want to do after watching this movie. Parker Posey is the titular Party Girl who is forced to work at the library with her no-nonsense aunt after her partying ways lands her in jail. Whilst always looking incredibly chic, Posey’s character grows from her bratty ways but never loses her dry yet rapturous charm. Featuring high energy club scenes and equally high energy library scenes, this watch will feel like a fabulous night on the town!
watch party girl on tubi
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Photo: Lorimar Entertainment; Courtesy Everett Collection In this Australian queer road trip comedy, two drag queens and one transgender woman take their show on the road through the wilds of the outback. The film features stunning performances from Hugo Weaving, Terence Stamp, and Guy Pearce (looking the hottest he’s ever looked). The friendship between the three lead characters is the beating heart of this film. Featuring gorgeous cinematography, hypnotizing musical performances and delightful costumes, The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a must watch for all divas.
watch priscilla queen of the desert on tubi
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Photo: Everett Collection This is a controversial film—for good reason—but Paul Verhoeven’s opus has grown comfortably into its cult classic status over the years. Elizabeth Berkely plays Nomi Malone, a young woman who hitchhikes to Las Vegas with dreams of stardom and finds herself working as a Las Vegas showgirl. This is a movie people either love or hate, but for those who lean towards the latter might be more okay with Tubi’s intermittent ad breaks. The film is a spectacle to behold, living up to Vegas’s larger than life ethos. Under its shiny exterior, however, Showgirls uncovers the dark underbelly of the American dream. It’s a highly entertaining and sometimes shocking watch, but one very worth checking out.
Watch showgirls on tubi
