Why Your Favorite Christian Movies Are Disappearing From Netflix

Have you noticed your favorite faith-based films slowly disappearing from Netflix over the past few months? You’re not alone. Netflix has been quietly removing many Christian movies from their streaming library, and faithful viewers have started to notice. If you’re suddenly unable to find classics like Fireproof, Courageous or God’s Not Dead, don’t worry – it’s not just you. Netflix is on a crusade to eliminate much of their Christian film catalog. Why the purge of heartwarming and inspirational content that so many subscribers enjoy? While Netflix remains tight-lipped on their exact motives, many see it as an attempt to remove content that doesn’t align with their progressive values and vision. Regardless of the reasons, it’s a disappointing blow for viewers looking to Netflix as a source for uplifting and faith-affirming entertainment. The exodus of Christian films continues, even as Netflix introduces edgier and more controversial content. For those yearning for faith-based stories of hope and redemption, the options on Netflix may soon be sparse. But don’t lose heart – where Netflix falters, other streaming services are stepping in.

Netflix’s Content Strategy: Originals Over Licensed

Netflix started as a licensed content platform, offering TV shows and movies from major studios. But over the years, Netflix has shifted its strategy to focus on original content. For fans of faith-based and family-friendly films, this means many of your favorites have disappeared or will soon vanish from the streaming service.

Netflix originals now make up a huge portion of their catalog. They’re investing billions into producing their own TV shows, movies, documentaries, and other content. While this has led to popular hits like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Bird Box, it means less room for licensed content from traditional studios. And since most faith-based and family films come from these studios, they’re often the first to go.

It’s a numbers game for Netflix. They want content that will attract new subscribers and keep current members paying each month. Original programming, especially their binge-worthy series, seem to drive more buzz and subscriber growth. Family and faith content typically has a more niche audience, so Netflix gives priority to their originals.

The exodus of Christian movies from Netflix will likely continue as they pursue their original content strategy. Some of these films may pop up on other streaming services, like Pure Flix or Up Faith & Family. But for now, keep an eye out for your favorites on Netflix and watch them before they disappear into the streaming abyss. The good news is that as Netflix pivots to focus on their own content, other streaming services have an opportunity to better serve audiences interested in faith and family-friendly entertainment.

Netflix Removes Christian Films: The Recent Changes

Have you noticed some of your favorite faith-based films disappearing from Netflix recently? Unfortunately, over the past couple of years, Netflix has removed many Christian movies from their streaming library.

Netflix is always changing up their content, but lately, they seem to be phasing out faith-based films in particular. Movies like God’s Not Dead, Do You Believe?, and The Case for Christ are no longer available for streaming. Instead, Netflix appears to be focusing more on their own original content and blockbuster films.

• Some speculate Netflix is removing Christian films due to pressure from certain activist groups. However, Netflix claims their goal is simply to provide the content that most interests their viewers.
• The good news is many of these films are still available to rent or purchase on other streaming platforms like Amazon, Vudu or iTunes. Some are also available on free streaming sites like Tubi TV, Crackle and IMDb TV.

Losing access to faith-promoting stories on major streaming services is disappointing for many Christians. However, this may be an opportunity for believers to support Christian filmmakers in new ways, such as:

1. Buying or renting faith-based movies on other streaming platforms or DVD. Every purchase helps fund future Christian films.
2. Donating to ministries that produce Christian media like Pure Flix, Kendrick Brothers, and others. Your gifts make a difference.
3. Continuing to request your favorite faith-based films on Netflix. While they may not bring them back, your feedback is noted.

The entertainment industry is always changing, but by coming together, we can help ensure inspiring Christian stories continue to be told. Our support can make a difference.

Why Did Netflix Remove So Many Christian Movies?

Netflix has removed many Christian films from their streaming library recently. Why did so many faith-based movies disappear from the platform?

Contracts Expired

Netflix licenses movies and TV shows for a fixed time period, often a few years. When the license term ends, Netflix has to renegotiate with the content owner to keep the title. If a new deal can’t be reached, the content is removed. Many Christian films had licenses that expired, and Netflix and the studios couldn’t agree to new terms.

Focusing on Originals

Netflix is investing heavily in original content they produce themselves. They want viewers streaming Netflix originals like Stranger Things and The Crown rather than licensed films from other studios. As Netflix shifts their content budget to focus on originals, they are cutting back on licensing deals with some studios. Unfortunately, this means less variety and fewer Christian movies for viewers.

Algorithm and Demand

Netflix closely monitors what viewers watch to determine what content to keep or cut. If a movie isn’t watched frequently enough, Netflix may decide not to renew its license or bid on a new deal. Christian and faith-based films likely have a more niche audience, so they may not get enough views for Netflix to see them as a priority to keep or bid high to re-license.

•Viewers can request titles they want to see added or brought back to Netflix. Make your voice heard and ask for your favorite Christian films by title.

•Check other streaming services like Pure Flix, Tubi TV or VidAngel which offer faith and family-friendly content.

•Buy or rent Christian movies from services like Amazon, iTunes or Vudu to support the genre.

•Spread the word about great Christian films to help build their popularity and demand.

While losing these movies is disappointing, viewers still have options to find and support faith-based films. And by raising our voices, we can encourage Netflix and other streamers to provide more inspirational content in the future.

How Netflix Chooses What Content to Keep or Remove

Netflix has a lot of factors to consider when determining what content stays or goes from their streaming library. As a viewer, it can be frustrating when a favorite movie or show disappears without warning. But Netflix isn’t removing content to upset you – they have some valid reasons for taking things down.

Licensing Issues

The most common reason Netflix removes content is licensing restrictions. Netflix licenses most of the TV shows and movies in their library for a fixed period of time. Once that time is up, the content owner can choose not to renew the license. This often happens because:

• The owner wants to license the content to another streaming service.
• The owner plans to use the content on their own new streaming platform.
• The owner and Netflix can’t agree on a price for renewal.

Whatever the cause, when a license expires, Netflix legally has to remove that content from their service.

Low Viewership

Netflix is also in the business of providing content that people want to watch. If a movie, show, or other media isn’t generating enough interest from viewers, Netflix may opt not to renew its license or may even remove it before the license term is over. Netflix routinely analyzes data on what’s being watched to determine what’s working and what’s not. Low viewership content gets cut.

Making Room for New Content

Netflix is constantly adding new original shows and movies, as well as licensing other new content. To make room for all this new media, some existing content has to go. Netflix aims for a good balance of content that appeals to all their viewers’ diverse tastes. Removing some older or less popular content helps achieve that balance and provides more resources for creating and acquiring fresh new content.

The bottom line is that Netflix would keep everything on their service forever if they could. But business, legal, and practical issues often mean that some content has to be removed to make way for new. While it can be disappointing, try to remember that more great content is always on the way!

The Impact of Losing Faith-Based Content on Netflix

Less Variety and Choice

With major faith-based content disappearing from Netflix, your options for streaming Christian movies and shows are becoming more limited. Netflix used to be a one-stop shop for all your entertainment needs, including faith and family-friendly content. Now you’ll have to subscribe to niche streaming services like Pure Flix or Up Faith & Family in addition to Netflix to access the same selection. Or you may have to rent or purchase titles individually to watch what you want. Either way, it’s an added cost and inconvenience.

Missing Out on Meaningful Stories

Some of the most inspiring and impactful films are faith-based, telling stories of hope, courage, and redemption. Movies like “War Room,” “I Can Only Imagine,” and “Miracles from Heaven” share messages of faith and the power of prayer that resonate with Christian audiences. If Netflix removes these titles from their library, you lose the opportunity to be moved and motivated by these stories.

Less Representation for Faith-Based Audiences

With a declining selection of Christian content, Netflix risks alienating faith-based subscribers and audiences. Christians make up a sizable portion of Netflix’s U.S. viewers, so removing content that speaks to them can be seen as overlooking this demographic. Some may cancel their subscriptions in favor of other streaming services that better cater to their interests.

What You Can Do

As a consumer, you have the power to influence change. Some actions you can take include:

-Contacting Netflix to express your desire for more faith-based content. Politely explain how this type of programming is meaningful to you and many other subscribers.

-Supporting other streaming services that focus on faith and family-friendly entertainment. Your views and subscriptions help keep them in business.

-Renting or purchasing Christian movies and TV shows to continue watching what inspires you. This also demonstrates demand to studios and distributors.

-Spreading awareness on social media using hashtags like #BringBackChristianContent and #WeWantFaithFilms. Grassroots campaigns can be an effective way to motivate companies into action.

While losing your favorite faith-based movies and shows on Netflix is disappointing, there are still ways to access inspiring Christian content and make your voice heard as an audience member. With enough support from viewers like you, Netflix may decide to bring back or add more of the faith-based programming you love.

Petitioning Netflix to Bring Back Your Favorite Films

Sign the Petition

The most effective way to let Netflix know you want your favorite Christian films back is by signing a petition. There are a few active petitions on Change.org and Petition2Congress requesting Netflix bring back titles like “God’s Not Dead,” “Miracles from Heaven,” and “I Can Only Imagine.” Add your name to all the petitions you support. The more signatures, the louder the message.

Spread the Word

Share the petition links on your social media profiles and with your friends, family, church groups, and anyone else who may be interested. Ask them to also sign and share the petitions to help gain more traction. You can also start your own petition focused on a specific movie title or genre. Launch a hashtag campaign on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram like #BringBackChristianFilms or #NetflixWeWantOptions. The bigger the social buzz, the harder it will be for Netflix to ignore.

Contact Netflix Directly

While petitions and social campaigns are effective, also reaching out to Netflix directly to express your concerns is important. Call their customer service line or chat with a live agent on their website. Politely explain that you’ve noticed several Christian films have disappeared from their streaming service lately, and you would like to request that they bring back those titles and acquire more faith-based options. Be specific about which movies matter most to you. Netflix relies on viewer feedback and interests to make content decisions, so your calls and messages can make a real difference.

Consider Alternatives

If Netflix does not bring back your favorite Christian films, you may need to consider other streaming options to meet your needs. Both Pure Flix and Up Faith & Family specialize in faith-based and family-friendly entertainment. Their libraries include many popular Christian movies and TV shows. You can subscribe to them in addition to or in place of Netflix. You should be able to find most of the titles you’re missing there.

While losing your favorite films from Netflix is disappointing, don’t lose hope. By banding together with other viewers, petitioning, calling on Netflix directly, and exploring alternative services, you have the power to influence change and access the inspirational content you love.

Alternative Streaming Services for Christian Movies

If Netflix is removing some of your favorite faith-based films, don’t worry—there are other streaming services dedicated to Christian and family-friendly content. Check out these alternative options:

Pure Flix

Pure Flix is the largest independent faith and family-friendly streaming service, with thousands of movies, TV shows, and original series. They have a huge catalog of Christian films like God’s Not Dead, I Can Only Imagine, and Unplanned. Subscription plans start at $4.99/month.

Dove Channel

The Dove Channel offers wholesome entertainment for all ages with Christian movies, cartoons, TV series and more. Some of their featured films include Courageous, Facing the Giants, and Fireproof. Plans are very affordable at just $4.99/month.

Christian Cinema

Christian Cinema is dedicated to streaming faith-based and family-friendly films. They have a library of over 1,000 Christian movies including popular titles like Overcomer, Breakthrough, and A Question of Faith. Subscription plans start at $4.99 for the first month and $9.99/month after that.

• VidAngel – VidAngel provides filtered streaming of mainstream movies and TV shows as well as faith-based and family content. Plans start at $9.99/month.

• BYUtv – BYUtv is Brigham Young University’s family-friendly streaming service with original series, documentaries, and Christian films. Subscription is free to access.

• RightNow Media – RightNow Media is a streaming service for Christian churches and ministries. They offer over 20,000 Bible study videos, Christian movies, kids’ shows, and leadership training resources. Pricing varies but starts around $49/month for a small group.

There are quite a few good alternatives for streaming Christian and faith-based films. Check out a few of these services and you’ll have plenty of wholesome entertainment options to choose from. No need to miss out on inspiring and thought-provoking movies just because they’re disappearing from Netflix.

Buying or Renting the Films You Want to Watch

If Netflix removes some of your favorite faith-based films, don’t worry—you have options. You can always purchase or rent the movies you want to watch.

Buy the DVD or Blu-ray

One simple solution is to buy a physical copy of the movie on DVD or Blu-ray disk. Many Christian films are available for purchase on disk, often for a reasonable price. You’ll then have the freedom to watch whenever you want, as many times as you want, without worrying about it disappearing from a streaming service. The downside is that disks take up space and can be more difficult to access.

Rent from Redbox or a Local Store

Renting is a more temporary solution but can still give you access to movies no longer on Netflix. Redbox kiosks frequently stock popular Christian films, as do many local video rental stores (if you still have any in your area). Rentals typically range from $1 to $5 and allow you to watch for 24 to 48 hours. If you just want to watch once, renting can save you money versus buying a disk.

Buy or Rent Digitally

For the ultimate in convenience, you can purchase or rent faith-based films through various digital services like Amazon, iTunes, Vudu or Google Play. Prices are usually comparable to physical disks. Once purchased, you can stream the movie anytime through the service’s app or website. Rentals typically give you 30 days to start watching and 24 to 48 hours to finish once you’ve started. The benefit of digital is you don’t need a disk and can watch on many connected devices.

While the options for buying or renting faith-based films may be more limited than for mainstream blockbusters, with some searching you can likely find what you’re looking for. And when a movie leaves Netflix, at least you have alternatives so you can continue enjoying your favorites.

Will Netflix Add More Christian Movies in the Future? FAQs

Netflix has been removing Christian films from their streaming service recently, leaving many viewers disappointed. Will Netflix start adding more faith-based content again in the future? Here are some frequently asked questions about Netflix and Christian movies:

Why did Netflix remove so many Christian films?

Netflix removes titles from their catalog periodically based on licensing agreements and viewership. Many of the Christian films they previously offered were made by smaller studios, and Netflix likely decided not to renew the licensing deals. Some viewers speculate that Netflix is moving away from faith-based content, but Netflix has denied this claim.

Will Netflix add new Christian movies to replace the ones they removed?

It’s possible. Netflix still offers some Christian films like “The Case for Christ” and the “God’s Not Dead” trilogy. If viewers demonstrate interest in more faith-based content by watching these kinds of movies and shows, Netflix may pursue licensing deals for additional Christian films. Netflix has said they aim for a diverse content catalog that appeals to viewers of all backgrounds.

What can I do to encourage Netflix to add more Christian movies?

• Watch the Christian movies and shows that are currently on Netflix. Viewership drives Netflix’s content decisions.
• Rate and review the Christian films you watch on Netflix. Give them high star ratings and write reviews saying you’d like to see more content like it.
• Contact Netflix customer service and let them know you’re interested in more faith-based entertainment options. Politely ask if they have plans to license additional Christian films.
• Consider other streaming services like Pure Flix, VidAngel or Christian Cinema if Netflix does not improve their faith-based catalog.

While the future of Christian movies on Netflix is unclear, viewers can take action to demonstrate the demand for this kind of content. With time and persistence, Netflix may once again boost their catalog of faith-based films. For now, keep watching and speaking up to support the Christian entertainment you love.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the unfortunate truth behind why your favorite faith-based films are vanishing from Netflix. The streaming giant is under no obligation to cater to specific audiences or genres, they’re in the business of attracting as many subscribers as possible. While it’s easy to point fingers, the reality is that we vote with our views and dollars. If Christian movies received more mainstream attention and success, Netflix would likely work harder to retain them. For now, you’ll have to look elsewhere to find your favorite inspirational stories of faith, hope and overcoming adversity. But don’t lose heart, with a dedicated fan base as passionate as yours, Christian filmmakers will continue creating content that uplifts and inspires. The platforms may change but the message remains the same. Keep watching, keep sharing and keep the faith.