Apps To Watch Movies With Friends On Facetime

Movie Night...But Make It Digital

Okay, let's be honest. Remember when "Netflix and chill" actually meant...watching a movie? Those were the days.

Now, it's more like "trying to coordinate a watch party with friends." And that, my friends, can be a challenge.

The Facetime Dream (and Nightmare)

FaceTime seems like the perfect solution, right? Everyone on the same call, commenting on the terrible acting in that rom-com.

Except... the sound quality. And the lag. Oh, the dreaded LAG! Plus, someone always forgets to mute their mic when they chew.

Is it just me, or is that sound extra loud on FaceTime? I swear I can hear Brenda breathing.

The App-tastic Alternatives

Thankfully, the tech gods have blessed us with apps. Apps designed to make virtual movie nights less of a headache.

Let's dive in, shall we?

Netflix Party (aka Teleparty)

This is the OG of synchronized streaming. A simple Chrome extension that syncs playback on Netflix. Genius!

It adds a chat window so you can all make witty remarks. Or, you know, complain about Brenda's chewing from afar.

My unpopular opinion: the chat is sometimes more entertaining than the movie itself.

Disney+ GroupWatch

Calling all Disney adults! (Don't worry, I'm one too.)

Disney+ has its own built-in group watching feature. Perfect for reliving your childhood or subjecting your friends to your favorite Pixar tearjerker.

Prepare for emotional support after watching Up.

Hulu Watch Party

Hulu gets in on the action with their Watch Party feature! The same basic premise: synchronized playback and chat.

Great for catching up on the latest buzzy TV shows. Or re-watching classic episodes of Seinfeld. Kramer's entrances never get old!

My unpopular opinion: Hulu has the best variety of random, guilty-pleasure movies.

Amazon Prime Video Watch Party

Amazon throws its hat into the ring! Their Watch Party works pretty much the same way as the others.

A great option if you're already Prime members. Plus, free shipping on popcorn! (Okay, maybe not specifically for the Watch Party.)

Pro-tip: use Alexa to control the movie. "Alexa, pause!" Now you're living in the future.

The Unpopular Truth: It's Still Not the Same

Look, these apps are great. They really are. But...

There's something about being in the same room, sharing a giant bowl of popcorn. Feeling the collective gasp at a plot twist.

Virtual movie nights are convenient, sure. But they'll never truly replace the real thing.

So, maybe...just maybe... let's try to actually get together sometime soon? I promise I won't breathe too loud.

Let's just all agree to keep Brenda home.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best app is the one that works best for you and your friends. Experiment and find your groove.

And remember, it's not just about the movie. It's about connecting with the people you care about. Even if it's over the internet, through lag and questionable audio.

Happy watching! And try not to rewind that awkward scene from that one rom-com. We've all been there, right?