Sign up to BFI Player and stream films for free

20 Apr 2023

Colleagues can now access BFI Player for free

Two characters in a film available on BFI Player stand back to back

BFI Player is an on-demand service from the British Film Institute, streaming acclaimed, landmark and archive films. Their subscription collection incorporates hundreds of films, which are free-to-view after registering through the University of Manchester Library.

Access to this service was previously limited to students and staff involved with modules where film was a foundational resource in teaching. The Library has recently opened up the platform to all University staff and students.

How to register

Follow the ‘New User’ instructions (in the ‘Access Note’ under the link) using your University email address.
Once you’ve registered, go to the BFI Player website and sign in.
Access is limited to the subscription and free collections only.

Films on offer cover over a century of cinema, extending from Nosferatu (1922) to this year’s Oscar nominee, The Quiet Girl. In addition to the contemporary and the classic from across the globe (Seven Samurai, Citizen Kane, L’Atalante), there’s also a host of cult favourites, ranging from The Draughtsman’s Contract and The Harder They Come to La Haine, for you to watch.

In line with most streaming platforms, new titles are added each month and some may drop off – so register and bookmark BFI Player for regular visits and viewings.