News Summary:
Mometu, a free ad-supported streaming platform dedicated to independent filmmakers, international cinema, classic films, and underserved voices, faces permanent closure unless it secures sufficient donations to relaunch, a development announced on July 9, 2026, that mirrors the struggles of many ad-supported streaming platforms. This situation follows the launch of a crowdfunding campaign on May 27, 2026, aimed at saving and relaunching the independent streaming service as "Mometu 2.0," with plans to secure its future as a dedicated home for independent film and underrepresented storytelling after the platform's earlier announcement of an impending shutdown. Previously, on March 3, 2026, Mometu launched the Mometu Short Film Showdown, a nine-month genre-based short film competition designed to extend the commercial life of short films and return 100 percent of competition-generated advertising revenue to participating filmmakers. The platform also offered a festive collection of contemporary romcoms and classic holiday films for free streaming on December 16, 2025. Earlier, on November 25, 2025, Mometu expanded its Korean cinema collection with a slate of critically acclaimed titles, responding to increased U.S. demand for K-content.