123Movies was once one of the most popular free movie sites, but its sudden shutdown in 2018 left many movie lovers searching for alternatives. While there are plenty of free movie sites like 123Movies, many come with security risks or legal concerns.
To save you the hassle of finding safe options, I’ve put together a list of the 5 best free and legal alternatives to 123Movies so you can enjoy high-quality streaming without any worries!
Is 123Movies Gone?
123Movies was originally known as 123Movieshub, a popular online streaming platform that attracted numerous viewers with its vast library of free movies and TV shows. However, the platform operated by providing unauthorized content, making it illegal and one of the pirated movie sites.
Despite the emergence of many mirror and clone sites, users have gradually shifted toward seeking safe sites like 123Movies.
5 Best Free & Legal 123Movies Alternatives in 2025
Here are 5 legal and safe alternatives to 123Movies for your reference.
YouTube
YouTube is one of the largest video-sharing platforms globally, where users can upload, watch, share, and comment on various types of video content. It covers a wide range of topics, from entertainment and education to technology and daily life, thus catering to diverse user interests.
As YouTube is owned by Google, it collects data about your activities, including the videos you watch, to personalize your experience and improve its services.
Pluto TV
Pluto TV is not just a must-have movie and show downloader; it offers free live and on-demand content for U.S. users. The platform features over 200 channels, all for free.
You don’t need to create an account to use Pluto TV, but it does automatically collect some personal information, such as how you use the service, your preferences, how you interact with the content, and your IP address.
Crackle
Crackle is a free, ad-supported streaming service that offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and original content. Users can access it on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
The platform is jointly operated by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment and Sony Pictures Television, ensuring its content is legal. However, Crackle does not support content downloads, so users can only watch via online streaming.
Tubi
Tubi is a legal and free streaming platform available in over 10 countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Mexico. It offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and documentaries without any subscription fees.
Unlike some sites like 123Movies, Tubi provides a safe and legal streaming experience. Users can watch content without registration, but the platform does collect certain personal data, such as browsing activity and IP addresses.
SBS On Demand
Unlike 123Movies, SBS is only available in Australia. It is designed to help Australians easily learn about the cultures and people of other countries through entertainment.
Specifically, the channel buys the rights to movies and TV shows from around the world and then translates them into English using its own skilled subtitle team. After that, the programs are broadcast across Australia.
Conclusion
123Movies was once a popular free streaming platform offering a variety of movies and TV shows. However, due to its illegal nature and potential security risks, many users have now shifted to safer, legal alternatives to 123Movies.
The five safe and legal websites mentioned in this article might be helpful for those looking for reliable streaming options.
FAQs about Movie Sites Like 123Movies
Legal alternatives include platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, Crackle, and Popcornflix. These movie sites like 123Movies offer a wide range of movies and TV shows legally and are supported by ads.
Safety varies. While legal free streaming services offer secure and ad-supported experiences, many 123Movies replacement sites that provide unauthorized content can expose you to malware and intrusive ads. Always choose trusted, verified sites.
When selecting a 123Movies similar site, consider its legal status, security measures, streaming quality, update frequency, and user reviews. Ensure the site uses HTTPS and has minimal intrusive advertising.
Unauthorized streaming sites can bring legal troubles, expose you to malware, and bombard you with unwanted ads. Sticking with legal websites like those mentioned above minimizes these risks.
Yes, several legal streaming platforms offer live TV alongside on-demand movies and shows. For example, Pluto TV provides live channels, making it a solid option if you’re looking for a 123Movies replacement that includes live TV features.