Why Some Are Movies Locked on Netflix? Explained!

Highlights

1. Ad-supported Netflix users face restrictions on certain titles, including Netflix Originals like House of Cards.
2. Locked content is due to licensing agreements prioritizing higher-tier subscriptions or specific regions.
3. Netflix has significantly reduced locked content, dropping from 5.1% in 2022 to 2% in 2024.
4. Titles unavailable on the ad tier are marked with a lock icon when browsing or searching.
5. The ad-supported plan offers great value, with most of the library available despite ads and some limitations.

Netflix’s ad-supported plan promises “the vast majority” of TV shows and movies on its standard no-ads tiers. Still, some popular titles remain locked for those using the cheaper option. 

For instance, Eli Roth’s horror film Thanksgiving, which recently climbed to No. 3 on Netflix’s top 10 movies in the US, is inaccessible to ad-plan subscribers due to licensing restrictions. 

In this article, we’ll explore why some movies are locked on Netflix and how licensing impacts what you can watch.

What Movies and Shows Are Locked?

If you’re on Netflix’s ad-supported plan, you might have noticed some popular titles are unavailable. This includes big names like:

• House of Cards
• Peaky Blinders
• All the Boss Baby TV shows and specials
• Dinotrux

Even Netflix Originals, typically considered universally available, can be locked due to licensing restrictions.

Some licensed movies and shows are also restricted. Notable examples include:

• Edgar Wright’s Baby Driver
• Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
• Madame Web

These restrictions might be frustrating, especially if you were looking forward to a binge-watch session.

How Does Netflix Handle Licensing Restrictions?

Licensing agreements play a big role in determining what you can watch. These agreements often differ by plan type, location, or the content creator’s requirements. When a title isn’t available on an ad-supported plan, it’s typically due to contractual agreements prioritizing higher-tier subscriptions.

Netflix acknowledges this issue directly:

“While most TV shows and movies are available on an ad-supported plan, a small number are not due to licensing restrictions,” the company states.

Titles locked to ad-supported users are marked with a lock icon when browsing or searching the platform, making it clear what’s off-limits.

How Much Netflix Content is Locked?

When Netflix’s ad-supported tier launched in November 2022, it had some significant drawbacks. Initially, 5.1% of Netflix’s library (326 titles out of 6,324) was locked. By February 2023, that number increased slightly to 5.4% (348 titles out of 6,444).

The good news is that Netflix has steadily reduced these numbers. As of February 2024, only 175 titles were restricted, representing a 50% decrease from the previous year. By December 2024, this figure dropped to 151 titles, making up just 2% of Netflix’s total library of 7,381 titles.

Why Did Locked Content Drop in December 2024?

In December 2024, locked content significantly decreased. The main reason? Netflix removed most of DreamWorks’ interactive specials previously unavailable on the ad tier. By pulling these titles, the locked content percentage decreased from 2.1% in November to 2% in December.

While this change improved overall availability, it highlights how Netflix continually adjusts its library and licensing agreements based on user behavior and content performance.

Is the Ad-Supported Plan Worth It?

The ad-supported plan offers incredible value for its price, with most of Netflix’s library available. However, it’s not without its limitations:

• Locked Content: Some popular movies and shows remain restricted.
• Advertisements: Unlike ad-free plans, you must sit through ads during playback.

How to Check Locked Content?

Curious if your favorite shows or movies are available on your ad-supported plan? Resources like What’s on Netflix provide updated lists of titles unavailable to ad-plan subscribers. You can also identify locked titles directly on Netflix by looking for the lock icon next to unavailable content.

Why Does Netflix Lock Originals?

One surprising aspect of the locked content debate is the inclusion of Netflix Originals. Since Netflix produces these, many assume they’d be available on all plans. However, even Originals can be subject to licensing agreements that limit availability to specific tiers or regions.

For instance, popular Netflix Originals like House of Cards and Peaky Blinders have been locked for ad-plan users. This is likely due to agreements with production companies that co-finance or distribute these shows.

What Can Netflix Ad Plan Users Expect in the Future?

Netflix has made significant progress in reducing the amount of locked content on its ad-supported tier. As licensing agreements evolve and Netflix continues negotiating with content providers, the percentage of restricted titles will likely decrease further.

For now, users on the ad-supported plan can enjoy most of Netflix’s library at a fraction of the cost. And with the platform steadily improving access, it’s an excellent option for budget-conscious streamers.

Final Words

Netflix’s ad-supported plan is an affordable way to enjoy most TV shows and movies, but some content remains locked due to licensing restrictions. While it’s frustrating to see titles like Baby Driver and House of Cards unavailable, Netflix actively works to improve access. With the percentage of locked content dropping to just 2% in December 2024, ad-plan subscribers have more options than ever.

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FAQs

Why Does My Netflix Say Blocked?

This error means something temporarily stops your device or network from connecting to Netflix. To fix it, close all browser tabs or windows with Netflix open and try again. If that doesn’t work, we’re currently unable to connect your account to Netflix.

How Can You Watch Netflix Unblocked?

To watch Netflix unblocked, you can use the Tor Browser. First, visit the Tor Browser website and download the application. Once installed on your device, open the app and connect to the Tor network. After that, you can launch Netflix and stream your favorite content without restrictions. 

Why Does Netflix Restrict Content?

Netflix restricts content based on ratings, which are determined by the frequency of mature elements like violence, sex, adult language, nudity, or substance use. 

Where Can I Watch Netflix Unblocked?

You can watch Netflix unblocked by accessing it directly from a region where it is available or using a VPN that bypasses Netflix’s restrictions. Choose a VPN known for working with Netflix for uninterrupted access.