With streaming apps and movie discovery platforms on the rise, apps like Flixster have carved a niche by blending movie trailers, reviews, ratings, and cinema schedules into one convenient platform. If you’re considering developing a similar app, one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “How much will it cost to build an app like Flixster?”

The short answer: It depends on several factors — features, design, platform, development model, and more. In this blog, we’ll break down all the variables that go into the cost of creating a movie app like Flixster in 2025.

What is Flixster?

Flixster was originally designed as a social movie discovery platform. It allowed users to browse movies, read reviews, watch trailers, and see local theater showtimes. Its integration with Rotten Tomatoes for trusted ratings gave it a unique edge in the market.

Core Functionalities:

  • Movie listings and descriptions

  • Trailer playback

  • Rotten Tomatoes rating integration

  • User reviews and favorites

  • Showtimes based on location

These features make it more than just a content display app — it’s an engaging platform for film lovers.

Key Features of an App Like Flixster

To estimate the cost accurately, it’s essential to define the features that will be part of your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) or full-featured app. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

User Authentication and Profiles

Secure registration, login, and user profile management via email, phone number, or social media.

Movie Listings and Search

A searchable, filterable database of movies with advanced filtering by genre, rating, release date, etc.

Trailers and Descriptions

High-quality video playback and movie summaries pulled from a trusted database like IMDb or TMDB.

User Reviews and Ratings

Users should be able to rate and review movies, like they do on Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb.

Watchlist and Favorites

Save movies to a personalized list for later viewing or reminders.

Social Sharing

Let users share movies and reviews directly to social platforms.

Push Notifications

Send updates on new releases, upcoming shows, and personal recommendations.

Admin Panel

For managing movies, content, user reports, and analytics.

Cost Breakdown by Development Stage

Here’s how the total cost is spread across the different phases:

1. Planning and Research

  • Cost: $2,000 – $5,000

  • Defining the scope, target audience, user journey, and technology stack.

2. UI/UX Design

  • Cost: $3,000 – $10,000

  • Includes wireframes, mockups, and user interface design for all screens.

3. Frontend and Backend Development

  • Cost: $15,000 – $50,000

  • Coding the app, integrating third-party APIs (TMDB, Rotten Tomatoes), and syncing databases.

4. API Integrations

  • Cost: $2,000 – $8,000

  • For real-time data (movies, ratings, showtimes).

5. Testing and QA

  • Cost: $3,000 – $7,000

  • Ensures the app works smoothly across devices and operating systems.

6. Deployment

  • Cost: $1,000 – $3,000

  • Launching the app on iOS App Store and Google Play Store.

Development Team Composition

Typical Roles Required:

  • Project Manager

  • UI/UX Designer

  • iOS and Android Developers

  • Backend Developer

  • QA Engineer

In-house vs Outsourcing

Outsourcing can save costs significantly, especially if you choose a reliable company like Techmave Software, which offers end-to-end mobile app development with global delivery models.

  • In-house (US/Europe): $80,000 – $150,000+

  • Outsourcing (India/Eastern Europe): $25,000 – $70,000

Factors That Influence the Cost

1. Platform Selection

2. Feature Complexity

The more custom features you want (e.g., location-based recommendations, AI-based suggestions), the higher the cost.

3. Location of Development Team

Rates vary widely based on geography:

  • North America: $100 – $250/hour

  • Europe: $50 – $150/hour

  • Asia: $20 – $60/hour

4. Third-party Services and APIs

Movie databases, cloud storage, payment gateways (if monetized), and analytics tools can increase overall cost.

5. Maintenance and Updates

Post-launch updates, bug fixes, and version upgrades are ongoing costs—typically 15–20% of initial development cost annually.

Estimated Cost Range

1. Basic Version

  • Features: Simple listing, trailers, watchlist

  • Cost: $25,000 – $40,000

  • Time: 3–4 months

2. Medium Complexity

  • Includes login, reviews, push notifications, aand dmin panel

  • Cost: $40,000 – $70,000

  • Time: 5–6 months

3. Full-Featured App Like Flixster

  • Advanced filtering, showtime integrations, and cross-platform support

  • Cost: $70,000 – $120,000+

  • Time: 6–9 months

Timeframe to Build

The timeline will vary depending on team size and scope, but here’s a rough estimate:

App Version Time Estimate
Basic MVP 3–4 months
Medium Complexity 5–6 months
Full-Featured App 6–9 months

Monetization Options for Movie Apps

Even if you’re offering a free app, you can still generate revenue through:

1. In-App Advertising

Partner with ad networks like Google AdMob or Facebook Audience Network.

2. Subscription Models

Offer premium features like ad-free experience or early access to reviews.

3. Affiliate Links

Promote movie ticket sales through affiliates or partnerships.

Why Choose Techmave Software for Your Movie App?

At Techmave Software, we understand the intricacies of building media and entertainment apps. Our mobile app development services are designed to help you:

  • Launch scalable and robust apps

  • Optimize performance and user engagement

  • Stay within your budget and timelines

  • Offer post-launch support and upgrades

With experience in developing both Android and iOS applications, Techmave delivers high-performance apps tailored to your unique vision.

Conclusion

Creating an app like Flixster in 2025 is a strategic investment, not just a technical project. Depending on the scope, platform, and development model, the cost could range anywhere from $25,000 to over $120,000.

To make the most of your budget and ensure long-term success, it’s crucial to choose an experienced development partner. Techmave Software can help you turn your movie app idea into a reality with a customized, scalable, and budget-friendly solution.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to build an app like Flixster?

Typically, it takes between 3 to 9 months, depending on the app’s features and complexity.

2. Can I monetize a movie app?

Yes. You can generate revenue through ads, subscriptions, affiliate partnerships, or paid premium features.

3. What tech stack is used for apps like Flixster?

Common technologies include React Native or Flutter for cross-platform apps, Node.js or Django for backend, and TMDB or IMDb APIs for movie data.

4. Is it expensive to maintain a movie app?

Maintenance usually costs 15–20% of the initial development budget annually, covering bug fixes, updates, and new features.

5. Does Techmave provide post-launch support?

Yes, Techmave offers full post-launch support, including maintenance, updates, feature additions, and performance monitoring.