Cine
A streaming platform for film lovers who want more than just what to watch.
Role: Sole UX/UI Designer & Researcher
The Challenge
Most media apps offer endless content, but for curious movie lovers, quantity doesn’t equal quality.
Cine was designed as a freemium experience: free to explore, premium to master.
Users were saying…
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"I want to learn more about directing, but not through a lecture."
The Film Student
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"I would pay for behind the scenes breakdowns of my favorite films."
The Rewatcher
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"I wish i had an organized way to really study cinema, without going to film school."
The Aspiring Critic
Problem
Streaming platforms prioritize entertainment over enrichment. It’s hard for curious viewers to find and engage with meaningful film education.
Goal
Make film education accessible, stylish, and desirable.
Solution
Blend curated recommendations w/ snackable lessons. Let users upgrade when they’re ready.
Design Principles
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Bite-sized, beautiful, built for scrollability
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Learn about directing, acting and editing from the pros.
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Freemium upsells feel helpful, not pushy.
Wireframing
Sign-up:
surface premium value early
Library:
curated by categories like" “Award Winners”
Upgrade:
Clear, compelling plans- no pressure.
Usability Tests
Click here for the Cine Prototype →
Final Impact
Conclusion
Fixes
Created fictional movie posters using copyright-free images to enhance realism
Refined the premium messaging to clearly communicate the value and benefits of upgrading.
Premium
Curated movie picks
Director’s notes & trivia
Exclusive masterclasses
Storytelling workshops
Scene break downs
Cine turns casual streaming into a film school moment. Free to start. Addictive to grow with.
What I’d Do Next:
With more time, I’d dive deeper into user testing around content pacing and subscription behavior. I’d explore ways to gamify the film education experience, like watchlists that unlock lessons, director deep dives, or a “film school path” users can progress through. I’d also partner with emerging filmmakers or critics to create exclusive commentary drops, blending insider access with education.
Feedback
Loved the cinematic tone
Wanted clearer previews
Found upgrade flow intuitive and similar to apps they currently use
Free
Blend curated recommendations w/ snackable lessons.
Let users upgrade when they’re ready.