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The YouTube Effect

5.420231h 39mMovieDocumentary

YouTube has garnered over 2.3 billion users and is worth up to $300 billion. At its center is its algorithm, something that threatens to destroy not only the platform, but the entire Internet.

DirectorAlex Winter
WriterAlex Winter
ProducersIan Orefice·Michael Cho

Where to watch

HooplaHoopla
Availability shown for Canada · rights vary by country

Cast · Directed by Alex Winter

SC
Steve Chen
Self - YouTube Co-Founder
JY
Jillian C. York
Self - Author, Free Expression Activist
HF
Hany Farid
Self - Professor, UC Berkeley, Computer Science and School of Information (voice)
TL
Talia Lavin
Self - Journalist, Author (voice)
APAnthony Padilla
Anthony Padilla
Self - YouTube Creator, Smosh
IHIan Hecox
Ian Hecox
Self - YouTube Creator, Smosh (voice)
SWSusan Wojcicki
Susan Wojcicki
Self - Former YouTube CEO
NT
Nitasha Tiku
Self -Tech Culture Reporter, The Washington Post (voice)
BL
Becca Lewis
Self - Digital Media Researcher (voice)
NWNatalie Wynn
Natalie Wynn
Self - YouTube Creator, ContraPoints
CC
Caleb Cain
Self - YouTube Creator, Faraday Speaks
BW
Brianna Wu
Self - Software Engineer, Video Game Developer

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The YouTube Effect — streaming FAQ

Which OTT platform streams The YouTube Effect?

The YouTube Effect is streaming on Hoopla in Canada, and available to rent or buy on Apple TV Store and YouTube. It's not currently on Netflix.

Is The YouTube Effect on Netflix?

No, The YouTube Effect is not on Netflix in Canada as of November 2026. It's currently on Hoopla.

Is The YouTube Effect on Amazon Prime Video?

No, The YouTube Effect isn't on Amazon Prime Video in Canada right now. It's on Hoopla instead.

Where can I watch The YouTube Effect for free?

The YouTube Effect is available to stream free (with ads) on Hoopla in Canada.