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“Joy Ride” is a comedy film released in 2023. The movie follows a group of Asian American friends as they embark on an unexpected cultural adventure around China. “Joy Ride” became an instant hit among moviegoers for its comedic and fresh glimpse into the experiences of Asian American women, its hilariously and self-deprecating humor, and its striking visuals that vibrantly captured the bustling cities and picturesque countrysides of China.
“Joy Ride” can be streamed on subscription-based streaming services in Canada like STARZ and Crave. However, STARZ is only available in the US and Puerto Rico, so users must subscribe to a VPN service to stream “Joy Ride” via STARZ in Canada.
Apart from subscription-based models, you also have the option to buy or rent “Joy Ride” digitally on video-on-demand (VOD) platforms like Apple TV, Microsoft Store, Cineplex Store, YouTube Movies, and Prime Video.
If you’re into traditional home entertainment viewing, “Joy Ride” is also available for you to enjoy on physical formats like DVD and Blu-ray.
Learn more about each streaming option where you can watch “Joy Ride” in Canada, from subscription-based streaming platforms to video-on-demand services.
Table of Contents
1. Crave
“Joy Ride” is available to stream on Crave, the Canadian streaming platform from Bell Media. On Crave, you can stream “Joy Ride” in 4K video resolution. It also comes with inclusive Described Video (D) and Closed Captions (CC) features in English and Canadian French for viewers with hearing and visual disabilities. The film’s audio is available in English and Canadian French.
Crave supports various devices like iOS and Android phones, computers, tablets, laptops, media players like Chromecast and Roku, and game consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. Crave also offers a 7-day free trial to new users.
Subscribing to Crave gives you unlimited access not only to the “Joy Ride” movie but to plenty of other TV shows and movies from studios like HBO and STARZ.
To stream “Joy Ride” on Crave, register for an account and select any of its following annual or monthly membership plans:
| Plan | Monthly | Annual | Video resolution | Simultaneous streams |
| Basic with ads | CAD$9.99 | CAD$99.90 | 720p | 1 device |
| Standard with ads | CAD$14.99 | CAD$149.90 | 4K | 4 devices |
| Premium ad-free | CAD$22.99 | CAD$220.00 | 4K | 4 devices |
2. STARZ
STARZ is another viable option to stream “Joy Ride.” On STARZ, “Joy Ride” is available to stream in HD with English subtitles.
You can stream “Joy Ride” on STARZ through various devices like smartphones, smart TVs, computers, laptops, media players like Roku and Amazon Fire TV, and gaming consoles like the Xbox series. STARZ does not offer any free trials.
But there’s a catch: STARZ is only available in the US and Puerto Rico, so you must subscribe to a VPN if you want to stream “Joy Ride” via STARZ in Canada:
How to Watch “Joy Ride” on STARZ in Canada
If you prefer streaming “Joy Ride” via STARZ in Canada, then follow the steps below:
- Subscribe to a VPN service. (ExpressVPN is our #1 recommendation)
- Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device.
- Connect to a server in the US.
- Open the STARZ website or app, then sign up for an account.
- Prepare a US-issued form of payment. STARZ accepts debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), as well as PayPal.
- Once registered, search for “Joy Ride” in its library, hit play, and start streaming.
Tip: Using a VPN is beneficial not only in bypassing geo-restrictions, but it can also help you mask your IP address, ensure secure browsing on public Wi-Fi connections, and even help you score discounted deals on online purchases.
VPNs are completely legal in Canada and our top VPN recommendation, ExpressVPN, works seamlessly when it comes to streaming in STARZ.
On ExpressVPN, you are eligible to avail of a 30-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee if you click on the link below:
Once you’ve subscribed to a VPN service, you can start streaming “Joy Ride” on STARZ by simply creating an account and availing of its monthly plan:
| Plan | Price | Video resolution | Simultaneous streams | Unlimited downloads |
| Monthly | $9.99 | HD | 4 devices | Yes |
3. Apple TV
You can buy or rent “Joy Ride” digitally on Apple TV. “Joy Ride” costs CAD$19.99 for purchase and CAD$5.99 for rent. The movie streams in 4K with premium Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos features. There are also accessibility features like Closed Captions (CC) and Audio Descriptions (AD), designed for viewers with hearing and visual disabilities. Its audio is also available in English and French.
4. Microsoft Store
“Joy Ride” is also available for purchase and rent at the Microsoft Store. Buying the movie costs CAD$19.99 while rentals costs CAD$6.99. The movie streams in SD, HD, and UHD, all for the same prices. English Closed Captions (CC) are also available for viewers with hearing disabilities. Upon renting, you will have 14 days to start watching the movie and 48 hours to finish it.
5. YouTube Movies
YouTube is another convenient VOD option to rent or buy “Joy Ride” digitally. On YouTube, you can buy the “Joy Ride” movie for CAD$19.99 or rent it for CAD$6.99. The movie streams in 4K with Closed Captions (CC) in English.
6. Cineplex Store
The Cineplex Store also offers “Joy Ride” for rent and purchase. You can buy it for CAD$21.99 or rent it for CAD$6.99 in HD. The film mostly caters to Canada’s French-speaking regions since it only includes French subtitles and Closed Captions (CC). Once you choose to rent, you have 30 days from your date of payment to start watching the film and 4
7. Prime Video
“Joy Ride” is also available for rent and purchase on Prime Video’s video-on-demand platform. On Prime Video, you can buy “Joy Ride” for CAD$19.99 or rent it for CAD$5.99. The movie streams in HD and does not include any subtitles.
What Is the Best Streaming Option to Watch Joy Ride in Canada?
The best streaming option to watch “Joy Ride” in Canada is through Crave. Although Crave is not exactly cheaper than STARZ, it does not require additional workarounds, like using a VPN, to access its platform. Besides, almost every STARZ content can be accessed now through Crave, due to their joint licensing deal. This is perfect for users who value a convenient and uninterrupted viewing experience. STARZ only offers “Joy Ride” in HD quality, while Crave streams the film in 4K. This feature makes up for Crave’s price range, providing viewers with a more immersive and cinematic streaming session. Aside from that, Crave caters to every type of viewer through its inclusive Described Video (D) features, which are not available on STARZ. This feature is beneficial for users with visual and hearing disabilities. Lastly, you have plenty of other content to explore on Crave, as it provides users unlimited access not just to original content but also to programs from HBO, Max, Super Ecran, STARZ, and more. This is ideal for users seeking diverse stories.
When it comes to VOD services, Apple TV is the superior option. Apple TV is best known for its high-quality audio and visual features. Among its competitors, only Apple TV provides Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Since “Joy Ride” is a film that prides itself on its vibrant cinematography and unique visual aesthetics, Apple TV’s Dolby features are a must for viewers seeking a cinematic and enhanced visual and auditory experience.
What Is Joy Ride About?
“Joy Ride” follows four Asian American friends – Audrey, Lolo, Kat, and Deadeye – as they inadvertently embark on a fun-filled and raunchy adventure in China when a business trip goes sideways. Throughout their road trip, they navigate cultural differences, face personal struggles, and ultimately learn what it means to be truly themselves.
Who Directed Joy Ride?
The Malaysian filmmaker Adele Lim, who is also known for writing the “Crazy Rich Asians” film, directed “Joy Ride,” based on a story written by herself alongside Cherry Chevapravatdumrong and Teresa Hsiao. The film is produced under Point Grey Pictures and Red Mysterious, while Lionsgate handles its distribution.
Who Are in the Cast of Joy Ride?
“Joy Ride” boasts a talented and diverse set of Asian cast, including Ashley Park (Emily in Paris,” “Beef”), Stephanie Hsu (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”), Sherry Cola, and Sabrina Wu. The main cast features:
- Ashley Park as Audrey Sullivan
- Sherry Cola as Lolo
- Stephanie Hsu as Kat
- Sabrina Wu as Deadeye
- David Denman as Joe Sullivan
- Annie Mumolo as Mary Sullivan
- Chris Pang as Kenny
- Alexander Hodge as Todd
- Nicholas Carella as Kevin
- Debbie Fan as Jenny Chen
- Meredith Hagner as Jess
- Ronny Chieng as Chao
Who Are the Main Characters of Joy Ride?
The main characters of “Joy Ride” include:
- Audrey Sullivan – An overachieving lawyer adopted by American parents who goes on a business trip to China, unexpectedly reconnecting with her heritage and identity.
- Lolo Chen – Audrey’s childhood best friend. Lolo is known as a free-spirited and straightforward artist struggling with financial independence and self-esteem.
- Kat Huang – Audrey’s college roommate turned famous Chinese opera star.
- Vanessa / Deadeye – Lolo’s eccentric cousin who’s obsessed with K-pop.
Why Is Joy Ride So Popular?
“Joy Ride” gained popularity upon its release for its empowering representation of Asian American women, subversive humor, and vibrant cinematography. The film, fronted by an all-Asian female cast, resonated with viewers of the same demographic who appreciate seeing their often-overlooked community being represented in mainstream media. “Joy Ride” also fearlessly explores sexuality with wit, which brings a sense of empowerment, especially to female viewers. Lastly, “Joy Ride” boasts stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of China’s rural and urban areas, offering viewers a fresh perspective into the diverse and rich culture of the country.
What Do Critics Say About Joy Ride?
“Joy Ride” was positively received by critics and audiences. Reviews praise it for its humorous writing combined with a heart-warming story.
“Joy Ride” holds a Certified Fresh approval rating of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer. See what critics loved about the film:
- “Hsu and Cola balance the mania well against Park’s straight woman sincerity, but it’s Wu, a rising star on the standup scene, who serves as Joy Ride’s surprise MVP.” – Independent (UK)
- “Both hilarious and heartfelt, Joy Ride packs a nuanced exploration of Asian identity into a Trojan Horse comedy, filled with enough narcotics to get the blood pumping.” – Empire Magazine
