Long before what is now referred to as the streaming wars began, Robert L. Johnson, founder of Black Entertainment Television (Bet) and Chairman of Rlj Entertainment, announced Umc — Urban Movie Channel, Rlj’s proprietary streaming network. Officially launched in February 2015 featuring “urban-themed” series and movies, the service, which is now known only as Umc, is part of a suite of channels and streamers owned by AMC Networks, after the media company acquired Rlj in late 2018.

A direct competitor to the more recognized brand in Bet+, which launched just last fall, Umc might be smaller in comparison, but it’s a characteristic that makes them much more flexible and far less averse to taking risks, especially when it comes to programming decisions. Additionally, having a five-year head start has allowed them the time to work through kinks that typically come with being a pioneer, which arguably gives them a leg-up when