Netflix has enjoyed a long run as both a consumer and investor darling. And those investors may very well cheer Netflix’s exploration of delaying new release movie rentals to cut costs. I understand their desire to maintain good relations with the studios and to avoid costly, time consuming litigation. But us consumers aren’t feeling the love.
While guesting on PCMag Radio earlier this week (pic), my co-hosts suggested that holding back DVD rentals 30 days after DVD sales commence would lead to an increase in content piracy. While not inaccurate, I doubt the number would significantly move the needle. There are those who swipe content, and there are those who don’t. So, ignoring BitTorrent for the moment, how would the rest of us handle a Netflix Hollywood sellout?
Of course, Netflix has been a pioneer in the digital space. But their current streaming catalog is largely the same sort of long-tail, back catalog content not impacted by this 30 day release window. If I can’t get new release movies from Netflix in a timely fashion, I will get them elsewhere… and adjust or cancel my Netflix subscription accordingly. As I rarely to never purchase media these days, I’d go the digital video-on-demand route. And currently Amazon VOD is my provider of choice on the Roko and TiVo platforms. Should Netflix persue this course of action, I also expect those less willing to cave to Hollywood’s demands or cash (like Redbox) would see a surge in business.
It’s not too late to do the right thing, Netflix. Bump my sub a buck or three, if you must, and leave well enough alone.
