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Blockbuster service really giving Netflix a run for its money

techcrunch.com — Yesterday they announced that the monthly coupon for a free rental can be used for movies OR video games. Also, Blockbuster Movies received by mail can be returned directly at any Blockbuster store, you get a free rental on the spot, and Blockbuster still sends out the next movie in your queue.

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  • silver31u, on 10/12/2007, -10/+32The article pretty well sums up why I'm a Blockbuster Online customer. Can Netflix's compete with thousands of local brick and mortar Blockbusters? I don't think so. I would consider myself a "power user" returning most movies quickly, add in free in store rentals and I don't see how Blockbuster is making any money on my membership.
    • sabster, on 10/12/2007, -2/+19Yeah I dont think they are making any money right now. Their main concern right now is to just get the customers back..
    • codyman, on 10/12/2007, -4/+13Yep this is why I switch to Blockbuster from Netflix... I pay 10 bucks a month and I basically always have a movie to watch and now I get a free game rental... all for ten bucks... I mean, a single rental costs like 4 bucks so...
    • hansamurai, on 10/12/2007, -2/+7My wife and I have been using the Blockbuster service for about 6 months now and we really like it. We have the two DVD plan so for 15 bucks a month we get two DVDs at a time. This USED to yield about 8-12 movies a month which is pretty good compared to Blockbuster prices. But about a month ago, they added the service where if you return your movie to the store, you get a free movie right then and there. So now we get about 20 movies a month for $15. Of course, we have to go to the store to return the videos, which defeats part of the purpose of having them mail them in the first place, but it's a great deal and totally optional. Before the return it to the store option was available, we got two free rentals a month from the store, and that's how we decided to go with Blockbuster over Netflix.

      My only complaint about the latest game promotion is that it only works on the monthly coupon, not every movie return. So you only get one game a month which isn't that much in my opinion.
    • synystar, on 10/12/2007, -5/+20Dugg for the reminder: take back the damned DVD in my truck... girl is gonna flip out when she sees the late fee. Stupid brick and mortar Blockbusters.
    • fanzhango, on 10/12/2007, -2/+3This definitely perk my interest. I canceled blockbuster for the same reason as the author, I found their turn around time to be a bit slower compare to netflix, also they tend to jump alot quit a bit in my queu so I can never tell which movie I'm getting next.
    • provost, on 10/12/2007, -5/+25I know this is could be a stupid move, but I just do NOT trust blockbuster after their last stunt they pulled with the 'no late fees' fiasco and I won't use them again.

      Like I said, it could be dumb of me to do, but when you lose my trust, you lose my money

      I do honestly hope it works out for everyone that does have blockbuster though
    • wild, on 10/12/2007, -4/+7This tactic will be the end of them. They can't possibly make enough money on this to cover the manual labor involved having stores. Not by doing that and keeping up with Netflix prices. Netflix will be our only option in a couple years since they have so little overhead in comparison.
    • KameleonZero, on 10/12/2007, -1/+22Returning to the store is fine, if the store actually has the movies you want to see. The selection at a Blockbuster store is too limited. I use Netflix simply because I can get movies from them I can't get at a store--things like anime or TV shows.

      If you can find the movies you want in a Blockbuster store, though, it's a good deal.
    • FearlessFreep, on 10/12/2007, -1/+26I gave up on Blockbuster and went with NetFlix because NetFlix had a much better selection in the type of B-Movie sci-fi,fantasy, martial arts, horror, crap I like.
    • kLacK, on 10/12/2007, -1/+4"They can't possibly make enough money on this to cover the manual labor involved having stores."

      Not really, as it is probably cheaper for them to ship movies in bulk from the store. Its got to be an inventory and logistics nightmare though.
    • adml_shake, on 10/12/2007, -1/+3I wonder how many of the customers Blockbuster will keeping after they end these promos.
    • Halodude1489, on 10/12/2007, -1/+10Oh the wonderful miracle called competition.
    • surfing, on 10/12/2007, -5/+5Sounds almost like dumping to me. It's like they are trying to force NetFlix out of business.

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dumping_%28pricing_policy%29

    • humperdeath, on 10/12/2007, -2/+1I just started this Blockbuster Total access myself. Got the 1st 3 movies the next day, then sent one back a day for the next 3 days. Email notification tells me what is on the way and when. So far it is great! Laike it's been said, you can get the current releases in store very easily, so it is quite possible to have 4 or 5 movies at home at once even though your supposed to only have 3.
    • joel8x, on 10/12/2007, -1/+2I think the idea is to also draw foot traffic into stores so that you buy candy, soda, or possibly a used flick while you're in there. They also probably deal with a lot less loss of DVD's in the mail due to theft of damage.
    • BigPapi, on 10/12/2007, -0/+4I'm thinking of quitting Blockbuster. The new website they built is so awful and slow that I get pissed everytime I try to use it. The developers at blockbuster.com went crazy with ajax. They put it EVERYWHERE throughout the site and using the queue is just a major pain in the ass now. I have to wait at least 10 seconds for every action, like removing/adding a movie. They obviously didn't take hardware into account when testing the new site.
    • LetsGoHawks, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1The new website does suck. It's ugly and slower than the old one. Also not as intuitive.

      Other than that, BB has been great. I have one about a mile from my house so returning the movies for the freebies is a piece of cake.

      They _want_ people in their stores where they can rent them additional movies, sell them used movies or soda... it makes them money.

      Also, Netflix is owned by Wal-Mart. I don't do Wal-Mart.
    • choice, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1@LetsGoHawks

      WalMart does not own Netflix. WalMart sold their DVD rental service to Netflix last year. Not the other way around.
      http://www.siliconbeat.com/entries/2005/05/19/netflix_makes_walmart_say_uncle.html
    • choice, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1@LetsGoHawks

      WalMart does not own Netflix. WalMart sold their DVD rental service to Netflix last year. Not the other way around.
      http://www.siliconbeat.com/entries/2005/05/19/netflix_makes_walmart_say_uncle.html
    • plonk420, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0they make money on the store rentals people don't return in a timely manner (2 or so weeks past it's due date), like i did for Wallace and Grommit... (paying $10-12, about twice what i'd prefer to spend on an SDTV movie) ;-p

      but yeah, i like BB over Netflix (even tho i hear they're a day or two slower in mailing *****) .. i'm an hour south of the in/outbound mailing center for the state so i guess their system isn't as efficient as NF.

      i got started using one of those INSERT FREE GIFT (if you sign up for X of the following listed deals) .. being too lazy to pursue an iPod, i went for a one-up like blockbuster online for a sizable gift cert @ kmart...
  • hanapbuhay, on 10/12/2007, -5/+19Netflix, add video games to my queue or I'm going to Blockbuster.
    • xelloss, on 10/12/2007, -1/+6I wish they would, that way I don't have to pay for both netflix and gamefly. Yes I know about gameznflix but they don't have the anime selection or Seasoned box set selection like they do with netflix, and all the weird movies that no one hears of.
    • FierceDeityLink, on 10/12/2007, -0/+5I wish either would finally add video games for rental. Gamefly is too damn slow shipping from California.

      Remember, this is only talking about the monthly coupon you get for in-store rentals. If you were grandfathered in from an earlier subscription, you should still get 2 coupons per month that work on all games/movies in-store.
    • ingoldsby, on 10/12/2007, -3/+2Blockbuster doesn't' do video game rentals either - at least online. They just give you coupons to go get video games every month from their brick and mortar stores - at least that's my understanding of it. I originally switched to blockbuster because I thought they did video game rentals online - but they didn't. I ended up switching back after exceedingly slow delivery times and their shipping movies from random positions in my queue.
    • modifiedbears, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3Now that everyone has game coupons it just means that you'll be less likely to find that game you want. There selection is really limited as is and whoever decides the amount of copies to carry per title is an idiot. You'll often see 6 copies of a bad game, usually a bad game that has lots of marketing behind it *cough*die and burn in hell EA*cough*, and 1 copy of a really good game.
  • billygreen23, on 10/12/2007, -0/+7I've been using Blockbuster Online for a few months now and absolutely love it. silver31u, I agree; how are they making any money off of me? For only $5.99 I get five movies a month. Best deal ever.
  • m3mn0n, on 10/12/2007, -2/+2Good article. Too bad I doubt any of this applies to me since I'm in Canada.

    But it's interesting to discover he was the guy who co-founded Zip.ca. That's cool.
  • jasnmb, on 10/12/2007, -5/+4I prefer to just rent from those DVD kiosks found in some grocery stores and fast food places. It's hard to beat $.99 and $.50 a day rentals. I just watch them that night and take back the next day.
    • monosyth, on 10/12/2007, -1/+4huh. i just sit on my lazy butt and wait for the movies i select to drop into my mailbox. i've easily watched 20 movies this month with the blockbuster deal.

      can't wait to try my game coupon...
    • neuropsychguy, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3And if they are Redbox kiosks you could be getting those movies for free with rental codes. A simple google search will provide you with the codes.
  • yer0c, on 10/12/2007, -4/+5For me, Blockbuster still comes out on top because they accommodate my primary feature need: spontaneity. Most of the time, when i decide to rent a movie it's spur-of-the-moment, and with people I didn't exactly plan a week ahead of time to be with. With Blockbuster, I just take the DVD that I had rented to the store with my friends, and we find a movie we want to watch together, and watch it immediately afterwards. Netflix's business model just can't provide for that (until they start doing movie downloads).
    • Nerfdude, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1see, i still maintain spontaneity and don't subscribe to any service. i just download every movie in sight, and then when somebody wants to watch something, i hand them a 50 page txt printout to mill through.
  • theantidote, on 10/12/2007, -1/+3Too bad Blockbuster barely has any video games in stock so that coupon is useless, or at least for me. Other than that though it sounds cool. If only there were a service that combines games and movies and doesn't suck as much as Gameznflix.
  • mitrebox, on 10/12/2007, -3/+3After 4 years of playing catchup...

    It would have been so much easier for Blockbuster to just buy Netfilx and rebrand it.

    They had the money, Netfilx always had the notion to sell, just a lack of vision on the part of Blockbuster leadership.
    • Jrehpo, on 10/12/2007, -1/+9A little market competition is a good for all of us consumerist sheep.
  • leilarichards7, on 10/12/2007, -3/+6If you want to try it our for 1 Free Month, use promo code 1944TA and you will get 1 free month of movies PLUS the free video game rentals.
  • Namco, on 10/12/2007, -7/+2I've been thinking of making the switch to Moviepass from Netflix. I can walk over to the corner Blockhead, get a movie, rip it in 18 minutes, and return it lickety-split. No waiting for Mr. Postman for 5 days.
  • Psylentl3lue, on 10/12/2007, -4/+3I switched to blockbuster from netflix....

    Blockbuster is way better... I figure I can get $80 worth of rentals for $20 a month, with netflix I might have got $40 worth. In my area the blockbuster mails so much faster!
  • Lumiras, on 10/12/2007, -2/+3It's good that after 2 years, Blockbuster has finally gotten their act together with this.

    When they started the service, it was completely seperate from the brick-and-mortar stores. The thing is, the only advantage Blockbuster has over Netflix are the brick-and-mortars. For a long time, Blockbuster completely ignored it and wondered why they were not putting a single dent into Netflix's market. With this new system, Blockbuster probably has a good chance of taking away some of Netflix's audience

    Now if they would only include games in their "total access" package...they would be able to really chip away at Netflix
  • Stiffler, on 10/12/2007, -2/+1I think I'll give Blockbuster a one month trial and see how it compares to my Netflix. I've been a Netflix customer for almost 2 years now and love it. But I've recently added GameznFlix to my monthly services. Would be nice to just have Blockbuster.
  • jashspi, on 10/12/2007, -6/+3what's the strategy on hd dvd or blue ray? whomever plans to rent those first will get my business.
    • wild, on 10/12/2007, -6/+4...digg down
    • foolfromhell, on 10/12/2007, -2/+11Ummm... Netflix has been renting hd-dvd and blu-ray since they came out.
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -1/+3Blockbuster already does. Has for quite some time.
    • hansamurai, on 10/12/2007, -0/+5Yeah, I've seen Blu-ray and HD-DVD movies on Blockbuster for months now. My wife keeps adding them to the queue and I have to take them off.

      No, I do now want to see RV, especially the Blu-ray version with our non-existent Blu-ray player.
  • tdogg241, on 10/12/2007, -3/+18Blockbuster will never get another dime from me as long as I live. Why? I used to work there. And yes, it really was THAT bad.
    • CindyBurger, on 10/12/2007, -0/+5Haha Yeah I use to work at blockbuster.. I was a manager...yeah you get paid sqwat!
  • spiff21, on 10/12/2007, -1/+9I've been a Netflix customer for nearly three years now. I tried Blockbuster a few years ago and wasn't impressed. Notably, I found that Blockbuster had a much smaller catalog of movies, and that they didn't seem to have many copies of those movies that they did have listed in the catalog. I'm guessing that the latter has been fixed by now. Can anyone comment on the relative size of Blockbuster's catalog compared to Netflix's?
    • a7bat, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3I'm debating about going to Netflix or Blockbuster. I don't really want to get mainstream movies, but prefer rare films. I've searched netflix's catalog and so far they've got almost every rare film I want to see. I'm not sure if Blockbuster has more rare titles than netflix....
    • Gryffydd, on 10/12/2007, -0/+6I can say this about Blockbuster: They ignore your queue order. They just randomly send you movies from it. You might get number 23 and number 75 at the same time. They even seem to avoid sending you your first picks if they can. At least that's how it feels. Netflix on the other hand always (or close enough) sends me my top choices.

      Whether that's because they have a larger quantity of the movies and are able to send my top picks because they're available, or if it's just some procedural difference between the two companies I don't know.

      GreenCine is also good, lots of stuff Netflix and Blockbuster don't have (especially porn, if you're into that). The only problem there is they only have one distribution center (in CA) so it took me 3-4 days each way until I got another movie.
  • PabloMac, on 10/12/2007, -2/+2At some point a lot of people hit the wall when they realize quality content has to win out over quantity. I hit that wall a couple of years ago, and now rent maybe one or two movies a month.

    So many hyped movies deliver disappointment nowadays.
  • ingoldsby, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3I tried Blockbuster online, granted it was a year ago - but the movies took forever to arrive. Their online store was not quite up to par with Netflix but semi decent - maybe I will try them again in the future - but as of last attempt Netflix was still significantly faster with better customer service and a much better selection of movies.
  • glucoseboy, on 10/12/2007, -1/+7I've been using the blockbuster service now for a couple months and find it fine. This idea of using return envelopes as coupons for free in-store rentals is brilliant.

    However....

    I still can't stand going to blockbuster, walking up and down the aisles trying to find something to watch. And, once I find it, waiting in a queue that is always 8 deep just to get my free rental. It is so unpleasant for me, I'm foregoing my "free rentals" and just sticking with mail delivery.

    This is the central problem with video store rental in general, the experience is bad. Until they fix that, Blockbuster is still in trouble.
    • Raz75, on 10/12/2007, -6/+3Uh. You're gonna find lines everywhere...they aren't that unpleasant, especially if you're getting something for *free*
    • drlha, on 10/12/2007, -1/+14Exactly. One of the reasons I joined Netflix in the first place is that I can't stand going to Blockbuster, you always spend hours in there, because they don't have what you want and you have to figure out what else you want to watch. I'm never in the mood to watch a movie when I come back.

      Video stores used to be cool, but Blockbusters made them all the equivalent of McDonalds. Rest in peace.
    • dpmorri, on 10/12/2007, -1/+1exactly...even with the free in-store rental option - there is a value to my time and sanity that gets to disrupted by just going into a Blockbuster store now
  • abohling, on 10/12/2007, -0/+4Last time I had Blockbuster online they were doing 2 free movie or game rentals a month - standard. I used it a lot for games but I would get so many unplayable DVDs that I canceled my service. I have Netflix now and I doubt I'll switch back - the whole reason I'm doing online is that I don't want to go to a Blockbuster/Hollywood Video/etc.
  • dognose, on 10/12/2007, -2/+6I've been a member of Netflix for many years (off and on).. Their big problem is that they do NOT offer "unlimited" movies. They start to slow down your shipments if you start getting too many movies. For me, I'd usually return them the day they came, but would only get a movie like once or twice a week.

    I think I tried blockbuster, but just couldn't find the movies I wanted. Maybe they have improved since they first opened it!
    • Raz75, on 10/12/2007, -1/+5You know what, I noticed that's happening to me too. I started watching a lot of movies just last month, and now it's taking longer to receive shipments. At first it took a day longer than usual; these days, it takes 2-3 days longer than when I signed up in the summer.
    • Chaseb, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3Well I have been with Netflix for the past three years and probably rent 10 to 12 DVD's a month and the turnaround time has been like clockwork from day one. Three days total turnaround at most. Also, I live out in the country and the nearest Blockbuster is about 35 minutes away, so I sticking with Netfilx.
  • buzzedlightyear, on 10/12/2007, -2/+1i just got the email explaining the new deals, nice.
  • synt4x, on 10/12/2007, -1/+5Not having to waste half an hour going to a brick and mortar store is most of the reason I use Netflix. It's a nice perk, but I don't foresee myself ever being desperate enough to waste gas and time driving to a store, finding something actually in stock, and then driving back just to see a movie. I'll wait the extra day and just read a book that night instead.
  • picklepants, on 10/12/2007, -2/+8Plus you get really cool "family-ready" edited versions of your favorite films. I say leave the thinking to Blockbuster.
  • juliocgrajales, on 10/12/2007, -4/+1I don't if I am the average renter but I switched back and forth from Cable, Satellite, Netflix, Blockbuster Online and Store and Local Video Store so many times its not even funny. Nonetheless, what I can say is that I changed from Netflix to Blockbuster and I love the service Blockbuster just keeps getting better and better... and for those of you who wondering if Blockbuster censors their movies or whatever the rumors out there are here's a link to Blockbuster explanation:

    http://www.blockbuster.com/online/help/displayFaqDetails

    and for those of you who do not want to click on the link here is the full question answer:

    Does BLOCKBUSTER® edit or censor its movies?

    We do not edit or otherwise alter movies ourselves; we offer all movies for rent or sale exactly as we receive them from the studios, so we leave the methodology as to how ratings are applied specifically and completely to the studios involved. We are retailers and not members of the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America), so we take no position on individual scenes or the overall artistic merits of a film. We are not in the content business. We are in the business of exceeding the expectations of our members and customers, and thus our goal is to offer the widest possible selection within our broad parameters of our "no NC-17 or X" standards. BLOCKBUSTER® has always tried to provide our customers with a variety of choices while maintaining our family orientation. As you know, we will not carry "X" rated or "NC-17" rated films. However, there are unrated film titles we feel may contain content unsuitable for children, and we designate these titles with a "YRV" designation, for "Youth Restricted Viewing". Although not pornographic, only members older than 17 are allowed to select these films.

    I was paying a little over $25 a month for Netflix 4 movie at time plan now with Blockbuster I have first one free month of movies with PROMO Code "bbstore" at 3 month at time and I gave one movie so my son can watch when he is with his mom and she will mail, I kept 2 saw them and walked to my local blockbuster and got 2 new movies and with my ecoupon got another movie which coincidentally the next day they changed the policy for the ecoupon to rent a game which I would have done because I have a Wii. This is great, so now when my blockbuster one month free trial ends I will change my plan to the 2 movies out at a time for $15 and still get all the benefits, isn't inexpensive the way to go.

    I hope this helps people and let me know if you have any tips for me.

    Update I got my 2 movies that I submitted on Monday Night today...
  • SOAB, on 10/12/2007, -1/+4"If customers return movies too quickly, your only real choice is to slow down their shipments. Netflix and all of the competing services have complicated algorithms that add a day or two here and there to the “received date” when customers return DVDs. One way or another, high velocity customers are slowed down. And if they leave, that’s fine. They weren’t profitable anyway."

    I return movies to quickly and I'm proud of it ! :-) BB slowed my mailings to a crawl at best. The coupons were nice, but back to Netflix I went. The local BB franchise is run by children running amuck. RUDE Sales people, TVs & Stereos BLARING and NO selection. Thanks but, no thanks to my local BB franchise. Have to admit, Netflix is slipping in a day or two on returns since their algorithms are starting to kick in. Guess I'll cancel for a month or two and they will love me again. ;-) Bottom line the local franchise BB, NEVER AGAIN !!!!
  • ingoldsby, on 10/12/2007, -3/+4I just wanted to add, this entire digg article sounds like a Blockbuster campaign. Viral advertising at its best.
    • juliocgrajales, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1interesting how ppl are labeled advertisers when they praise good service, so if I said I enjoyed my service at netflix but blockbuster is just coming out with more innovative ways of doing business then I am an advertiser, I just want to say I do not work for blockbuster and don't wish to work at blockbuster, anyway back to life back to reality, remember that song
    • livejamie, on 10/12/2007, -1/+1techcrunch is a legit blog that's been around for a while
      :)
  • vanscott, on 10/12/2007, -0/+10Stupid answer in an interview that ensured I didn't get a job at Blockbuster when I was a student.

    Lady Interviewer, "what do you think the biggest customer complaint here is at Blockbuster"
    Me, "the selection?"
    Lady Interviewer, "um.... no, its the late charges"
    Me, "how would I know, I've never rented from here"
    Lady Interviewer, "thanks for stopping by"
  • rjcarr, on 10/12/2007, -1/+3I just signed up for a free trial of blockbuster too ... the "features" seem really nice, however, their availability REALLY sucks (compared to netflix). I think they shipped about my 15th movie in the queue on the FIRST shipping. Also, their website is really bad too ... I watch a lot of television on DVD and it is hard to tell which season is which and many other annoyances.

    Not dropping my netflix account just yet ...
  • dognose, on 10/12/2007, -1/+1Wait, I'm completely confused the BB's rental policy.

    "* Separate in-store membership required for in-store rentals. In-store movie rentals are subject to store rental terms and conditions, including due dates and charges which may apply to rentals not returned by the due date. See store for complete in-store rental terms and conditions. Free in-store rentals must be returned to the store where they were originally rented. See your receipt for store location and due dates."

    They need to offer either no due date, or mail in returns for ALL their rentals.
    • juliocgrajales, on 10/12/2007, -1/+2Okay why are you confused it's right there in plain english... omg ppl Blockbuster could be giving money away and you people will still be suckered punched by Netflix, why not give a shot and judge for yourself and guess what if you don't like it there is a couple of options:

      Cancel, Don't sign up to begin with, keep your netflix active (if you care to), submit your complaints or suggestions online, etc... This goes with any company that you get any type of service from...
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0I don’t see what is so confusing. In-store rental policies apply to in-store rentals.
  • jonathan95060, on 10/12/2007, -6/+2Blockbuster are a bunch of christian nut jobs. I hope this ploy of theirs drives them out of business before it drives Netflix out of business. I'll take Netflix being busted for throttling over Blockbuster censoring movies and not carrying titles like 'The Last Temptation of Christ' any day.

    While many people have no qualms giving a slimy company their business to save a little money, I am not one of these people. Also, if Blockbuster does kill Netflix, do you really think they will keep their prices low?
    • Fett101, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3You're very confused. I watched The Last Temptation of Christ just last month from Blockbuster.
  • blindcamel, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3The writer is a tool. I've used Netflix for years in Seattle. Delivery time is consistent every time. Returned day one...received and shipped day two...in my box on day three. No preference for 'classics' over new releases. They have never, in five years not sent a new release to me. No 'Algorithm kicking in'. Maybe this guy should renew his membership with zip.ca.
    • Tourney3p0, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0I'm pretty sure you're either stretching the truth, or you're an anomaly. Netflix even admits they start throttling your movies if you rent too much.
  • aforonda, on 10/12/2007, -1/+1whatever, its all about http://www.greencine.com/ anyhow.
  • evildorko, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1Blockbuster online has had in store coupons for the last year or two...and those coupons have worked on video games for just as long. This new service is actually a downgrade of the existing service since there is only 1 coupon issued now. They figured the in store trade of an envelope for a rental overrides the need for a coupon, but they only trade you a movie rental for an envelope- not video games.

    If you used to rent 2 video games per month via the coupons, you're now missing out....but its still a much better deal than netflix. Blockbuster has pretty much the same selection and same delivery times. If netflix ever delivered on their promise to provide rentals over the net via Tivo straight to my TV I'd go back to netflix....
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0They did away with game rentals for new accounts about a year or so ago. Only old accounts still have game rentals. If you currently have two in-store retals you will continue to recive two in-store rentals. That was the first thing I asked Blockbuster when the made this change.
  • urbandistrict, on 10/12/2007, -2/+1I use Blockbuster's online package and it works perfect for me.

    I am a fan of movies and rent on a weekly basis. With Blockbuster online you have the ability to return the movies in the mail, in a particular store for them to ship, or exchange for an other movie within the store. IMO it's the best of both worlds.
  • vanscott, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0Investors seem to like it, up almost 40% since they made the announcement to go to online retailing. I'd hate myself if I listened to Jim Cramer
  • s000, on 10/12/2007, -2/+0One of my business strategy case studies was on Netflix and the number one biggest threat we determined earlier this year for them is if Blockbuster could figure out how to do this logistically. Looks like they have. I actually had Netflix for a few months and never even really use it, lost a DVD(which they credited me the cash 3 months later when I returned it thankfully)

    So yeah, it's blockbuster from now on for me. The movie pass was good, but this is even better
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0And the interesting thing from a business standpoint is they did this with almost no increase in labor. You return the move to the store sealed in the envelope, they just scan it and drop it in their outgoing mail, adds 5 seconds to the rental process.
    • MindTrigger, on 10/12/2007, -0/+2That's weird, I've had several movies come up lost in the mail over the years using Netflix, and they have never once charged me for a single one of them. You didnt' happen to "lose" movies frequently, did you?
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0I'm guessing they lost either an in-store rental or crazy enough to use the option of reporting that you lost your online rental. Before I moved my DVD's were missing all the time and they never charged me anything or said anything.
  • JAKEJAX, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1This is why competition is good. Consumer will win in the long run.
  • tippern, on 10/12/2007, -0/+2" Also, Blockbuster Movies received by mail can be returned directly at any Blockbuster store "

    This is NOT for every store. The individual franchises do not have to honor this. Only one store in my metropolitan area (Memphis) will honor this.

    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0It just depends on where your at. In the Chicago suburbs I've yet to see one that does not take them. I must have driven past 30 Blockbusters in the last month and they all have big ad banners up.
    • Fett101, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1Seriously? There's one store! I thought they were all under the same franchisee. Which store! I must know!
  • mrmagoo, on 10/12/2007, -1/+2I think they will both be crushed by a download service in a few years. Its the best of both worlds.
  • logicalnoise, on 10/12/2007, -0/+4eh, Blockbuster can't match Netflix's selection. I watch most of my tv on dvd because if I get hooked on a show I only have to waita couple days to get another 3 HOURS of it. Sure I COULD DRIVE to the blockbuster but why waste the gas when blockbuster will screw you first chance they get. Netflix may not be different but they've treated me well.
    Hell I just went to blockbuster last week. It was the first time in 6 monthes and the only reason was to use my netflix sisposible cover to get a free rental. Now I'm loathing the special trip I need ot make to the store to return my movie.
  • MindTrigger, on 10/12/2007, -0/+2Blockbuster is a ***** company, and I have boycotted them for life. I've been using Netflix since they first got rolling thanks to Blockbuster sending me to collections for a $2.99 movie late fee I didn't know I had. No mail, no call.. just credit damaging collections.

    Oh, and consider what it cost them in various ways to send my $2.99 to collections. Moronic business practices, retarded employees and a ***** selection to boot. No thanks, Blockbuster.
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1It did not cost them a penny. They sell their old collections at an auction. Some company probably bought yours for 10 - 15 cents on the dollar. Those types of collection companies are ruthless and pride them selves on their credit trashing reputations.

      As for Blockbuster not telling you, from my past experience I doubt it but I guess it could happen.
    • stylecramp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1I would guess your contact information was not up to date. I highly doubt they cared about damaging your credit reputation.
  • charlesroldan, on 10/12/2007, -3/+0In the words of Admiral Ackbar....

    "It's a trap!"
  • Lschutte, on 10/12/2007, -2/+2We (my boyfriend and I) are Netflix users and love it. We are newbies, but find it to be a great service. The best part? No driving. If you are a car-bound city dweller, then running to the Blockbuster two miles away might use up all of your evening free time. Netflix eliminates the commute. Before moving to Los Angeles (yeah, I told you it was a car-bound city) we lived in a pedestrian city. I didn't "get" the Netflix service, but trust me, now I do! I also have to say, the Netflix interface is quite advanced and provides a more satisfying experience than Blockbuster's.
    • Fett101, on 10/12/2007, -2/+2That before or after the recent Blockbuster site upgrade. They loaded it up the wazoo with ajax. Makes it a lil slow on older PCs though.

      Also, liking Netflix over Blockbuster.com because it eliminates the driving is like preferring a Windows PC over a Mac because it gets the internet. Both services are the same basic thing. Compare prices (and throttling perhaps). The prices are exactly the same from what I just looked at, except Blockbuster offers more plans, as well as in store coupons and the Total Access offer. They don't force you to use the coupons or return to stores, but if you're stuck at home on a Saturday night at least you can have the option for free entertainment.

      Yeah... I'm sound like a fanboy, but that's only because I think it's such a great service :D
    • juliocgrajales, on 10/12/2007, -1/+3newsflash blockbuster online
  • 5h1th34d, on 10/12/2007, -3/+0Now we have ads on the front page of Digg?
  • SuperNick, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1Netflix has the independent movies that I like to view. Blockbuster can't compete with that in my opinion.
  • commitone, on 10/12/2007, -0/+3@ juliocgrajales

    You've quoted blockbuster:

    Does BLOCKBUSTER® edit or censor its movies?

    We do not edit or otherwise alter movies ourselves; we offer all movies for rent or sale exactly as we receive them from the studios, so we leave the methodology as to how ratings are applied specifically and completely to the studios involved. We are retailers and not members of the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America), so we take no position on individual scenes or the overall artistic merits of a film. We are not in the content business. We are in the business of exceeding the expectations of our members and customers, and thus our goal is to offer the widest possible selection within our broad parameters of our "no NC-17 or X" standards. BLOCKBUSTER® has always tried to provide our customers with a variety of choices while maintaining our family orientation. As you know, we will not carry "X" rated or "NC-17" rated films. However, there are unrated film titles we feel may contain content unsuitable for children, and we designate these titles with a "YRV" designation, for "Youth Restricted Viewing". Although not pornographic, only members older than 17 are allowed to select these films.



    They may not edit or censor the movies, but they have made deals with the studios to edit it for them. Here's a quote from wikipedia:

    Critics of the chain, including Naomi Klein in her anti-globalization book No Logo (1999), allege that Blockbuster is involved in "censorship," because it not only bans certain titles, but often edits videos for release beyond the standard retail cut, or uses its significant market share to influence studios to do so. Blockbuster's critics claim this editing to secure more "family-friendly" ratings is a necessity for studios if they want their products to reach a wider video market.
    Recent award-winning movies such as Darren Aronofsky's Requiem for a Dream (2000), Michael Haneke's The Piano Teacher (2000) and Pedro Almodovar's Bad Education (2004) have been subject to such editing [citation needed], and are typically unavailable for rental in their original form in most Blockbuster locations, even though the original uncut, unrated theatrical-version DVDs are available at Blockbuster online and for purchase in other retail outlets. Instead, Blockbuster (if it carries such films at all) carries special R-rated versions, issued by the distributors but allegedly designed specifically for Blockbuster's audience, much like the "clean" versions of Parental Advisory music releases found in Wal-Mart stores. Furthermore, Blockbuster does not mark these titles as edited versions so customers are unaware that they are not getting the original version. However, for highly commercial films such as Anchorman or the American Pie series, Blockbuster will often carry an "unrated" DVD release instead of or in addition to the theatrical PG-13 or R-rated cut. In this case, the "unrated" version has often been specifically designed to appeal to the larger older teen market available through Blockbuster stores, advertising enhanced sexual or other content that supposedly would have secured it an NC-17, had this version ever been submitted to the MPAA for a rating. In addition, Blockbuster also uses a "YRV" or "Youth Restricted Viewing" rating system to distinguish these racier, unrated DVDs. Any movie marked as YRV (usually on the same sticker with the barcode) is not recommended for or rented to any renter under the age of 17. With the addition of the YRV ratings, the once censored movies are gradually being re-released into the stores in their original conditions.
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0Blockbuster , i feel, does not have the right to censor a move. They do however as a business have the right to decide what they will and will not stock. If a movie studio decides to edit a film (which I don't think they should do) so that Blockbuster will carry then that is a complaint for the movie studio. Blockbuster does not use their power to force studios to edit the movies, studios do it because they want the money because rentals is the only way to make money on an NC17 an Unrated move.
  • justinwalden, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1Anybody else notice that the netflix homepage has differing prices?
    I went the first time 5 minutes ago and it said "Starting at $4.99" and then I clicked around and went back to the page and it said "$5.99" and the string after the url had changed.

    Price targeting perhaps? Testing out lower prices?

    (Edit: I opened the same $4.99 URL in another tab and the price went up to $5.99, so I guess the end of the url is not the cause.)
  • max420, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1Has blockbuster started carrying HD-DVD or Blu-Ray movies yet? I haven't rented a movie in ages because I only watch High Definition content now. MovieCentral HD is all I need for movies.
    • daverp, on 10/12/2007, -0/+0Yes. They carry most that are out. When viewing a movie click on the "all editions" tab.
    • justinwalden, on 10/12/2007, -0/+1Yes, a cursory glance would reveal both Netflix and Blockbuster offer HD-DVD/Blu-ray.

      Edit:sorry, daverp beat me.
  • TDR25, on 10/12/2007, -0/+2Blockbuster to me never had a good selection of films that I like to watch. Netflix has a lot of old stuff from the 70's and back, so I'll just stick with Netflix. If Blockbuster can update their selection I'll give it another try(I've tried both, and still love Netflix) but until then, Netflix is my choice.
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