I recently read an article on Lifehacker about how Netflix is in talks with some movie studios in regards to cutting the cost of the DVDs they buy from the studios significantly. In exchange, Netflix will be required to withold new releases until 30 days after the initial DVD release. I feel that this is a bad move on their part and felt inclined to tell them so. I encourage you to do the same. This is what I wrote to Netflix via http://www.netflix.com/ContactPR:
I recently read a post on lifehacker.com regarding a possible plan to delay availability of movies for 30 after their DVD release. This is an absurd idea. There are two ways that people will react to this.
1). Blind Indifference – The reason people use Netflix is to see movies whenever they have a chance to. Just because a movie isn’t available for 30 days doesn’t mean people will rush out to purchase (or rent) the DVD. My account, for example, has close to the 500 disc limit imposed on accounts so it will be a LONG time before I get around to watching any new releases.
2). Sheer Outrage – I know several people who are willing to cancel their accounts over this. Why are they paying you money if have to go to a Brick and Mortar to get new releases anyway? Chances are those of your (former) customers that fall into this category will end up pirating the movies as a form of protest against the movie industry.
In neither case will it drive up DVD sales, and at best you will simply keep your customers at the status quo. I understand that it would cut your costs significantly, but how is this a good business decision on your part?
(http://lifehacker.com/5402449/netflix-may-delay-new-release-movies-by-a-full-month)