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NET FLIX Free Resources
BLOCKBUSTER, ...
BLOCKBUSTER, TOO. Nevertheless, Netflix's advantages outweigh its shortcomings -- and put it ahead of the inevitable copycats that have popped up on the Web. I sampled two of the biggest: DVDBarn.com and RentMyDVD.com. Both had subscription plans similar to those of Netflix, but neither boasted as big a selection nor as elegant and useful a site. Meanwhile, Blockbuster's plan to test a Netflix-like service is shaping up as more expensive: The chain plans to charge $24.99 a month for three movies (video or DVD) at once. Unlike Netflix, it will still charge late-return fees if you keep a movie longer than 30 days.
The key question about Netflix: Does it offer enough advantages over your neighborhood video store to justify the monthly subscription fee? If you rent more than four DVDs per month -- or if you rent more than two DVDs per month and are punctuality-challenged when it comes to returning them -- go for it. Without the burden of late fees, you're sure to enjoy the show.
No Hooray for Netflix
Last month's stock market debut of DVD home-delivery specialist Netflix may have been well received but it is no blockbuster epic. Despite the heady growth on the surface, one Fool sees some serious flaws in the company's business model. Flick Netflix, Rick Munarriz says. He has his reasons.
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