Netflix Initial Service Review

I started using Netflix on November 21st, and thought it might be appropriate to provide a review. I’m using their three-out-at-a-time program ($19.50/month as of account activation, dropping to $17.99/month at the end of my current billing cycle). I figured this might be cheaper than trying to rent all these movies through the local Blockbuster. I’ve managed to rent quite a few movies this month:

DVD Title

Sent by Netflix

Returned

Aladdin: Platinum Edition (1992)

11/22/04

12/02/04

Time Bandits (1981)

11/22/04

12/06/04

Hearts and Minds (1974)

12/02/04

12/07/04

To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)

11/22/04

12/08/04

Whale Rider (2003)

12/07/04

12/13/04

Wag the Dog (1997)

12/08/04

12/13/04

Smoke Signals (1998)

12/06/04

12/15/04

Short Circuit (1986)

12/13/2004

12/20/2004

Crusade: The Complete Series: Disc 1 (1999)

12/13/04

Out

Crusade: The Complete Series: Disc 2 (1999)

12/15/04

Out

Short Circuit 2 (1988)

12/20/04

Out

Overall, with 11 movies rented during this time period, the cost comes to $1.77 per DVD rented, much cheaper than Blockbuster stores (which averages $3 to $4 per rental, if not more). Overall, the service is great, and due to the closeness of the nearest Netflix repository — which, for me, is in Tacoma, about 30 minutes north — I get my new DVDs the day after they ship. Great service, highly recommended.