Disney's 28-Day Ban on New-Release Rentals

[Ernest Rister]

Is it just me, or does this feel very retro? For those who don't know, Disney is withholding rental copies of their new films for 28 days, to help spur sales of their new-release titles. It reminds me of tactics used in the VHS markets back in the late 80's and the 90's -- I thought we'd moved past this ancient business model, that it was recognized by now that when people have more access to information (such as renting a movie versus taking the blind-buy risk), they are more comfortable making purchase decisions later -- that a thriving rental market and pay-tv market and cable market helps drive sales of physical media.

Thoughts?