Blockbuster Launches Netflix-like Service

Blockbuster has announced the national launch of its 'Movie Pass' subscription service, which allows unlimited movie rentals with no late fees and no return dates.

From Blockbuster’s press release:

Blockbuster Inc. this week launches its in-store Movie Pass. The Blockbuster Movie Pass allows customers to rent an unlimited number of DVD and VHS movies, up to two or three at a time depending on the type of pass purchased, and keep them for as long as they want while on the program. Best of all, with a Blockbuster Movie Pass, there are no return dates and no extended viewing fees.

Available in more than 5,000 Blockbuster stores across the country, the Blockbuster Movie Pass is designed to offer customers more convenience and value in the way they rent movies. Once customers purchase the pass, their credit card or check card is automatically charged the monthly fee so they don’t have to remember to renew. Then, the more movies they rent, the more they save.

“Despite the fact that pigs can’t fly and a certain unmentionable place has not frozen over, we want to give customers the chance to never pay extended viewing fees again,” said Nick Shepherd, EVP and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer. “Customers can choose the traditional pay-as-you-go rental model, or with the Blockbuster Movie Pass, they can pay one low monthly fee, rent as many movies as they want, and never worry about return dates or extended viewing fees again. We’re giving our customers more ways to enjoy movies. In other words, customers can now expect more from Blockbuster.”

For $24.99 per month, members can take up to two movies at a time — as many times as they want — and keep them for as long as they want while on the program. For $29.99 per month, members can choose the three-movies-at-a-time option.

“So, for one low price, the Blockbuster Movie Pass allows customers to rent more without having to spend more. In fact, the more they rent, the more they save. The pass can also be a great tool for our members who are trying to budget their entertainment dollars. The pass is good for all DVD and VHS titles and as long as the customer remains on the program, there are no return dates and no extended viewing fees,” added Shepherd.

Blockbuster has a similar national program for games. Introduced last year, the popular Blockbuster Game Pass is available for a monthly fee of $19.99 and it allows members to rent as many games as they want, one at a time, throughout the month.

With the Blockbuster Movie and Game Passes, that’s unlimited rentals, no extended viewing fees, no return dates — no kidding! More savings, more ways, more from Blockbuster.