Obscure9876
8 years agoNew Contributor
New definition for the word 'FREE'
While exploring On-Demand's free content sections, I discovered its Free Movies directory and ultimately the MoviePlex channel's free movie offerings. Filled with almost 100 titles, it appeared to offer of nice selection of movies across a wide variety of genres. Recently our family settled in for a Saturday night popcorn-fest, selected a movie guaranteed to please all ages and punched the 'Run' button on the remote to begin.
Unfortunately instead of the expected searchlights accompanied by a booming symphonic score, we were treated to yet another solicitation in what has sadly become this company's ceaseless quest to sell another pay channel. Upon sequent investigation, I found that almost half of the listings offered were in fact similarly unavailable. Since when did the definition of the word 'FREE' change from its original meaning of 'without cost or payment'.
As a comparison, when I visit a local multiplex cinema offering free Classic Movie matinees a few days each month, I think it reasonable to assume that if a listing is offered, it will in fact be available to watch ...for free! Likewise I expect to pay to watch all of the latest blockbusters playing in the rest of the cinemas because they are clearly identified as being pay to view.
And I don't begrudge the many channels in question from offering additional movies without cost to their paying subscribers as additional perks. Such benefits represent market capitalism at its best. What I do find frustrating however, is that On-Demand and/or Cox are either too lazy or indifferent to identify this simple difference in their Free Movies menus. It certainly appears that in the world of cable television and content providers, FREE DOES NOT ALWAYS MEAN FREE!
Maybe its time to read a good book instead.