Many entertainment channels like MTV and VH1 are jumping on the internet bandwagon and offering most of their own shows on their websites. Once episodes air on television, they can be found online with many bonus features.
“(The) Internet has become the main course of life,” said Alexander Gelfand, 36. “We socialize online, we shop online, and now we watch television online. That is the only outlet you need to connect with the world.”
Gelfand says that he frequently gives in to the temptation to watch shows and movies online because it’s just “all around more convenient.” Whether it’s from the channel’s website directly or from third-party websites that offer video streaming, he says that he rarely has the time to dedicate to the good old tube.
“I like the traditional method of watching televisions when I really want to take pleasure in a nice movie,” he said. “But for quick entertainment, internet is the way to go.”
Now that the internet seems to be taking over the world, and watching movies and shows online is becoming increasingly popular, people can’t help but question just how long they'll be able to enjoy these guilty pleasures before being charged for them. Some say that it’s only a matter of time until cable companies like Comcast, Time Warner, and Cablevision decide to claim their share.
“Although people pay for internet to watch programs online, sooner or later somebody will start charging per show or per movie,” predicted Bader. “Whether it’s going to be the cable companies or websites, only time will tell.”
Bader says that some video streaming websites already charge a monthly subscription fee, but many of them still offer services at no cost.
“Many people who pay for cable still watch movies and shows online just because of the convenience,” said Gelfand. “If you had to pay for the movies and shows, everyone would go back to the original way of entertainment – the television.”
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