There was a time not long ago when the only people who could sit in a chair all day with eyes glued to a monitor were video game players. Not any more. TV show creators and licensors have found that if they sell box sets of TV shows, by season, there is a big market.
I know — my daughter has been watching “Modern Family” for weekends. Seasons of “24,” “The Sopranos.” “Deadwood” and “Breaking Bad” are making the rounds and being consumed in in fairly short timeframes across the country. People are binging.
Selling these box sets makes near-term economic sense but does not create the kind of traction serialized, once a week viewership does. As a very young ‘un, strawberry shortcake was my favorite confection. Until one was left in the refrigerator and I had my way with it. All of it.
Box sets kill water cooler time. They create burn-out. And even expose warts. I really want to buy the box set of Showtimne’s “Homeland” but will wait until I can have it meted out in smaller gulps. Marketers should always leave custies asking for more. Peace!