Kate Howard
Reporter
In the era of computers, laptops and iPads, it’s no surprise that online movie and TV watching is becoming increasingly popular. Many students are ditching their television sets and trips to the movie theater for Internet alternatives of Hulu and Netflix to view their favorite episodes at anytime.
According to sophomore Meghan Callahan, using online resources to watch TV is more convenient because it doesn’t conflict with a busy schedule. “I usually watch shows like Glee, Modern Family and Bones online because I have so much homework and stuff going on during the week that I don’t have time to watch them until later,” she said. Other online destinations Meghan visits for catching television shows on her laptop include iTunes and websites such as SideReel and theWB.com.
With the help of Hulu, junior Phoebe Wilks said she is able to stay current with her favorite series. “Sometimes you miss episodes during the week and you need to keep up with the season,” Phoebe said. Although freshman Emily Brand likes Hulu for the same reason as Phoebe, she recognizes its limited selection. “Hulu doesn’t always have everything,” Emily said. “It doesn’t offer older episodes unless you subscribe to Hulu Plus.”
Emily also said another favorable feature of these online TV resources is shorter advertisements.”Long TV commercials interrupt the fluidity of the show you’re watching, but I don’t mind Hulu’s short 3o second interruption as much,” she said.
For those like sophomore Tommy Worcester, Netflix is worth the monthly subscription. “I like Netflix because it allows access to full seasons and movies that I can watch on my Xbox. It also has more accessibility and a wider variety of things to offer,” he said.
Despite all the benefits of these online viewing possibilities, sophomore Taylor duPont admits that they are drawbacks like buffering, weak internet connection and a long loading time. Taylor also said watching a movie on your computer can’t compare to the experience of watching it when it first comes out in theaters. “The popcorn, huge picture and surround sound makes it more exciting,” she said. “But I do like watching [movies]in the comfort of my own home.”
Through the Internet, senior Chris Freeman finds himself seeking entertainment on his computer more frequently because the Internet plays a regular part in his life today.”Watching movies online is so convenient because our computers are centers of our lives,” Chris said. “We socialize, talk, learn, and entertain ourselves all on our computers.”
