There are many channels, models of service, to get a film playing on your TV. Broadcast, and basic cable television continually transmit a random assortment of shows to a home viewer, but with limitations. Firstly both of these models edit films for content and running time. They both insert commercials. Also they both are random not only in their selection but also in their scheduling. The home digital video recorders (DVRs) obviate that problem by allowing the viewer to time shift their viewing schedule, just like video cassette recorders did in the past. Most cable subscribers also get free DVR or play on demand options for programs too. Unfortunately the editing practices continue for these types of channels.
Pay cable channels are much better for viewing an entire unedited show, but then they have their monetary cost. Physically renting a video has been an option for several decades now, but Netflix adjusted that model by shipping the film on its media directly to a customers home. Years later the last remaining bricks and mortar video rental giant Blockbuster has followed suit, but perhaps too late. Several years back, with the expanding digital delivery capabilities of most internet users Netflix was able to change the delivery model again with direct subscription video feed for films to a set top box for their same low fee. While they’ve had their marketing errors, Netflix is still the market leader in the independent delivery of films to viewers through their excellent integration with the highly available and very affordable set top boxes such as Apple TV and Playstation. This same hardware function is found in existing video game consoles, blue ray disk players, or even most modern HDTV’s. Between the low price of Netflix and the availability of free streaming or broadcast TV show’s, cable subscriptions have been dropping.