Journal Response 1

We now live in an era in which its possible to view a major Hollywood film at home on or before the day it opens. This is, of course, illegal. Yet, high-quality copies of every major film currently playing in theatres exist and are easily available via bootlegged DVDs or filesharing programs.

As a consequence, these practices have radically altered, not only the American box office, but audiences' viewing habits. Untold millions of dollars have been lost at a time when more and more people are beginning to prefer watching first-run movies on their computers. All the way, they are aided by technology that makes it ever easier to illegally obtain films.

Pirating has nearly brought down the recording industry, is Hollywood next? What should studios do about it? Is the genie out of the bottle, so to speak? Is there any going back? And as an audience member, what is gained and what is lost by viewing first-run films outside of a theatre? Have these practices changes how you view films? What are your thoughts on illegally downloading films?

Due: Monday, May 3rd.