Blockbuster Total Access: An Awesome Alternative to In-Store Rentals

I have to admit, I was skeptical when I received an offer to try Blockbuster Total Access free for a month. This offer was located via Facebook, so I was hesitant; however, I figured after a month, I could always cancel the membership. I have been a longtime member of Blockbuster but had recently stopped renting there due to the price (around $4 for a new release rental) in lieu of cheaper rental options, such as Redbox. However, the Blockbuster trial has turned into one of my favorite services, based on the features, selections, and great deal that this service provides.

As a member of Blockbuster Total Access, I pay $19.99 per month for three rentals at a time. If you rent just five movies, you've already paid less than in-store rentals and have saved gas along the way. Blockbuster Total Access also offers unlimited rentals per month, so if you watch movies quickly, you can get through as many movies as you desire. To this date (about four months of membership), I have rented 42 movies, which is more than I would have in the store. Also, if you can't wait to see a certain movie, Blockbuster offers the option to exchange five of the movies received by mail with in-store choices. With so many options, I was instantly sold on this product.

Accounts can be set up via www.blockbuter.com, where consumers can set up an account. Next, you will be instructed to make a My Queue list, which in which you will add movies that you want shipped to you. This action is completed by users searching for a movie that you are interested, then clicking "add" underneath the movie list. Once in the Queue list, you can rearrange your selections by clicking the "Go to Top" arrow, so you can get your favorite choices as soon as possible. The Queue list also tells you the MPAA rating of the movie, the year it was released, the format, and how long of a wait that you will have. Most movies are readily available; the longest I waited was about a week for a movie. If the movie isn't in stock, Blockbuster will ship your next choice and send the other film as soon as it becomes available.

The Total Access website also has some neat features that will impress all movie lovers. After you have rented a few movies, Blockbuster will suggest other films you might enjoy based on your taste. Also, Blockbuster gives a list of current theatrical releases that you can add to your Queue; when the movie is released onto DVD, it will then be shipped to your house. This is a great way to save money by not visiting a theater and also helps to remind viewers about past movies that they may have forgotten about. The website also maintains a nice list of film suggestions in numerous categories, including Award Winners, Documentaries, Gay and Lesbian, International, and so forth. Blockbuster does an excellent job to provide something for every taste.

When I use this website, I especially like to think about the money I save through renting. In the past, I bought many TV shows on DVD, simply because I liked to own the collection and could take a long time to watch the season. However, I now use Blockbuster to view most of the shows I like. With no due dates, there's no pressure to watch a show quickly; rather, I can take my time, enjoy the show, and save money I would have spent otherwise.

The best feature of this program is the speed with which movies are received. I've averaged about a two-day turn around. Usually, I can mail a movie in and expect a replacement in two days, though I have had instances where I've received a movie the next day. Blockbuster will also send an e-mail stating the movie that they have received back, along with the name of the new film being shipped and the date of expected arrival. Again, the speed of shipping is outrageous and well worth it.

Above all, Blockbuster Total Access provides an excellent service that goes above and beyond a customer's expectations. The site is easy to navigate, and the suggested films are always welcome. Blockbuster also offers the option to allow a friend or family member try the site for free, based on the customer's recommendation. I imagine that many of my relatives will take me up on this offer. If you're a movie buff or even a casual viewer, I urge you to check out this great deal.