Misc Musings: Why is this not on digital?

This is not a post about physical media vs. digital media. My take on that? I'm all for ALL media channels/distribution. It's not a zero sum game.

That said, being a person living in a fairly small place (and have done for nearly 12 years), the lack of storage is a huge factor for me. I want to continue to build up my digital library so I can save space for the physical books & DVDs that I want to keep.

However, in some cases, this is proving to be a perfect pain in the patootie.

Why, pray tell, are some movies not available digitally when they are available on DVD? I'm not talking about golden oldies (aka, pre-digital age), but fairly recent offerings. Why can't I buy say, Bride & Prejudice? If there's already a digital file, why not make it available for purchase/rental/streaming?

I do understand about older movies, shows and books. I'm all for creators renegotiating royalties for a different medium that didn't exist when the original contracts were signed. I can be patient (mostly!). But more recent TV/movies? C'mon, it's not rocket science. Give your viewers options. I'm pretty sure you'll make money.

And, don't even get me started on shows/movies from other-than- [insert your country here] not being available for MONTHS after airing. Doctor Who, Downton Abbey, Merlin… the list is long and tedious. I absolutely hate these stupid country/region rules. In today's world, it makes no sense whatsoever and encourages acquisition by less than ethical means.

I want to be able to purchase & watch these shows and discuss with my UK friends while they are airing. Not months later. By the time some of these air in the US, my UK peeps have long since moved on. To me, fostering online discussion & interest is a great way to entice new viewers. Why is this so bloody difficult to understand?

Yes, I do know that these are the problems of the privileged. I acknowledge this. Doesn't change the facts, though. I'm still cranky.

/ranty mcrantypants