BLOCKBUSTER RELEASES ANNUAL RESULTS
Copyright 2001 www.prnewswire.com

[ December13th 2001 ]

Blockbuster has released its annual list of Top Renting DVD, VHS and game rentals, and this year's list shows DVD and VHS format preferences for certain titles.

"We see some big differences in the top titles for the DVD and VHS formats this year," says Jim Notarnicola, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Blockbuster. "The DVD format is expanding the motion picture experience with features like directors' commentaries, behind the scenes and extra footage. Certain movies, such as those with intricate plots or lots of action, are just perfect for DVD, and Hollywood is making full use of this format."

"Films like Unbreakable, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon rented more on DVD than VHS because of those extra features," says Notarnicola. "Watching these films after watching the DVD's directors commentary is like having the director whisper in your ear while you watch the film," he says. "For example, what a different film experience Cast Away was after I found the Easter egg about the contents of that unopened Federal Express box."

Unbreakable was the top DVD rental, and ninth on VHS. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider was eighth on DVD and absent from the VHS list. And Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was 12th on DVD and 20th on VHS.

"The lists offer some great suggestions for holiday movie rentals, especially for everyone who gets a new DVD player from Santa," says Notarnicola. "At Blockbuster stores, customers can rent an ever-changing selection of titles, as well as try out the latest games before they buy."