LOVEFiLM is one of the largest online video rental portals in Europe. Founded in December 2003, the company’s customer base exceeded the two million mark for the first time at the beginning of 2012. In addition to Germany, LOVEFiLM can also be used in Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Since January 2011, the provider has been completely owned by the mail order company AMAZON. The head office is in London, the German head office is in Munich.
The principle with this provider is simple and uncomplicated. On the homepage, customers can choose from around 52,000 films and have them sent home by post in DVD, Blu-ray Disc or 3D Blu-Ray formats. The lending length of a Disc is not limited, therefore also no overdraft fees can result. The customer can compile an individual loan list from the titles. On the basis of this list, the title priority determined by the customer and the availability, the desired disc is then dispatched promptly. The customer will not be invoiced for the postage incurred for sending the disc. A pre-funded return envelope, which is enclosed with the delivery, does not incur any further costs for the return.
Playback options
In addition to the normal rental offer, a number of selected films are offered, which can be viewed on demand directly via a registered account on the homepage. This means that the films are streamed directly to the home computer.
It can be accessed via various receivers – not only the computer but also portable players such as the iPad, Playstation 3, the XBOX 360 or Internet-compatible Sony televisions.
Players
Computer: Windows, Mac OS
TV: Sony TV sets, Samsung Smart TVs
Player: SONY Network Media, SONY Blu-ray Player, Sony Home Cinema Systems
Console: Playstation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii
Tablet: iPad, Kid Fire HD
Packages and Prices
The LOVEFiLM offer includes various packages with different tariff options. Films cannot be called up individually. The smallest rental package allows you to rent two discs per month at the same time and costs 4.99. By ordering the flatrate 2 for 17.99 it is possible to rent unlimited discs per month. With all packages it is to be noted that only one or two discs may be kept at home at a time. The sending of further titles is possible only again after return of a Disc borrowed before. In addition there is the possibility to test each package for 30 days free of charge. All packages can be cancelled monthly at any time. More information about prices and further option details of the different packages can be found here.
LOVEFiLM test result
LOVEFiLM offers a huge range of films from various categories. Renting is quick and uncomplicated. In addition, there are no additional shipping costs for returns. The rental packages on offer can be cancelled monthly. The Video on Demand section is still relatively clear, but should be expanded. Overall, LOVEFiLM offers a convincing alternative to conventional DVD and Blu-ray rental.
Pro
Very large selection
many playback options
free shipping
Test 30 days free of charge and risk
Contra
No individual rental
Expandable VOD selection (Beta)