AOL Streaming Vintage TV Shows
AOL begins streaming free full episodes of “vintage” or “classic” (some might say euphemisms for old) TV shows here. Like Live 8, this could prove an important moment for online video as broadband consumers get accustomed to watching full-length TV shows (as opposed to clips and shorts) on their PCs.
The viral elements (IM and e-mail) as well as the choice (the ability to watch any available episode) are noteworthy and strikingly different from conventional TV viewing. I must say, however, my limited experience with the site this morning was not entirely satisfying, but perhaps that’s to be expected with a beta launch.
It’s quite easy to see how contextually relevant, behaviorally or location targeted ads can and likely will be built around this, which shows the way for IPTV to some degree. One might argue that AOL is loading up too many distracting graphical ads around the experience already.
What will be important is how the public reacts to the content and uses the site.
It’s a really awesome lineup which will lead to extended AOL usage. I mean, who can resist viewing these shows on AOL In2TV:
* Welcome Back, Kotter
* Chico & The Man
* Alice
* Kung Fu
* Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper
* Spenser: For Hire
* Pinky and the Brain
* The New Adventures of Batman
Heck, I’m having “staying home from school” flashbacks already.
And I love this line from the press release:
“the slapstick antics of Cousin Balkai and Larry in Perfect Strangers”
Yes, unlimited Larry & Cousin Balkai!
Where’s Who’s the Boss? on this lineup?
Where’s Hawaiian Eye on this list. It’s a great detective show from the sixities with Robert Conrad and Connie Stevens. It ran for 4 years from 1959 to 1963. Please see if you can this one.