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Mike's avatar

re: Redbox. Yes, it was a bit of unfortunate timing — basically, an automat version of the old video stores — but it definitely filled a niche. In my experience, their locations were evidence of this. They set up in neighborhoods where the residents might not (he said delicately) be able to afford the monthly fees for multiple streaming services. Neighborhoods that also have dollar stores and check-cashing places. It might not always make a successful business model, but it's useful to consider the needs of people in different demographics, let's call it, and who definitely don't read "Wired". Data point: our local library has a BIG shelf of DVDs that people can check out.

>no “Moony McMoonface.”

Let the people speak! :)

Nancy Friedman's avatar

Excellent points. I suspect the Chicken Soup takeover was the kiss of death here. They should've stuck to sappy (soupy?) clichés.

Honolulu Quirk's avatar

Thanks so much for the lovely recommendation, Nancy! And for this especially meaty Linkstack, which has already caused me to open WAY too many browser tabs...

Carol Kino's avatar

OMG the Barbra ice cream recipe - need to make it!

Ray Banks's avatar

"Additional Cage recommendations are welcome."

At the risk of this growing arms and legs, I'll try to keep it brief: outside of the obvious ones (BRINGING OUT THE DEAD, RAISING ARIZONA etc.) , you can't go wrong with PIG, MANDY or JOE; I also have a peculiar soft spot for MOM AND DAD and COLOR OUT OF SPACE. Whoop - arms and legs already ...

Nancy Friedman's avatar

"Pig" is on my watchlist!

Ray Banks's avatar

Fantastic! It’s a real gem, I hope you enjoy it.

Lyn Chamberlin's avatar

I was bereft when I finally finished I Am Barbra. It was a long and painful good-bye. I stretched the final chapters out, reading little bits, not wanting to get to the end. When I did, it was as if a close friend had died. I miss her still.

Susan Orlean's avatar

Thank you so much, Nancy!!