Looks like Netflix
Viacom
One can argue that Netflix didn't need Cartman and Squidward on its team. The company has been bucking the recessionary trend without Viacom's animated attractions, tacking on subscribers during this economic downturn.
However, the new additions provide just one more reason for Netflix to merit respect as a digital video juggernaut worth emulation. As recently as two years ago, investors wondered whether Netflix would disappear once the optical disc faded in popularity. These days, no one asks that anymore.
Netflix has been able to beef up both ends of its digital distribution strategy. It has partnered with existing set-top devices like TiVo
Netflix has also been working on content, with 12,000 digital titles -- and counting -- now available through Netflix. Major studios may still be reluctant to practically give away their latest releases, but does it matter? Sites like Netflix and Google's
"Are you ready, kids?" begins every SpongeBob SquarePants episode. And Netflix is definitely ready.
Other Netflix-ish headlines: