Action thriller as Eircom takes on Netflix with new film-rental service

Eircom is set to take on movie-streaming site Netflix following the launch of its own video-on-demand service.

Customers of Eircom’s TV service will have access to eVision on Demand, allowing them to rent a wide range of films, including the latest blockbuster releases.

Launched yesterday, the service initially offers more than films and, unlike Netflix, will allow customers to download films to watch off-line.

“This is a distinct proposition that allows customers watch the latest Hollywood releases at home, on any mobile device while you’re out and about, or even on holidays through a wide range of devices or through their eVision box,” said Eircom consumer managing director, Kevin White.

The service, which is expected to grow its selection to more than 1,000 films within a few months, allows customers to watch a movie as many times as they like within a 48-hour rental period. The service also enables customers to download a movie to their mobile device to watch offline and then have up to 30 days before they start viewing.

Latest releases will cost from €3.99 to rent, with older films available from €1.99. Some of the movies that are currently available to rent include 12 Years a Slave, Noah, Amazing Spiderman 2, Dallas Buyers Club, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and Divergent, as well as Irish movies Calvary and The Stag.

Charges for films will be added to customers’ Eircom bills, removing the need to input credit-card details.

The service was launched yesterday by Transformers star Jack Reynor, who will next appear on screen in Irish human-trafficking drama, Glassland, and in a supporting role alongside Marion Cotillard and Michael Fassbender in a screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

Netflix charges new Irish users €7.99 a month for its service.