FOTC Online Pre-Release: Redefining Media Conventions & The What it Means

I got excited about the online premiere of the first episode from season 2 of Flight of the Conchords.

You may have noticed.

I'm tired at the moment, but I want to jot down some of the implications of this internet-before-tv release:

1. FOTC and HBO are redefining the traditional order of media release
2. HBO recognizes the viewing habits of this audience; much more online and busy. This audience can't commit to a certain time each week to watch their favorite show.
3. FOTC has a huge rewatchability (you heard it here first!) and have proven to be a huge hit online with their first season and stand up. With FOTC, HBO has a show that lends itself to being sliced and digested over and over (mostly because the songs are so damn catchy). So instead of running ads against one 30 minute program, HBO can run ads against 5+ 3-4 minute shorts.
4. The viral spread of the season premiere will happen naturally and will be more quickly digested than could the TV counterpart. Furthermore, those who saw it early will likely still tune in on Jan. 18th with new-comer friends, trumping everyone with their exclusive knowledge of the episode.
5. HBO and FOTC can get crowd reaction in real time. If the feedback is good, HBO can put more support behind the show. If interest for the show has waned during it's haitus, HBO can prepare and not highlight the show in the coming months.
6. HBO is getting free advertising. Instead of spend tons on costly banner ads promoting a TELEVISION SHOW ONLINE, why not just put your TELEVISION SHOW ONLINE? Two birds, one stone.
7. With this move, can FOTC be considered an online series, akin to Quarter Life or Dorm Life? If you can only watch it online (for now), isn't it an online series by definition?

Flight of the Conchords is exploring some unchartered waters with this move. I liken this to be to TV Series viewership what the Radiohead "In Rainbows" album release was for music distribution. They are redefining media channels to better target and please their audience. Time will tell if this strategy works. Oh, and the series has to be funny.

And on that note, I'm going to go watch the video now...