Netflix subscribers can preview two NBC pilots

Starting Aug 5, Netflix subscribers can check-out a DVD containing the pilots of two highly anticipated NBC series as part of their subscription service. The DVD will contain the full pilots for Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip and Kidnapped, as well as previews and teasers for the rest of NBC's new fall line-up.

NBC had a simliar promotion last year when they offered subscribers of Entertainment Weekly the full pilot of My Name Is Earl as part of their regular magazine subscription. But the premire epiosdes of shows have never been released in this massive a campaign and so far in advance of their premiere dates (almost a good six weeks) before. NBC is hoping to capture a target demographic that uses Netflix as well build some early word of mouth for these both shows and the rest of their fall line-up.

It should be interesting to see how this plays out. Yes, it could capture an audience for these shows but will people be interested in watching the premieres six weeks later? Will audiences instead, having already seen these respective pilots, tune into other premieres and skip these episodes?

It's a risky strategy for NBC, but when you're in fourth place, you've got to do something to make a splash.