We joined the Coimbatore branch of Cinema Paradiso in June 2008 after much discussion and thought. Though the quality of the DVDs were not at all up to our expectation (given the very high rental costs, several times, we had to return the DVD without viewing), we continued to be members.
In December 2008, less than 6 months into our membership, when we visited the shop , we found it closed. After repeated visits, we realised something was amiss and inquired with the adjacent shop, only to be told to our utter dismay that Cinema Paradiso had shut shop in Coimbatore.
Then onward started the chase for the deposit refund of Rs 2000/-. We called up the Chennai branch of Cinema Paradiso , both the shop as well as their back office, and were told that they had sent out letters to all their customers. Unfortunately we did not receive any.
Nor did they bother to re-send it after our calls. Between December and February, we would have made at least around 20 - 25 calls asking for our refund. Cinema Paradiso has not even once bothered to call back or talk about any refund of original deposit.We have spoken to almost all their staff . only to be told that there is no way we can get the complete refund of Rs 2000/- .
They would refund us only half of the deposit., that too after we write a letter to them giving all our details. When pointed out that it was their decision to shut the shop, so they have to refund us the entire deposit, they were not too bothered and were very indifferent to our calls.
Its been nearly 2 months since my first call, I have yet to hear from them. What kind Of service are they giving to their customers. Or do they think rs 2000/- is too small for any one to fight for? I seriously regret taking a membership there. I would very strongly recommend exisiting members of Cinema Paradiso in Chennai and other places to be extremely wary of what lies ahead of them.
We have been paying through our noses to rent films and end of the day, Cinema Paradiso ends up cheating us. Imagine the amount of money they have amassed by not refunding the full deposit. Very arrogant and disparaging disregard for its customers. Its not a question of money alone but also a question of taking customers completely for granted! Its time we stop getting cheated and become aware of such going-ons !