I would like to download them to keep/own. It appears some sites cater to specific formats (iTunes for one I believe) limiting the device I might be able to play them on.
Netflix basic 8.99 pm service allows you to download them. You can, at the same time, get two (not one) DVD’s mailed to you at a time, and rip them to anything you like. They also have a pay service that works with set tops, and can be converted other formats, like iTunes.
Personally, I very much enjoy Netflix, I think it’s a good value. I have downloaded movies, and converted them using the free video downloader FireFox plugin, and then burned them to DVD.
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/3006
Have fun.
I don’t know if there’s many sites that’ll allow you to download movies for free. I believe there may be various ‘tricks’ for doing it on sites that’ll let you watch full length movies, but I don’t know how it’s done. You would probable then have to convert it to a practical format for your intended usage.
Do you have the free version of RealPlayer? If so, I believe it comes with a free format converter. I have it now, but I'm not 100% positive I got it with the free player or with a 14-day free trial on an upgraded version.