Legality of Downloading and Recording:
* Downloading: Downloading copyrighted content without permission from the copyright holder is generally illegal, even if it's a movie you already own on a physical format. This is because you're creating a digital copy without authorization.
* Recording: Recording TV shows from your own TV for personal viewing is generally legal in many countries (with some exceptions). This is often referred to as "time-shifting." However, there are often limitations:
* Commercial breaks: You can't record commercials and then later delete them.
* Sharing: You can't share the recording with others.
* Streaming services: Some streaming services may have specific terms and conditions prohibiting recording.
The Case of Missed Episodes:
* Legality: If you missed a TV episode and want to download it, the legality is uncertain. The question is whether you are essentially creating a digital copy of a broadcast you didn't watch in real time. There's no clear answer, and local laws and court precedents might differ.
* Alternatives: If you missed an episode, it's generally safer and more ethical to:
* Check streaming services: Most streaming services offer back catalogs of shows, making it easier to catch up.
* Purchase episodes: You can often buy individual episodes online or from retailers.
Important Considerations:
* Copyright: Copyright laws are complex and vary by country. Always check the specific laws in your location.
* Fair Use: In some cases, there may be a "fair use" defense, but this is usually restricted to specific circumstances like educational or research purposes.
* Streaming services: Many streaming services have terms of service that specifically prohibit recording their content.
The Bottom Line:
While the legality of downloading a missed episode is not definitively answered, it's generally safer to use legal alternatives like streaming services or purchasing the episode. If you're unsure about the legality of something, it's always best to err on the side of caution.