> What about sequential playing without user interaction?

         cvlc *

> What about persistent arbitrary play ordering?

        cvlc `ls | sort -R`

dropbox is just a remote folder which I can sync with rsync, right?

> cvlc `ls | sort -R`

Results in a same sequence once the loop completes. You should use `cvlc -Z` instead; I also happen to use `mplayer -shuffle` for this exact purpose.

> cvlc `ls | shuf`

gives you a different sequence every time

Okay, I have assumed "persistent" being a loop. The loop is being randomized but it is fixed once arguments are passed to cvlc.

why would you want to see a movie twice on the same binge?

VLC is useful as an audio player as well.

because they are watching music videos...