Written by Riley Carr. Graphic by Ananya Panchal.
Before Netflix became the hub of convenience for movie-goers, DVDs and other home media were prominent in the mid-2000s. Underneath the TV in family living rooms, usually housed 10-20 DVDs or VHS tapes. Even certain gas stations had spinner racks of movies. The titles were far from “Citizen Kane,” you were most likely to find films like “Big Ass Spider!” for $4.99, or “Mega Python vs. Gatoroid” for an even greater deal of $3.99! Physical media was more than just a trend. It was a culture and a social activity that tied people together. There’s a stronger personal connection that comes with placing a disc inside a player, or being able to flip over the back of a DVD and see the different scene photos. Though we may be living in the age of streaming, physical media will always be important for a number of reasons.
One of the greatest things about owning physical media is the security it provides. While it may not match the finger tip convenience that modern technology is known for, owning DVDs or VHS tapes gives owners the power of exclusivity. During the mid-2000s, almost everyone owned DVD players. This made lending to a friend or relative second nature. If a friend was missing the second “Indiana Jones,” fear not, because you owned the entire box set. Sure, it’s more convenient to stream a film, but titles on streaming are rarely permanent. Streaming platforms remove titles monthly for reasons such as expired licenses, studio exclusivity, etc. Your favorite movie or show may be gone by tomorrow’s search. When you own a personal copy of a movie or show, there is never fear of the disappearing act that streaming platforms are known for.
A simpler but equally important reason is that physical media are tangible. However convenient or inconvenient it may be, people love the idea of being able to physically feel something. It’s a natural high, feeling the weight, texture, and scuffs along the side of a DVD or VHS tape. It personalizes the connection to that particular film. Connection leads to commitment, something that tends to be lost with most streaming platforms. For instance, my “continue watching” list stretches over various streaming services. I tend to go by the 20 minute rule. If I don’t feel attached to what I’m watching, it’s over and on to the next generated recommendation. When watching a DVD, there is a stronger sense of commitment. After all, I’m putting down money for a singular film, even if it is only $3.99 at a gas station. For better or for worse, I’m seeing it through to the end.
Streaming services have their place. I subscribe to multiple and acknowledge their convenience in this time of instant gratification. But there is a joy in owning your favorite movies on hand. Call it melancholic nostalgia or hopeless romantic syndrome, but I believe there will always be an importance to physical media. The joy of cracking open a DVD and pressing play is unmatched to the mere click of a remote. The quality may not compare, but the experience and commitment far surpass.
