During the pandemic, many individuals found solace in unique hobbies. For Julia Agostino, 19, from Lexington, collecting movies on physical discs became a cherished pastime. “It’s about comfort,” she explains. “Rewatching films brings back memories, and owning them ensures they’re always accessible.” Alongside her mother Kim, Julia has amassed an impressive collection of around 5,000 movies across various formats. Despite being teased for their "dinosaur" habits, they remain undeterred. A new generation of cinephiles has emerged, driven by nostalgia and a desire to preserve cinematic history.

Rediscovering the Magic of Physical Media in a Digital World

The Appeal of Physical Media

The allure of physical media lies in its tangibility and permanence. In contrast to streaming services where titles come and go, DVDs and Blu-rays offer a sense of ownership that digital platforms cannot match. This sentiment resonates deeply with collectors like Jared Rose, 28, who owns over 3,500 DVDs in Gloucester. The ritual of handling discs, placing them into players, and hearing the familiar hum of the drive evokes a unique experience. Justyn Ferguson, 26, echoes this sentiment, noting that the act of watching a film on disc feels more intentional and personal.Moreover, the rise of social platforms dedicated to film enthusiasts has fostered a vibrant community. Letterboxd, for instance, connects casual viewers with devoted cinephiles, creating a space for meaningful discussions. Content creators like Jeff Rauseo have capitalized on this trend, gaining significant followings by reviewing DVD releases. His success underscores the growing interest in preserving and celebrating physical media.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Streaming Age

While streaming services promised convenience and endless content, they have also introduced challenges. Titles frequently disappear without notice, leaving viewers scrambling to find alternatives. Kevin Koppes, owner of Jamaica Plain’s The VU, Boston’s last video rental store, observes that this uncertainty has led some to reconsider their reliance on digital platforms. “People are realizing that the internet isn’t forever,” he says. “There’s a real fear that valuable content could vanish.”This concern is particularly acute for films outside the mainstream. Independent and foreign cinema, as well as queer films, face the risk of being overlooked or even censored. Video store owners play a crucial role in preserving these works, ensuring they remain accessible to future generations. Jasmyn Choi, a Cambridge resident with over 50 physical films, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage. “It’s like protecting the next Library of Alexandria,” she notes.

Cultural Significance and Personal Connection

For many collectors, films represent more than mere entertainment. They serve as windows into different worlds, fostering empathy and understanding. Liesel Schroeder, 26, working at Bull Moose in Scarborough, Maine, shares how sharing physical copies can deepen social connections. “Giving someone a movie forces them to watch it,” she explains. “It creates a shared experience.”The emotional attachment to films is profound. For Dana Gerber, a Gen-Z enthusiast, the idea of preserving classics like "The Wizard of Oz" is paramount. “When the world ends, I still want to be able to watch it,” she says. This sentiment reflects a broader desire for stability in an uncertain world. Owning DVDs offers a tangible link to beloved stories, providing comfort and continuity.

Preservation and Curation in Independent Stores

Despite the decline of major retailers selling physical media, independent stores continue to thrive. Places like The VU, Cape Ann Cinema’s HelpFlix, and Bull Moose prioritize curation, highlighting underseen films and boutique distributors. Rob Newton, managing director of Cape Ann Community Cinema, curates a section called “seldom-streamed,” featuring pre-1975 movies often ignored by streamers. “These films are part of our cultural history,” he says. “Preserving them is essential.”Owners like Koppes view themselves as custodians of cinematic legacy. While Netflix’s library may fluctuate, his collection remains constant, growing with each passing year. This commitment to preservation ensures that important works remain available, enriching the lives of cinephiles and casual viewers alike.