Blockbuster Video: 10 Things We Miss About The Iconic Movie Rental Paradise

Ah, Blockbuster video. Once a thriving video rental chain, today it’s a distant memory of a bygone era. I have so many fond memories of going to Blockbuster with friends and family to find movies to watch.

One of my daughters recently asked me about Blockbuster and I told her about the days when I wander the aisles, scouring the shelves for the perfect movies to watch that night, and I was struck by that feeling of nostalgia that pushed me to write an article about some of the things I miss most about this beloved establishment.

Here are the top ten things I miss about Blockbuster Video:

1. The Thrill of the Hunt – There was something exciting about searching for the perfect movie or game in Blockbuster’s vast sea of ​​options. Whether you were in the mood for a classic film or the latest blockbuster hit, the hunt was half the fun. I’ve always tried to look for older movies that I’ve never seen before and spent a lot of time in the horror section.

2. Fantastic Staff – Blockbuster employees were always eager to help you find what you were looking for or offer a recommendation. They were like the movie experts you could turn to whenever you needed guidance, and it was always fun to talk to them about movies!

3. The sense of community – Blockbuster was a gathering place for movie lovers. Whether you were chatting with other patrons in the aisles or in line to pay, there was a sense of camaraderie you can’t replicate with streaming services.

4. Interacting with people in real life: I understand that there is an online community of movie enthusiasts on the different social media apps and platforms and websites like GeekTyrant, but I have enjoyed talking to people at video stores. At least we still have cinemas!

5. The Anticipation – Remember the excitement of waiting for a new release to hit the shelves? Blockbuster was the place to go for the latest and greatest titles, and the anticipation to get your hands on one was palpable. When a new movie came out, I’d call them to save a copy so I could pick it up.

6. Promotions and Specials – Blockbuster often ran promotions such as “Rental 2, Get 1 Free” or discount offers, making it an affordable option for movie lovers. My favorite was when they put their used films on sale for cheap!

7. The Selection – With thousands of movies and games to choose from, Blockbuster had something for everyone. And if they didn’t have what you were looking for, they could always order it for you.

8. The Smell – Who can forget that distinct Blockbuster scent? That musty yet somehow comforting aroma that filled the air as you walked through the door. It was like stepping into the smell of a world full of cinematic possibilities.

9. Physical Media Artwork and Packaging – Holding a physical DVD or VHS tape with its unique artwork and reading the synopsis on the back created a tangible connection to the film. The physical media aesthetic was integral to the Blockbuster experience.

10. The Satisfaction of Returning a Movie – Hear me out, completing the movie viewing journey by returning a rental to Blockbuster provided a sense of accomplishment. It marked the end of an experience and left you eagerly anticipating the next cinematic adventure.

I made so many memories at Blockbuster. Whether it was a family movie night or hanging out with friends, Blockbuster was where memories were made. And for that reason alone, it will always hold a special place in our hearts.

While we may have moved on to the convenience of streaming services, I can’t help but long for the days of Blockbuster Video. It was a place where movie lovers could come together and experience the joy of cinema in a way that cannot be replicated in the digital age.

What are some of your memories of Blockbuster Video? What are some of the things you miss about Blockbuster that I haven’t covered?