Physical media ownership is regaining popularity with film buffs
Digitalisation has completely transformed the world of entertainment. Moving this industry online opened the door to a new level of accessibility, breaking down both physical and time-related barriers.
Entertainment remains captivating in all its forms
Technological progress is unavoidable, especially in fields driven by innovation. Just look at cinema. With 4K and 8K resolution, the viewer experience has become more immersive than ever. And online entertainment has advanced just as dramatically. Classic slot machines, for example, have made the leap into the digital realm, while sports betting adds an extra layer of excitement.
Gaming, in particular, is a huge part of today’s entertainment world. In digital format, games are far more accessible than their traditional counterparts, with online payments making purchases seamless. Still, physical media like DVDs somehow retain their charm. That nostalgic experience continues to draw fans – even in a world dominated by digital transformation.
How have physical formats survived the digital age?
At first glance, digital trends seem to signal the end for anything “classic”. But the reality is more nuanced. In entertainment, physical formats have proven surprisingly resilient. They haven’t vanished – in fact, they continue to attract a broad audience. Film enthusiasts, in particular, still feel the pull of physical media.
DVDs might seem outdated, but they still spark curiosity. And while vinyl has made a comeback in music, DVDs and Blu-rays have a similar appeal for movie lovers. They allow fans to watch their favourite films anytime, just like streaming – but without the risk of titles disappearing from the platform. That permanence is a key advantage.
The market reflects this tug-of-war
Market trends show that physical media still has its place. Projectors are still in demand, and DVDs and CDs haven’t vanished completely. True cinephiles value their physical collections. They’re often well-versed in film history and seize every chance to expand their libraries.
Owning a film, with its original cover art and tangible presence, feels entirely different from browsing a digital library or clicking on a thumbnail. Streaming is more popular and more convenient, which puts pressure on physical media. But it hasn’t wiped it out completely.
Today’s market is split. On one side are users who prefer the speed and simplicity of streaming. They enjoy the convenience and instant access. On the other side are the collectors – the purists who treasure the experience of owning a film. They’re willing to invest in physical media because, to them, it’s about more than just watching a movie.
At the same time, major studios are leaning heavily into digital-only releases. That might make business sense, but it leaves collectors out in the cold. For them, physical media isn’t just storage, but a passion. And these items may become even more valuable over time. For die-hard fans, these collections are a tangible reminder of cinema’s golden moments. They’re relics that, if well preserved, hold significant emotional and cultural value.
For many collectors, owning a physical copy offers a sense of permanence and control that streaming just can’t provide. Digital libraries are subject to licensing agreements, regional restrictions, and sudden removals. A beloved film might vanish overnight without warning. But a disc on a shelf is protected from that uncertainty. It’s yours to keep, lend, or revisit whenever the mood strikes. There’s also a tactile pleasure in unwrapping a VHS, DVD or Blu-ray – reading the liner notes, admiring the artwork, and placing it carefully into a curated collection. It’s an experience that goes beyond passive viewing.
Takeaway
While physical media is far outnumbered by streaming subscriptions, it hasn’t disappeared. It endures, weathering the digital shift with quiet persistence. This isn’t just a technological evolution – it’s also an emotional one, understood best by collectors. Digital may be easier, faster, and more convenient, but it will never quite match the nostalgic magic of a classic physical release, or the joy of holding a piece of cinematic history in your hands.
The editorial unit
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