The Return of a Legend?
In the world of digital consumption, we are now experiencing an impending revival of old ways. People are craving physical copies of entertainment. We have evolved in a significant way to have digital media, short-form content, and overall, everything online at our disposal. Given the years of these forms of media, we have now hit a standstill, I believe. Which is why Blockbuster may need to come back?
Blockbuster, founded by David Cook in 1985, was the leading retailer for video-on-demand services, as well as video game rentals. It provided a memorable experience for many who walk through the doors. This was the era of purchasing hard copies of movies, which marked the height of family gatherings.
(*Pssst, so I came across a short lived TV series starring Randal Park based on the famous superchain on Netflix, if you would like to check it out!)
Today, the number of Blockbuster locations has dwindled from 9,000 to just one, which is now located in Bend, Oregon.
I can recall visiting our local Blockbuster, located around the corner, with my Dad growing up. Whenever he would come to the house on Friday nights, we would get in his pickup truck and drive to rent movies. I remember the blue-stained walls and the people in lines waiting to rent the latest release at the time. I didn’t realize it at the time, but this was a surreal moment that I should have appreciated, but, of course, I was young.
However, in the past year, I have seen an influx of people, especially the younger crowd, craving the simplicity of nostalgia. This realization led me to wonder: In a world of digital consumption, why are people suddenly craving physical copies of media again?
Streaming Fatigue is Real
One of the main reasons people are returning to traditional forms of media consumption is the rising cost of digital alternatives. According to Reviews.org, the average American spends $42.38 per month on their streaming subscriptions, totaling $508.56 per year and $30,513.60 over a lifetime. With rising costs in food, housing, and everyday expenses, it’s no surprise that subscriptions are also increasing. I have also found myself in the same boat. With this in mind, do we reach a point where we feel overwhelmingly fatigued by subscriptions or streaming in general? Should we be giving up the simple luxurious in life to combat the growing cost of everything?
With the growing cost of everything, the return of physical copies of media seems like the best solution, if everyone decides to turn away from streaming. Streaming companies can’t take or control what people have in their own possession.
I recall streaming being the leading competitor alongside cable many years ago. The price tag for convenience was at the forefront. It was simple, easy, and affordable at the time. However, we are seeing a shift in how we consume movies and television today.
I believe many people are experiencing a form of burnout. For example, one streaming platform offers one movie that might interest you, while another platform offers a different one. This curation creates a sense of waste for individuals and households on how money is spent. In an article from September 2025 on FinancBuzz, 24% of households report paying for at least three additional streaming services than they did one year ago. Another 21% are now paying for two more streaming services. The amount of limited movies and series on these streaming platforms has created a bubble of having multiple subscriptions. More subscriptions equal more money coming out of your pocket.
Nostalgia Sells Like Hotcakes
Just as the section suggests, Nostalgia Sells Like Hotcakes. The last Blockbuster in Bend, Oregon, has become a grand tourist attraction, which still operates as a notable hub. In my experience, the presence of this attraction is not widely known. I didn’t even know it existed until a few years ago, when I stumbled upon the internet.
Recognizing that a brand like Blockbuster can withstand the pressures of streaming in today’s digital landscape is notable.
Regarding Gen Z and Millennials, the driving force behind the revival of retro brands and nostalgia, I feel is a response to the overstimulation of technology. The experience of going to pick out a movie or waiting for a film cartridge to be developed on a Kodak camera are some the memorable experiences I have. It is time for this upcoming generation to find the appreciation in simpler things.
DVDs, CDs, Making a Comeback???
DVD players were in every household and CDs were still popular in the early 2000s. I remember taking a Discman everywhere I went replaying the same songs over and over. However, there was a significant decrease in DVD and CD sales once streaming began.
According to Statista, CD sales nearly halved between 2000 and 2007, which is when smartphones and the first music streaming services emerged.During this time, the first iPod debuted and changed the way we consume music overall. There was no need for CD players or discmans anymore; everything was easily accessible right in the palm of your hand.
In recent years, I have seen the resurgence of CDs, which are once again coming back into existence. Will they make a complete comeback? Probably not, but the idea of the younger generation becoming interested in CDs, cassettes, and vinyl is a good sign of embracing media.
Vinyl sales, on the other hand, have hit a record of $2.4 billion in sales and 43.6 million records sold in 2024. Recent data indicate a resurgence in the ownership of physical records. People want a tangible, collective experience.
Now is the perfect time for Blockbuster to re-enter the market effectively. This presents a unique opportunity to relaunch the franchise, opening its doors to timeless movie releases, nostalgic merchandise, and an overall sense of familiarity that many people still cherish. Embracing this nostalgia could pave the way for a successful comeback.
Given the scope of today’s technology, the need for DVD players and VCRs may also need to make a comeback. It’s funny because I know some people who still have such devices. With big name companies becoming more “money hungry” and powerful, people need to reconsider going back to the old ways of living.
Streaming may be coming to an end, or maybe not. Owning tangible items such as movies or a whole tv series is much more reliable nowadays, than paying $15.99 for a limited selection of curated media.
Not Just a Comeback, A Reinvention
Blockbuster isn’t just about movies; it’s about the memories and the fun that comes with choosing a film to watch with friends and family. I believe now is the perfect time for Blockbuster to reopen its doors. Having a physical store can be eye-opening for the younger generation.
We live in a digital era where every form of media is online. Many people no longer want to have all of their eggs in one basket. Is this the reinvention we need at this time?
Could Blockbuster be the anti-streaming experience that people, especially the younger generations, are craving? Drop a comment below to share your opinion on the matter.
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