Blockbuster Video: 10 Things We Miss About the Iconic Movie Rental Haven

Ah, Blockbuster Video. Once a thriving chain of video rental stores, it now stands as 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 that I use to wander the aisles, scanning the shelves for the perfect movies to watch that night, and I was hit with that feeling of nostalgia that prompted 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 amidst the vast sea of options at Blockbuster. Whether you were in the mood for a classic film or the latest blockbuster hit, the hunt was half the fun. I always tried to look for older films that I had never seen before and I spent a lot of time in the horror section.

2. The awesome staff - The employees at Blockbuster 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 talking to them about movies!

3. The sense of community - Blockbuster was a gathering place for movie lovers. Whether you were chatting with other customers in the aisles or standing in line to check out, there was a sense of camaraderie that you just can't replicate with streaming services.

4. Interaction with people in real life - I get there there is an online community of movie fans on the various different apps and social media platforms and websites like GeekTyrant, but I sure did enjoy talking to people at the video stores. At least we still have movie theaters!

5. The anticipation - Remember the excitement of waiting for a new release to hit the shelves? Blockbuster was the place to be for the latest and greatest titles, and the anticipation of getting your hands on one was palpable. When a new movie came out, I would call them to set a copy aside so that I could pick it up.

6. Special promotions and deals - Blockbuster often ran promotions like "Rent 2, Get 1 Free" or discount offers, making it an affordable option for movie lovers. My favorite was when they would put their used movies 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 scent of Blockbuster? 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 filled with 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 aesthetics of physical media were an integral part of the Blockbuster experience.

10. The satisfaction of returning a movie - Hear me out, completing the movie-watching 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 the place 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 just 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 just can't be replicated in the digital age.

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