The Unexpected Revival of Physical Media: DVDs, Blu-rays, and the Gen Z Appeal
In an era dominated by streaming, a surprising trend is taking hold: the resurgence of physical media. From bustling video stores to increased sales of DVDs and Blu-rays, consumers, particularly younger generations, are rediscovering the tangible appeal of owning movies and TV shows. This isn’t simply nostalgia; it’s a deliberate shift driven by a desire for control, curation, and a deeper connection to film culture.
Why DVDs Are Making a Comeback
The numbers tell a compelling story. While DVD sales have been declining for years, the rate of decline slowed significantly in 2025, dropping just 9% after steeper falls in previous years, according to the Digital Entertainment Group. This coincides with a growing interest among Gen Z and millennials in collecting physical copies. Aidan Gannon, a 24-year-old cinephile, exemplifies this trend, recently amassing a collection of 200 discs, preferring to “shop” his own library rather than endlessly scrolling through streaming services.
This preference isn’t solely about convenience. Consumers are increasingly frustrated with the limitations of streaming platforms – content disappearing without notice, the constant need for subscriptions, and the lack of ownership. “If something gets deleted off an online platform, I will still be able to watch it because I have a physical copy,” explains Lauren, a 31-year-old film enthusiast.
The Boutique Blu-ray Boom and Criterion’s Success
The revival extends beyond mainstream releases. Boutique Blu-ray companies, like the Criterion Collection, are experiencing significant growth. Criterion reported “significant year-over-year increases” in sales, attributing this to the enthusiasm of younger customers for physical formats. Peter Becker, President of Criterion, notes that this isn’t just a fleeting trend, evidenced by increased foot traffic at events like the Criterion Mobile Closet.
This surge in interest is fueled by a desire for curated collections and high-quality presentation. Companies like Vinegar Syndrome are similarly capitalizing on this, re-releasing older, niche films that might not be readily available on streaming services. Producer Ed Saxon was “shocked” to see his 1988 film, “Married to the Mob,” receive a new Blu-ray release, highlighting the renewed demand for even less mainstream titles.
Video Stores: More Than Just Rentals
The impact is visible in the revitalization of independent video stores. Vidiots in Los Angeles experienced its biggest month ever in January 2026, renting an average of 170 movies daily and 500 titles in a single day. This represents a doubling of rentals since opening in 2023. Similar trends are being observed at stores like Cinefile, which has seen membership numbers climb from 300 to around 500 post-COVID.
These stores are becoming community hubs, offering a curated selection and a space for film lovers to connect. They provide an alternative to the algorithmic recommendations of streaming platforms, fostering discovery and discussion. As one customer put it, Vidiots is a place “full of people who actually love movies and don’t just want my subscription money every month.”
Barnes & Noble and the Broader Retail Landscape
Even major retailers are taking notice. Barnes & Noble, one of the last large chains to sell movie discs, has seen sales of DVDs and Blu-rays increase by “mid-double digits” in the last year. Bill Castle, Director of B&N’s music and video section, attributes this to a desire for ownership and the convenience of having content readily available without relying on streaming services.
Castle also expressed frustration with studios prioritizing streaming over physical releases, emphasizing the importance of a consistent supply of content to meet growing demand.
The Psychology of Ownership and “Rebellion”
Beyond practical considerations, there’s a psychological element at play. For some, collecting physical media is an act of “rebellion” against the ephemeral nature of streaming. It’s a way to reclaim control over their media consumption and build a personal library that reflects their tastes. As Saxon explains, it’s about “slowing down and getting off this hedonic treadmill of ‘where’s my next stimulus coming from?’”
This desire for tangible ownership mirrors the recent resurgence of vinyl records, suggesting a broader cultural shift towards valuing physical objects and experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this trend just a fad?
A: While it’s difficult to predict the future, the sustained growth in physical media sales and the increasing popularity of video stores suggest What we have is more than a temporary blip.
Q: Will streaming services disappear?
A: No, streaming will likely remain a dominant force in entertainment. However, physical media offers a complementary experience for those seeking ownership and curation.
Q: What types of films are driving this trend?
A: Classic films, cult favorites, and titles from independent studios like A24 are particularly popular, as are recent Oscar-nominated films.
Q: Where can I identify physical media?
A: Independent video stores, Barnes & Noble, online retailers, and boutique Blu-ray companies are all quality sources.
Did you recognize? The Digital Entertainment Group reported a 9% decline in physical media sales in 2025, a significant slowdown compared to previous years.
Pro Tip: Explore boutique Blu-ray companies like Criterion and Vinegar Syndrome for curated collections and high-quality releases.
What are your thoughts on the physical media revival? Share your comments below and let us know what you’re collecting!
