OLD SKOOL VIDEO SHOP (Blockbuster)

Member Name: JJJJ

Product:	Blockbuster
Date:	15/10/08 (110 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: The non-virtual selection of a video is more pleasing

Disadvantages: Price will have to come down for it to survive

'Blockbuster' is an international chain of video stores, the first of which opened in mid-eighties Dallas Texas.

The main trade of the store is movie rental, and films are available in both standard DVD and blu-ray format. In my local shop, the blu-ray selection of discs has been steadily increasing as more and more customers are acquiring blu-ray players.

The shop stocks predominantly new releases, although there is a small selection of the better-known older films which are also available.

The new releases on both DVD and blu-ray cost around £3.95 to rent, which nowadays only entitles you to one nights viewing.

As well as films, Blockbuster also hires and sells video games for a variety of platforms. In some of the larger stores, the shop actually sells used consoles and peripherals for fairly low prices.

Most of the stores also accept 'trade-ins' - for example, you could get money off the purchase of a new film by handing over some of your own pre-owned titles - although you generally get very little for the exchange.

Becoming a member of Blockbuster is free and fairly easy. Firstly fill out the form which can be downloaded from www.blockbuster.co.uk, and then bring it, along with proof of your address (e.g a utility bills) and proof of signature to your local branch.

I know Blockbuster has received a number of negative reviews, but I actually highly recommend the shop. In an age where everyone seems to be renting online, I enjoy the act of physically browsing and selecting a movie. Whilst you're there you can buy popcorn and ice-cream, which makes for a more cinematic (...and costly & fattening) experience!.

I'm not sure how much longer a shop of this type will be able to survive due to recent advances in technology allowing download on demand film rental - so in terms of the old fashioned video store, use it or lose it!

Summary: Fairly good selection of movies & games