If you thought your old VCR was destined for the junkyard, think again! VHS tapes, stars of the 80s and 90s, are coming back to the forefront. Disney recently created a stir by announcing a VHS release for Alien: Romulusa decision initiated by director Fede Alvarez. “ It’s not just a marketing stunt “, he assured. “ I wanted to rediscover the unique experience of my youth, the magic that VHS offered. ” Result ? The limited edition, sold for $60, is already sold out.
The irresistible charm of magnetic tapes
And Disney is not alone in this niche. The movie Y2K by Kyle Mooney, a science fiction comedy set in early 2000, will benefit from a VHS release next January. Priced at $30, this special edition should delight retro fans. As for the slasher Streamfrom the team behind the franchise Terrifierit will be available in February, cropped in 4:3 format for maximum “vintage” effect.
But why this return to grace? Nostalgia obviously plays a role, but not only that. Vera Drew, director of The People’s Jokera film about a young trans and comic girl, has also opted for a VHS release. “ My film is designed to look like a VHS tape found in an analog dream “, she explains. For her, this format offers a tactile and timeless dimension. “ It’s something you can touch, keep, lend to friends. An item that won’t disappear from a streaming catalog overnight. »
Frank Jaffe of distribution company Altered Innocence agrees. “ Physical media like VHS allow you to create a community, a bond. It’s much more than just a viewing format. » This trend, particularly visible in the United States, gives these cassettes an almost sentimental value.
However, don’t expect a revolution in your stores. All of these releases are limited editions, mainly aimed at collectors. And for good reason: VHS does not compete with modern formats in terms of quality and they deteriorate quickly. The fact remains that they embody a return to the tangible in a world dominated by digital. So, are you ready to get out your VCR and rewind some memories?
???? To not miss any news on the Journal du Geek, subscribe on Google News. And if you love us, we have a newsletter every morning.
Related News :