Watch VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media

VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media is a documentary film directed by Ken Powell and Thomas Edward Seymour. The movie depicts the rise of the video store industry in the 1980s and its ultimate decline following the advent of online streaming services. The film is a nostalgic journey that acknowledges the impact of VHS technology on the horror genre and independent cinema.

The premise of the movie is built around the experiences of two filmmakers, Thomas Edward Seymour and Ken Powell as they run a video store in New York City, uncover some of the weirdest movies on VHS, and explore the decline of physical media. The film is a love letter to the video store experience and provides insights into the history of cult films and their lasting impact on popular culture.

Throughout the documentary, Ken and Thomas engage with their guests in a series of interviews to discuss the role that VHS played in the growth of horror and cult films. Some of these guests include Joe Bob Briggs, Lloyd Kaufman, Juliette Danielle, Debbie Rochon, and Ron Bonk. They bring a unique perspective to the film and offer a glimpse into the world of independent filmmaking.

The first half of the movie charts the history of VHS and its impact on the film industry. The documentary shows how video stores became key players in the distribution of films to the public. The video stores became a hub for independent filmmakers as they could now reach a larger audience without the need for theatrical releases. As a result, customers were exposed to a wide variety of genre films that were previously inaccessible.

The second half of the movie focuses on the rise of digital streaming services and its effects on the physical media industry. The filmmakers speculate on the future of cinema and the role that physical media will play in the years to come. The documentary also discusses the potential loss of a tangible connection to movies and how the internet has altered the way we absorb information and media. It presents a compelling argument for the preservation of physical media and the importance of the video store experience.

The movie also features some of the weirdest and most obscure films that were released on VHS. It highlights the B-movie circuit of the 1980s and 1990s and the unique genres that were created. The documentary features excerpts from movies such as Blood Lake, Heavy Metal Massacre, and The Refrigerator. These films may not be well-known, but they are part of the video store experience and offer a glimpse into the strange and wonderful world of cult films.

VHS Massacre is a fascinating documentary for anyone who has grown up in the era of physical media. It takes us on a journey through the history of the video store, to the rise of the digital age, and offers insights into how the past continues to shape the present. The movie is a must-watch for fans of horror and cult cinema, as well as anyone interested in the future of media consumption.

In conclusion, VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media is a tribute to the video rental store experience that many of us grew up with. It explores the impact of VHS technology on the film industry and the rise of independent cinema. It is a must-watch for fans of horror and cult films and provides a compelling argument for the preservation of physical media in the digital age.

VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.