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?
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