The beginning of the end of physical media (Changelog & Friends #16)
Oct 6, 2023
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Guest Christina Warren from GitHub joins the hosts to discuss the end of physical media, reminiscing about DVDs and Blu-rays. They talk about the decline of physical media, the role of Redbox, and the convenience of digital formats. They also explore the impact of technology on the film industry and express concern over the pressure for every film to be a blockbuster. Reflecting on the transition to digital formats, they bid farewell to physical media.
The decline of physical media, such as DVDs and Blu-rays, is lamented due to the loss of access to rare and out-of-print content, commentary tracks, and special features.
Streaming services like Netflix have played a significant role in the decline of physical media, providing convenience and accessibility but also highlighting issues of geographical limitations and regional internet connectivity.
While streaming offers convenience and instant access to a wide range of content, it falls short compared to physical media in terms of DRM restrictions, limited titles, and the absence of special features that film enthusiasts value.
Deep dives
The Nostalgia for Physical Media
The speaker expresses sadness over the decline of physical media, particularly DVDs and Blu-rays. They reminisce about the experience of going to video stores, browsing through titles, and engaging with the extras and special features. They lament the loss of access to rare and out-of-print content, as well as the commentary tracks that were once available. The speaker also mentions the inconvenience of DRM restrictions and the challenges of maintaining a Blu-ray player for certain films. Despite the availability of streaming, they argue that physical media provided a unique and cherished experience, especially for collectors and film enthusiasts.
The Impact of Streaming and Changing Times
The speaker reflects on the evolving landscape of media consumption, noting how streaming services like Netflix have played a significant role in the decline of physical media. They discuss the convenience and accessibility of streaming, but also highlight the issues of geographical limitations and regional internet connectivity. They mention the shift in viewing habits, where treats like behind-the-scenes content and director commentaries became less significant to consumers. The speaker also touches upon the impact of broadband availability and how rural areas can be affected by limited streaming options.
The Promise and Limitations of Streaming
The speaker discusses the advantages and limitations of streaming compared to physical media. They mention the convenience of streaming, specifically how it circumvents the need for physical hardware and allows for instant access to a wide range of content. However, they express frustration with issues like DRM, limited access to certain titles, and the lack of special features available on streaming platforms. The speaker argues that these limitations can be especially disappointing for film lovers who value the extras and behind-the-scenes content associated with physical media.
The Future of Physical Media
The speaker ponders the future of physical media, particularly in relation to companies like Redbox and the decline of DVD rentals. They question whether Redbox will continue to exist or fade away as streaming becomes more prevalent. The speaker also raises the question of hardware requirements, such as Blu-ray players, for maintaining physical media collections and how this can impact long-term access to content. In conclusion, the speaker encourages the preservation of physical media and emphasizes the importance of making it more accessible and user-friendly for enthusiasts and collectors.
The Challenges of Physical Media and Digital Preservation
The speakers discuss their concerns about the decline of physical media and the implications for future generations. They highlight the loss of ownership and the potential erasure of cultural artifacts. They also touch upon the importance of digital preservation, especially in terms of archiving films, TV shows, and other digital content.
The Impact on Filmmaking and the Loss of Small Budget Films
The speakers delve into the impact of the shift away from physical media on the film industry. They discuss the financial limitations brought about by the decline of DVD sales and the rise of data-driven decision-making. They express concerns about the lack of room for smaller films, limited innovation, and the focus on blockbuster hits. They emphasize the value of artistic chances and long-term thinking in filmmaking.
On September 29th, Netflix shipped its final DVDs, marking the end of an era in physical media. So, we invited our friend Christina Warren (aka film_girl) from GitHub to pour out a drink with us and lament the end of this golden age of access to the films we all love.
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