Actor and physical media enthusiast Tim Simons joins Sean to discuss the growing trend and value of physical media, the importance of preserving and appreciating movies on physical media, the role of writers and editors in film, exploring movies old and new, and the significance of physical media in today's digital age.
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Quick takeaways
Building a physical media collection provides access to films not easily available on streaming platforms, allowing for exploration of genres and directors.
Physical media encourages curiosity and discovery by enabling viewers to take risks and discover hidden gems or niche films.
Box sets and special editions enhance the viewing experience by providing additional context, behind-the-scenes features, and insight into the filmmaker's oeuvre.
Deep dives
Importance of Physical Media and Building a Collection
Building a physical media collection provides an opportunity to have a curated selection of films, including those that may not be easily accessible on streaming platforms. It allows for the exploration of different genres and directors, creating a personal library reflective of individual taste. Physical media also holds a sense of nostalgia and the potential for discovering hidden gems or lesser-known films. Organizing and curating a collection can be a rewarding experience, especially when seeking out special editions or box sets that provide additional context and features.
The Pleasure of Taking Risks with Physical Media
Physical media offers the chance to take risks and delve into movies that may be outside of one's comfort zone or lesser-known. It allows for the discovery of hidden gems, cult classics, and niche films that may not be readily available on streaming platforms. Taking a chance on lesser-known or unconventional films can lead to unique and enriching cinematic experiences. Whether it's venturing into the works of lesser-known directors or exploring genres that are outside of one's usual preference, physical media encourages a sense of curiosity and discovery.
The Value of Collecting Box Sets and Special Editions
Box sets and special editions provide a unique and comprehensive viewing experience. They often come with additional context, booklets, behind-the-scenes features, and insight into the filmmaking process. These collector's items not only enhance the enjoyment of the films but also provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the director's oeuvre, genre, or specific theme. Box sets and special editions are highly prized by cinephiles for their attention to detail, quality restoration, and the ability to showcase a filmmaker's complete works or a curated selection of films.
The Preservation and Accessibility of Film through Physical Media
Physical media ensures the preservation and accessibility of films, especially those that may not be readily available on streaming platforms or those at risk of being lost or forgotten. It allows for the ownership and control over one's collection, independent of licensing agreements or changes in streaming services. Physical media offers a tangible and permanent connection to cinema history, allowing audiences to revisit classic films, discover rare or out-of-print movies, and curate a personal library that can be enjoyed for generations. It provides a sense of security and longevity in an increasingly digital and ever-changing media landscape.
Max Mengella and his love for physical media
Max Mengella is known for being a dedicated collector of physical media, particularly VHS tapes. He has been spotted in video stores and even has his own collection of tapes. He values the emotional weight of physical media and believes in prioritizing quality over quantity in his collection. Mengella also emphasizes the importance of sound and picture quality, advocating for investing in higher-quality editions to enhance the viewing experience. He mentions the influence of Martin Scorsese's film, 'Killers of the Flower Moon,' and expresses the desire to own it in physical form.
Goals for the year: Focus on emotional value and completionism
In terms of collecting physical media, Max Mengella and the host discuss their goals for the year. They aim to focus on films that hold emotional value and prioritize completing collections of favorite directors or filmmakers. Mengella mentions being inspired by Todd Haynes and Ken Russell, while the host expresses interest in exploring the works of Miyazaki and Todd Fields. Both also discuss upgrades to sound and picture quality, as well as the nostalgia and intentional focus that comes with using physical media.
Sean is joined by actor and physical media enthusiast Tim Simons to refresh their conversation on the state of Blu-rays and physical media in the world of cinema.
