Arrow Video for Blu-ray Collectors: What to Know Before You Buy
From cult classics to horror gems, here’s how Arrow Video became a leader in boutique physical media.
I'm excited to revive a series I started a few years back on my YouTube channel called Boutique Blu-ray Spotlight. A lot has changed in the physical media landscape, especially in the post-COVID era, and I think it's time we revisit some of the key players. These videos, and now the accompanying blog posts, will shine a light on independent Blu-ray labels: the boutiques doing amazing work outside the big studios.
This first spotlight is all about Arrow Video, the very first boutique label I ever purchased from. If you've ever wondered what “boutique” even means when it comes to Blu-ray, or asked “What’s Arrow Video?”, well, you’re in the right place.
Check out my video below for an in-depth look at some of Arrow Video’s titles, or keep reading for more information!
My Introduction to Arrow Video
I stumbled onto Arrow Video early in my collecting days, around the same time I discovered Shout! Factory. Back then, Arrow was mostly UK-based, so I ended up importing a bunch of their releases. I paid way too much in shipping, but it was worth it for these super cool cult horror titles that just weren’t available elsewhere.
Their original focus was squarely on cult movies, horror, and international films - think J-horror, giallo, and underground slashers - but in the last 4–5 years they’ve massively expanded their catalog. These days, you’ll find everything from sci-fi and action to thrillers and drama. They’ve even started licensing films from major studios like MGM, Paramount, and Warner Bros., not just obscure genre fare.
What Makes Arrow Releases Special?
Arrow releases typically come in one of two forms: standard editions and limited editions. The standard editions are already impressive with clear, sturdy Blu-ray cases that include reversible artwork, clean packaging, and strong transfers. Some early pickups of mine included Microwave Massacre, Phantom of the Mall: Eric’s Revenge, The Crazies, and Killer Klowns from Outer Space.
Then there are the limited editions, which step things up with premium packaging, exclusive booklets, newly commissioned art, and posters. A couple personal favorites are Cat O' Nine Tails and Deep Red, both featuring beautiful thick slipcases, posters, and multi-page essays.
Arrow also produces some excellent box sets. Their Ringu trilogy set offers stunning restorations of the original Japanese films, and the American Horror Project volumes gather up lost regional horror titles you’d probably never discover otherwise. Another standout is their deluxe Hellraiser set, loaded with a massive booklet and 4K remasters of Clive Barker’s classics.
They’ve also ventured beyond horror, with impressive 4K editions of movies like True Romance, Dark City, Swordfish, The Long Kiss Goodnight, A Simple Plan, and Wild Things. Whether you're into martial arts (they’ve done multiple Shaw Brothers box sets), Italian thrillers, or cult sci-fi, there's probably an Arrow release with your name on it.
Where to Buy Arrow Video Releases
Arrow’s own site is a great place to start. They have a rewards program and you can get $5 off your first order with my link.
If you're in North America, you'll also want to know about MVD, Arrow’s U.S. distributor. Their store at mvdshop.com often runs deep discounts, especially if you’re signed up for their emails.
Other great retailers include:
Amazon – Reliable for basics, but not always the best price.
Orbit DVD, Bull Moose, Grindhouse Video, and Diabolik DVD – Excellent for collectors.
Hamilton Book – Carries newer Arrow stock at great prices.
Barnes & Noble – They’ve started offering 50% off Arrow sales, similar to their Criterion sales.
Arrow Video continues to impress with its range, its packaging, and the love it pours into each release. If you’re new to boutique Blu-ray labels, or looking to expand your collection beyond the mainstream, Arrow is a great place to start.
What are your favorite Arrow Video releases? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to check out the full video for an in-depth tour of some of my personal collection!
What I like about Arrow and Vinegar Syndrome releases is that they care. Because they are truly committed to the value of physical movie collecting which is an experience that is becoming totally lost to the convenience of streaming video. I like the idea of obtaining booklets or film posters that are included with their limited edition 4K Blurays. A few of my titles include Barbarella and Phase IV.
Arrow Video, Kino Lorber, and Criterion are my three favorite boutique labels. My favorites are from Arrow, though: Tremors, The Hellraiser Scarlet Box Set, Dune 1984, The Last Starfighter, The Dunwich Horror, The Last House on the Left 2009, and my recent acquisition from them: The Lady Whirlwind and Hapkido double feature, because I AM into the whole martial arts scene. When it comes to special features, I think Arrow is almost on the same level as Criterion.