Discussion about this post

User's avatar
Daniel Lona's avatar

The number of modern shows that aren't getting a physical release is upsetting.

Even some of the most popular series don't receive a Bluray release. Some that I'd kill to get a complete series on Bluray or 4K are The Queen's Gambit, Stranger Things, White Lotus, Barry, and Handmaid's Tale. Just for starters.

It feels like the percentage of new shows that are released on Blu-ray/4K is getting smaller all the time. Which is sad for those who value true ownership, media preservation, and/or watching art in the best A/V format possible.

To some degree, I understand that unpopular series that only receive one or two seasons may not be profitable for businesses to release on physical media. (Though, as you say, Jeff, there should still be options for consumer preservation. Maybe an option to purchase a digital license.)

And, now, even many movies don't receive a physical media release, especially if they were a Netflix project. It's a disturbing era in this regard, for sure.

All I know to do is vote with my bank account. I try to purchase as many streaming shows that interest me on Bluray/4K as I can. (And, of course, many movies.)

Expand full comment
Marc Caputo's avatar

This trend has alarmed me as well and it’s tuned into a bit of a phobia when you think of something like Westworld, which needs time to savor and digest and rewards repeat watching, not available on Max or HBO. Thankfully, there are physical copies, but they will surely sell out at the retail level and they’ll go for Godawful amounts on eBay and the like.

Thank God I have my Moonlighting DVDs!!

Expand full comment
4 more comments...

No posts