From playground debates to subreddit theories, what the death of weekly TV has cost us culturally

From playground debates to subreddit theories, what the death of weekly TV has cost us culturally

By Bradley Schagrin

By Bradley Schagrin

Explore generational myths, youth trends, and the decline of streaming TV with author L.A. Davenport. Is streaming fatigue signaling a shift?

Streaming is over. The magazine is back. And everyone who’s too online is apparently getting off again. The time is ripe for an analog revolution. And where better to start than the stacks? A…

The Criterion Closet, a mobile boutique for physical media, has expanded to a permanent location at Cinema Cellar in Toronto, drawing large crowds and signaling a resurgence in physical media consumption. The store, located at the corner of John and Nelson streets between the TIFF Lightbox and Scotiabank Cinemas, has become a popular destination for film enthusiasts, with lines forming around the block on its third day of operation. Cinema Cellar, formerly known as Unobstructed View, rebranded after being acquired by Blue Fox Entertainment last year. The store's executive vice-president, Ian Goggins, noted that approximately 80-85% of visitors are under 30, indicating a generational shift in media consumption habits. Goggins explained that the rise in physical media popularity is linked to 'streaming fatigue,' with younger audiences who grew up with streaming seeking a more intentional viewing experience. The Criterion Closet, which previously operated as a mobile unit during the Toronto International Film Festival, attracted over 1,000 visitors in a single weekend last year. This year, the permanent store has already surpassed that number, averaging about 750 customers per day since opening on September 10. Criterion, a boutique distributor of physical media, is known for its curated selection of films and high-quality packaging, featuring contributions from renowned filmmakers like Martin Scorsese and Guillermo del Toro. The store's success has been bolstered by the broader trend of physical media resurgence, similar to the vinyl record revival. Cinema Cellar's manager, Dave Hudakoc, emphasized that the store aims to create a community hub where customers can discover new films, rather than just sell products. The store's approach has been embraced by other local film retailers, such as Bay Street Video, which has maintained a 33-year presence in Toronto by adapting to market changes. Bay Street Video's manager, Brendan Whelton, welcomed the competition, stating that 'a rising tide raises all ships,' highlighting the growing interest in physical media across the city. The article also notes that the store's 700-square-foot space can accommodate up to 20 customers at a time, with visitors spending about three minutes in the store during their visit. This model has proven successful in creating a unique shopping experience that combines the nostalgia of physical media with the convenience of modern retail. The resurgence of physical media is not limited to Toronto; it reflects a global trend where consumers are seeking more tangible and intentional ways to engage with media content. As streaming services continue to dominate the market, the demand for physical media is growing, particularly among younger audiences who value the curated experience and collectible nature of Blu-ray and 4K discs. The success of Cinema Cellar demonstrates that there is still a strong market for physical media, even in an era of digital dominance, and that the key to success lies in creating a community-focused experience that resonates with both older and younger film enthusiasts.

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Audio-visual librarians are quietly amassing large physical media collections amid the IP disputes threatening select availability.