As you enter the physical media collecting world, you will quickly discover that some films are difficult to find physically. This is often due to a multitude of reasons, most often being that they are no longer in print. This is why boutique companies are extremely important in the world of physical media. They work to restore and distribute films making them once again, or sometimes for the first time ever, widely accessible to the masses. I have put together a list of six leading boutique companies that I would recommend checking out.
The Criterion Collection was founded in 1984 with the goal of publishing and distributing important films from around the globe. They offer a selection of DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD releases with high quality video, remastered audio, original cover art, and bonus content.
Arrow Video‘s work began in 1991 and has since become a leader in the restoration and theatrical distribution of classic and cult horror films. They offer a selection of DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD releases with original cover art, restored video/audio, and bonus content.
Shout Studios created Shout Select and Scream Factory to restore and distribute films. While Scream Factory focuses primarily on cult classic horror and sci-fi, Shout Select is their distributor of other genres. They offer DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD releases with restored video/audio and bonus content. In addition, I feel compelled to share with you that Shout Select currently has the entire Studio Ghibli collection available in DVD, Blu-ray, and Steel Book with the exception of Grave of the Fireflies.
Vinegar Syndrome is another company that set out to restore in distribute films. Their primary focus is films from the 1960’s through 1980’s. They offer a selection of DVD, Blu-ray, 4K UHD, and the occasional VHS releases.
Severin began in 2006 with the goal of restoring and distributing not only mainstream films but also cult classics. They offer a selection of DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD releases with restored video/audio, bonus features, and exclusive slipcovers.
In 1977, Kino Lorber set out with the goal of importing and releasing international films that were not widely available in the U.S. They offer a selection of DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD releases with restored video/audio and occasional bonus content.
It is important to keep in mind that the prices for boutique physical media releases will often be higher than a standard release. This is due to the work put into restoration and the inclusion of original artwork and bonus content. Most boutique companies offer great sales throughout the year and I recommend purchasing during those times.
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Over the years, movies have given me room to express myself and have helped me to find community. Currently I find myself watching primarily horror/thrillers (David Cronenberg and David Lynch have my heart) but I also love Studio Ghibli and have a special place in my heart for Star Wars and the MCU. When I’m not watching movies, I’m either thrifting physical media, adding to my Scarlet Witch collection or working my retail job.
My Favorite Movies: The Mummy (1999), Clue, Howl’s Moving Castle, IT (1990), and Mamma Mia