My Journey into DVD and Blu-ray Collecting: An Old Start and a New Beginning

Remember the days when DVD technology was still in its early stages? It was a fascinating time in the world of home entertainment, where collectors like myself dove into a bucket full of options and possibilities. Today, I'll recount my journey into DVD and Blu-ray collecting, starting from my very first purchase and how it has evolved over the years.

My First Steps with DVDs

As a teenager, I began my DVD collection with a fervor that mixed with a bit of naivety. Back then, the concept of home video collection was just beginning to take shape. Among the first items I purchased was Starship Troopers. This choice was driven by a desire to test the quality of the movie's CGI imagery on a home screen. The film was also notable for requiring a mid-disc flip to continue, making it a unique entry in my collection.

Early Favorites and Obsession

My first acquisitions were not random choices. I quickly became obsessed with films that captured certain genres and eras. My early collection was a mix of classic films and cult favorites. I purchased several movies from the acclaimed director Krzysztof Kieslowski, like his 'Colors Trilogy,' consisting of films like 'Red,' 'White,' and 'Blue.' 'Lovers on the Bridge,' 'La Collectionneuse,' and '400 Blows' by Truffaut, and even a Monty Python film, all found a place in my guest bedroom shelving unit.

The Evolution of My Collection

Over time, my collection grew from a simple curiosity into a serious passion. With the advent of Blu-ray technology, I was able to enjoy the movies I had collected in even higher resolution. The transition from DVDs to Blu-rays brought a new level of detail and enjoyment, reigniting my interest in collecting. I often say to myself, 'He was a very strange man,' referring to how my collection will be seen by future generations.

More Recent Additions: The Matrix and 3D Cinema

While my earliest collection was a mix of classic films, I have also expanded to include more recent works that stood out for their visual appeal. One such film is The Matrix. Although I eventually sold my copy of US Marshals, the fact that I still have the Matrix DVD speaks volumes about my attachment to that film. More recently, my collection included the 3D version of Coraline. My purchase was motivated by both the cult following of the film and its 3D feature, which was rare and intriguing for the time.

Conclusion: A Continuing Passion

My DVD and Blu-ray collection journey started with a simple question: what was my first purchase? But it has grown into so much more than that. It's a testament to my love for films, the craftsmanship of classic cinema, and the evolving technology that has allowed me to re-experience and appreciate these films anew. My collection is a burden to my heirs, but it is also a legacy that I am proud to share.

In this rapidly evolving world of entertainment, the thrill of collecting DVDs and Blu-rays remains alive and well. Whether it's the nostalgia of old classics or the excitement of new releases, the journey continues.