In an era where streaming dominates, Night Owl Video in Brooklyn stands out. As the last remaining video store in New York City, it is experiencing a significant resurgence, particularly among Gen-Z customers. The store, co-owned by Aaron Hamel and Jess Mills, is celebrating its first anniversary this weekend and is already looking to expand due to heightened demand for physical media.
Revival of VHS and DVDs in Brooklyn
Opened in April 2022, Night Owl Video has become a hub for film enthusiasts. The store specializes in VHS tapes and DVDs, constantly attracting a diverse array of shoppers from local Gen-Z fans to overseas collectors. Its slogan, “death to streamers/physical media forever!” captures the essence of the nostalgia-driven movement.
Growing Popularity Among Generations
- Night Owl Video caters to a diverse audience including Gen-Xers and millennials.
- Popular requests feature notable titles like the Oscar-winning film “Sinners” and classic series “Twin Peaks.”
The store has experienced a steady influx of customers, prompting an expansion of inventory and operating hours to seven days a week. The addition of a new employee further ensures the shop can meet the growing demand as it continues to stock more titles.
Unique Offerings and Collectibles
Hamel recently acquired a collection of 300 skateboarding tapes from the 1980s. This is expected to create a “feeding frenzy” among customers once they are available for purchase. In addition to movies, the store offers trading cards and various film-related collectibles.
The Trade-In Program
Night Owl Video encourages customers to bring in their old media, including VHS and Betamax tapes. This trade-in program not only diversifies stock but also allows customers to discover rare items. The store has around 12,000 titles, with prices ranging from $10 to $20.
- Customers often excitedly anticipate the arrival of specific titles.
- Jess Mills noted the challenge of finding classic films like “Napoleon Dynamite” on VHS.
As streaming services continue to increase in cost and restrict options, many customers express frustration. Hamel believes that the appeal of physical media resonates well with Gen-Z, who appreciate the simplicity of VHS—no menus or ads to navigate, just instant access to their favorite movies.
Future Prospects for Night Owl Video
With its growing popularity, Night Owl Video might be looking at a larger space in the future. The owners are committed to optimizing their current 800-square-foot shop while fostering community among film lovers. Their journey reflects a broader trend: a resurgence of interest in nostalgic forms of media amidst the overwhelming landscape of digital content.
As Night Owl Video celebrates its first year, it stands as a testament to the power of community and nostalgia in the ever-evolving world of media consumption.
