Use these links to get involved! Ebay.com/usr/cerealatmidnight Patreon.com/CerealAtMidnight CerealAtMidnight.com Facebook/CerealMidnight Twitter: CerealMidnight Instagram: CerealMidnight Letterboxd: CerealAtMidnite Shop: CerealAtMidnight.Threadless.com
I figured you had to hit that wall soon. I've been spending a lot of time lately cutting down bulk in my collection, especially from thrift stores. DVDs in flimsy cases with dull cover art are going into binders. I cut out the the back if there's pertinent info. I reuse the good cases but most are sent to Recycling. So many of these DVDs and blurays have zero resale value after fees and shipping. In some cases I am combining lots but they usually move slowly. But it costs the same to ship a pound of DVDs via Media Mail as it does one so big money saver.
I'm more of a book collector with all kinds of special editions, etc. But I have also built up my physical media collection during the pandemic and have learned a great deal from sites such as this one. Whatever it is you're collecting, I think the shift to curating is largely a mental one. You might look at your titles and think they all have some meaning to you. But once you have curated your collection, you discover you weren't really as attached to some of them as you may have thought. Indeed, once you start curating, I think you'll find you value your collection more. That's because you are narrowing the collection down to the titles that truly are meaningful to you (in whatever ways you define that).
I feel this! I have definitely started to think about my collection in a different way as it grows. But the collector and archivist in me wants to keep them all. But I definitely have been dropping the older formats as I upgrade.
Jeff, we should combine forces and go in on a warehouse space like those kids on Tik Tok who have huge creative spaces. but it could just be to store all our stuff!
When I started collecting new and more BluRays in 2017 I specifically questioned why I was doing it and what I was going to collect. Then I came up with an answer and so I am a curated collector only collecting what I absolutely want forever. Sometimes I get things I won't want but I seperate them. It's better to grow a loved collection than a bigger collection. And one day you'll have both.
I'm constantly curating my collection due to limited space now. So much so, I'll watch a new Blu-ray and resell it on eBay straight away if I don't think I'll have the urge to watch it again.
As soon as I saw this title, I knew exactly what you were going through as a content creator based on physical movies, doubles, uninterested movies, multiple quality versions etc. I salute you, I've been almost out of room for a while, but I got not a single inch of space for more shelfs in my current room in my share house since I am always thinking of these issues myself as a collector. Lastly, a collector IS someone who curates and shows off a large amount of their interest with pride and passion for what they acquired in their journey to collect. It's been my day zero goal. A hoarder is someone who gathers a large amount of stuff and has little to no connect to most of it but just has it because it belongs with the thing they are hoarding. I truly think getting metaphorical pair of secateurs to this could be what you (and other channels in this sphere) need to maintain a love for the collecting aspect of physical media. but that's my two cents.
Love your channel and love your honesty, thanks for not being dramatic with the thumbnail as you said, I really enjoy physical media and glad to see I’m not alone with my love of DVDs and Blu-ray’s 🎬🎥📀🎞️
I agree, there’s no need to hoard everything. We’re sitting on a Gold Mine and need to let the stuff that we have duplicates of and/or never watch again go.
This is so timely right now. Once things get to start moving out of the collection space to your ..bedroom..kitchen it's time to start prunning the collection. Thanks for the transparency.
I've been re-thinking about my collecting habits for similar reasons. I've stopped blind buying movies for example, because some of the discs I bought ended up being watched once and then just sat on my shelf for ages collecting dust, which is just a waste when I could have probably just watched it on streaming or rented instead and seen that it was something I wouldn't re-watch.
Oh man, right there with you. Recently bought my first house and didnt realize HOW MANY movies i had in my collection. I used to work at a pawn shop that helped grow it but I've had to start trimming the bushes to kind of get a grip on it. Try to stick to what i love forever at the best quality of my preference. Good luck my dude, im sure i will now be browsing ur Ebay store on the regular
I struggled with this for a long time. For me, as much as I hated to, I ditched cases to have more content. I put all my discs in binders. This saves so much space and allows me to organize my discs more efficiently. I miss the case art work but it was something I had to compromise in order to justify my huge collection.
I have mentioned before, at one point, my personal collection topped 15,000 dvd and Bluray films and tv shows. Around 2015 I started to "cull the hurd" down to a realistic collection of my truly favorite films. After seven years i am down to roughly 3,000. Please understand that I never stopped addibg to my collection. It has been a "two steps forward, one step back" process. I have managed to only have one film in two seperate editions. This being the original Highlander... Why this one? I have the two disc DVD edition that included the Queen videos, and special features. I have never found another edition (Bluray) that contains this content. And at a resale valie of only a few dollars, i have easily justified keeping this one. You are head ih bg duwn a long road. Personally, i have a greater appreciation for my collection, as i am thinking through why i have each title. Keep up the good work (i am sure that i will be pursuing your Ebay listings).😎📽
That’s funny. I went digital with my movies, video games, and music so I’d have space for my comic collection. Curation really is paramount for a collection. I always say I’m a comic book reader first and a collector second. I found that when I became more selective with what I read I began to enjoy it even more.
This is what I've been having to do with my anime collection. I used to fall for the huge Rightstuf and Sentai Filmworks sales and it's caused me to run out of room. So now I'm selling stuff I know I'll never watch again, to make room for series I'll rewatch over and over.
100% agree with you. I've always done this with my collection too. I think if I will watch it again or if I just love the property. I do have duplicates of a couple of movies but they're my all time favorites and it's the nostalgic feeling too.
As always, great video Heath!! I live in a condo so I’m limited on space. CDs, Vinyl, 8-Tracks, Blu-Rays and DVDs are all over. I try to be selective with what I buy but that sometimes goes out the window because I hear about something I need to see. The struggle is real!
Selling on eBay can sometimes be a major headache. I'll sell something collectible on eBay, but a majority of things I give away to folks that I know or donate to my local library.
I've been collected for around 20 years. I'm somewhat running out of room, but mostly have a lot of things to try to sell/get rid of. I've saved you as a seller on eBay. That's a thing with being a collector what you're wanting after isn't the same forever or things become more or less important. Especially if you've collected different things for a long time. Enjoyed the video as always!
Yes this exactly where I am. I'm not out of space yet, but my space is limited. I only keep doubles for bonus features, and I always try to just have the best quality copy of a film. Even if I don't have it yet I have sold DVD's if there's a blu or 4k out there. I just add that to my hunt list. My approach has always been to curate. Every purchase I make I think, will I watch this over and over? If the answer is no, then it gets flipped. For me I can take pride that every film in my collection is something I like or have a connection to. I get your approach and totally agree with it.
THIS is why I sort of laugh with my "collector friends" because I--by now!--am super-selective about my collections. I'm looking at, what? Two? New Funko pops and five books for the rest of Q1? One reason being that space is at a premium!
100% agree with this. I collect movies and video games, and often find myself curating the collection. Much like a relationship, our interests and passions change over time. To maintain engagement and rekindle the flame that brought you together, means that sometimes you have to go back to basics and revisit what it is that made it so special for the both of you. While not inherently a living being, it is an entity of your own creation that occupies a space in your life. Hence, a collection is no different and should be treated with kind regard. Best of luck to you!
I put the DVDs into a binder. I pulled the paper inserts out of the case and put them into a box in alphabetical order. I threw the empty case away. I did this only for the standard DVDs not the Blu-rays. Getting rid of the cases gives you a lot of room.
Great show loved the humility I’ve saved you on eBay so will check out what your selling.I’m very particular on how and what I collect,a handful of times I’ve broken my rules,but reign myself back in quickly to recalibrate my thinking.Keep up the great work and love you share to us regarding physical media…
As a collector since around 2013, space has always been my issue! And as I got into the position where I was earning enough to have disposable income for movies, I started to go a little crazy, and now I do need to curate my collection. But it can be difficult with so many amazing releasing coming in recent years.
As true collectors we all eventually hit this wall.. in 20yrs I've purged/curated my DVD collection 3 major times and sold off many many Blu rays I didn't care to revisit to friends&co workers, I've always kept my childhood VHS collection tho, could never part w those even tho I upgraded most if not all.. maintaining a collection of pure memories had always been my endgame as is probably the case w most/many of us.. Great content man, I always enjoy your videos and appreciate your genuine authenticity which is matched by very few on this platform.. excellent 🤙
As someone who's constantly dealing with this problem I feel you. If you want to talk, need advice or something just ask I have a lot to say about this topic. Good luck!
I feel your pain Heath! I think a lot of us are in or near that side of the boat lol. You are a smart guy and I have no doubt that you will take care of this issue in due time. I actually need to get rid of some of my bluray's that I have on 4k now and of course the so called one and done movie's. I have always enjoyed your video's, your knowledge and passion for cinema and for always keeping it real! Good luck with reducing your awesome collection and as always keep up the great work!
If I upgrade a movie or television show on physical media, I will only hold onto a prior release of it if there are any significant extras that did not get ported over to the newer edition. Otherwise, I get rid of the prior edition. This approach has helped me mitigate potential space issues to the point where space still has not become an issue for me. (I use my spare bedroom to keep my CD's and DVD's/bluray's/4K UHD.) I have thought about curating my collection at some point in the near future but am not in a hurry to do that yet as I only buy what interests me & what I like.
Good luck with letting go! It can be tough. I'm doing the same and I have a fraction of your collection. Hopefully you can find a balance. This is gonna sound dorky but just because you let it go doesn't mean it wasn't loved. Thanks for your videos and honesty Heath!
My solution to this was to convert as many of my cases as possible to using DiscSox sleeves. You can store about 2-3 times as many titles in the same space (for typical movies). Each sleeve holds 2 but you can also make it 3 easily (if no bonus content, you could store the DVD, Blu-ray and 4K). It's not great for multi-disc sets (like TV seasons), but it does for most everything else. This way, I can still hoard, but more in the same space. :)
I just went through this myself...many life changes happened so I simply had to sell my action figures collection, movie's (duplicates of many)and CDs (I used to DJ and had many) and give away thing's to Family and other places...needless to say, it is a mindset and I kept only what I really enjoy...
One thing you could definitely let go of would be the “commons” - the stuff you know you could easily buy again (like The Burbs honestly). I’ve done the same with video games. Some are rare and hard to find, especially in great condition - those you definitely want to keep. But the commons and doubles not in the greatest shape... let those go
I am sure "the burbs" is a large enough production run to consider "common", but if it's something you like, getting rid of it doesn't seem like a smart idea. You run the risk of keeping stuff that's rare and not stuff you want. Also, just because it's common, doesn't mean it will always be obtainable. Physical media goes in and out of production all the time causing difficulty in finding and/or incredibly high pricing.
@@robertt9342 Yes, back when DVDs were popular, My father had a movie he liked a lot. Somehow the DVD disc got cracked, and it was out of print. My father got his movie, but We had to go to a store that we almost never used because the prices were too hi.
@@lukeimontv7086 . Yes, and that doesn’t mean you will see it before it is purchased by someone else or that the prices go through the roof. I am just saying you should probably keep what you like and wish to watch again.
Have recently encountered the same issue and stuff is spilling into the rest of the house (which isn't going down overly well with the better half I might add!). But more importantly it's also been causing me much stress. You just can't enjoy the collection when it's so out of hand and lying all over the place and making rooms innacessibke etc. Particularly my office where I'm supposed to be working from home and am instead sitting on the dining room table because the office is full of collectables (not just films either!). My reasons for collecting have been ingrained similarly to your own....started with collectable cards.....then stamps....then comics...magazines. Books..then vinyl and VHS....cds.... Blu Ray etc etc etc etc. Always wanting to make sure I have the whole series of things especially if numbered such as comics and magazines and it took me ages to break the collecting habit of those two things. I also have many copies of things on different formats and I also need to get a bit ruthless with my stuff. I still have stamps..... comics... magazines ....never looked at most of them for. ...Sheesh..... Probably 15-20 years in some cases. Time to sell some of them. So everything is coming out, new shelving is going in to maximise the wall space. Whatever fits fits, and that selection will be ruthlessly curated. Everything else will be sold, given to friends, donated etc. And then I'll feel much better about everything and have a more enjoyable time with my collection and have better vibes in the various rooms of my house but most especially my office. It's been painful and tedious so far as there is so much stuff to pull out but I'll persevere until it's done as I know it will be worth it in the end. Plus as you mentioned I can still enjoy a lot of what I get rid of digitally so I can still enjoy them ... Just in a different way. I don't need everything i currently have in physical format and I feel the situation has finally allowed me to let go and take a stand! It feels liberating actually! PS: I also have the same situation with Doctor Who with the DVDs and Blu-rays 😏. Prudent to mention Doctor Who ... If only we had a TARDIS we WOULD have infinite space and wouldn't need to worry about culling the collection and could keep EVERYTHING!
To facilitate my own OCD, keeping the DVD AND the blu-rays, I bought a bunch of cases that hold 2, 3 or 4 discs and made custom combo packs, then stored away the empty cases. That reduced my shelves by several hundred cases, but now I'm full again. LOL!! What to do?!? :)
I'm in the same situation as you. I'm in a studio apt and almost out of space for dvds and blurays. I'm down to two empty medicine baskets for new dvds and blurays. After this month, moving forward, 2021 will be my last year of collecting random titles and in 2022 will be the beginning of not getting any more movies unless its a must have only. Space is one issue and modern day releases are very hit and miss. It will be my new years resolution for 2022. I have already taken the first step in doing that by not getting any more tv shows on dvd and checking out of the mcu after black widow. On Christmas weekend, it will be my farewell tour. I will be going to the bargain places where I find these movies one last time to see what I can find and then bid them a fond farewell and start my new chapter going forward. Must-have movie time guys in 2022!
Excellent video -- and timely! I've made it my goal for 2022 to slow down on my physical media consumption BIG time. Part of that is to focus on boosting my savings/investments/retirement but also to digest and appreciate the stuff in the collection I either haven't taken a look at or just haven't seen in a while. I think we sometimes lose sight of what we are really passionate about and volume starts to exceed overall enjoyment. I've already been doing yearly curation of the collection to try and keep things under control, but this year I plan on going at it a little more aggressively. Good luck with paring down the collection yourself, and Happy New Year!
My collection isn't anywhere near as expansive as yours in terms of movies and TV shows, but it's still decent sized regardless. I collect movies, TV shows, music (CD and vinyl), video game and movie art books, video games, consoles, figures, statues, etc. Space has been an issue for a while now. In particular, the figures and statues take up a lot of space since most of them are still in their boxes, until I'm able to move into a house. I'm always buying stuff, whether it's from Bedrock City Comics (local comic book store), Sideshow, Best Buy, Walmart, Ebay, Target, Gamestop, Gameover Video Games, etc. Not only that, but the figures and statues that I buy are expensive. There is always something that interests me, whether it's the bigger scale statues, 1/6th scale figures or smaller scale pieces. I'm a fan of Marvel, DC, Star Wars, horror, video games, etc. My collection is definitely varied for sure. There a lot of collectibles that have shot up in price and have become hard to find. However, I will say this. I have gone overboard in terms of buying movies and TV shows. I really need to slow to be honest. That's just in general. Having said that, I can definitely understand where your coming from. It's best to collect the things that you really like and that you are passionate about, instead of buying stuff just for the sake of building a specific collection. You've been a very strong and vocal advocate when it comes to physical media and I really appreciate it. Digital media is convenient and it saves physical space. However, it can never replace something that's tangible and that has actual cash value. You've been at the forefront when it comes to supporting physical media, which is evident in every single video that you make. It means a lot. I have to look at my own collection through a fresh pair of lenses before things really get out of hand, if they haven't done so already. I really appreciate the fact that you made this video because it gives me something to think about, now and in the long run. With that aside, thanks as always Heath for another enjoyable and informative video. Keep up the great work!
As a film and comic book collector, I do know this problem and totally agree that it's important to have a well curated collection. I try to get rid of everything that I have enjoyed, but do not plan on re-watching or writing about it in the future. Fantastic video, just subbed your channel.
A physical collection can grow way too large too quickly,I'm going to reign in blind buying and try to watch more streaming first before deciding to buy something. The streaming platforms seem to range from to from pretty good to appalling with pixellation squares smeared all over the picture, but not many people seem to notice it.
That why when start build my collection, is this worth buying. Examples, mission impossible I want get series on dvd. However, glad waited save up get Blu-ray instead. You idea, look what buying first the long run you have collection you can enjoyed and plus save money.
Yea, if u know u got alot but trying to not be stuck with stuff of no interest then gotta limit what u get anytime. i have stuff i guessing be donated or sold anytime cause lack of interest or not enough xtras so can let go for more space any. and have learned if u get movies too soon may not be alot xtras but if u wait then u can score extras more on the blu ray and maybe 4k if got a player for it .
I only blindly buy movies used from places like a pawn shop. Often times they're cheaper there than it is to rent a movie on Demand. If I end up not liking the movie I'll just donate it to the Goodwill.
Heath, welcome to the club. I have been out of room for the last few years. I have three of four walls covered with DVD/Blu-Ray/4K/Laserdiscs. That plus five bins, each filled with over 200 DVD’s. It’s a disease!!🤪
So I feel your pain! I don’t have a fraction of what you have but room is always and issue. I do have a concern though for your current shelving. You can see the shelves in the background bowing from the weight. I’ve seen shelving like that rip right out of the wall and collapse. Something to think about. May need to revamp everything for space as well as safety. Just a concerned fan.
I have 1 shelf left and 1 open wall for 2 more. After that, I'm in a similar situation. I think the blind buys have to stop for the most part. I have a list of probably 100 movies I've never watched but want to and just haven't gotten to them yet. Instead, it needs to be focused only on movies I'm passionate about and will watch more than once. There are too many on my shelf that are like trophies because they are important movies versus my love for them. I'm still good about mostly curating my collection but once I'm out of space, I'll have to make some tough decisions on what needs to go.
Another good thing about physical media is that you can sell it, lol A couple of years ago i realized that i don't really have time to play, watch and read everything. I limited myself to 30 games (at this point i feel like even 30 is to much), 5 manga authors and 3 anime franchises on top of that (if i didn't forgot anything).
I definitely get where you’re coming from. While my collection is nowhere near the size of yours, I decided to slow down and really just focus on the things I actually like rather than continuing to grow it. I also decided to go all digital for my gaming systems which helped to clear up space for movies. Good luck with the changes!
Earlier this year, I built a shelving unit like the ones behind you (I followed your tutorial) for my video games, VHS tapes, DVDs, Blu-rays, and 4K Blu-rays. I also have shelves for my books, CDs, and cassette tapes. And I am almost at maximum capacity. I want to add more shelves, but like you said, nobody has infinite space, and I only have half a basement to work with. My current strategy is to run a deficit: I watch/read/listen to what I already own more than I add things to the collection. I've been terrible at following this, though. I hope I find a bigger living space before I run out of things I want, LOL.
I had shelves built that I have not filled yet and I put all my tv on dvd into boxes as I have moved those to Plex. But I am cutting back forcing my self only to but what I absolutely want
Here's how I manage my disc library. Single DVD titles (1000ish) are alphabetized on spindles. About 500 DVDs were "upgraded" to HD or 4K thanks to $4.99 or other sales on iTunes. The Blu-ray singles are also alphabetical in CD jewel cases so fit on CD shelves. Some DVD box sets are on shelves in the bedroom closet. Special Blu-rays and the handful of 4K titles are on 1 DVD/BD rack that has plenty of room for growth.
I came up with a compromise in my collection, where what I determine are absolute essential titles are on physical media, but for the vast majority of my library, it is streaming that is undeniably convenient to access and saving that all-important space. I am a condo-dweller and this is critical. Also there's the incentive to keep blu-rays that have a good number of special features that streaming cannot provide. It is for this same reason that I have largely gone digital for my music especially. The physical CDs are not in those detested jewel cases, but rather in vinyl sleeves, where I have given consideration to doing the same for my physical media movie collection. I do recognize that there can be a fine line between collecting and hoarding, of which I am likely somewhere in that gray area.
I’ve always made a point of pulling old editions out of my collection immediately upon upgrading with few exceptions, I keep all my Star Wars stuff going back to VHS and I’ve kept the Back To The Future Flux Capacitor Blu-Ray set after I upgraded to 4K but that’s about it, Everything else gets pulled out and I also don’t buy duplicates IE: Standard 4K, Steel book 4K/…Exclusive ect. I buy one copy and one copy only and I still run out of room.
The Chaplin sets you have behind you are a good case in point. Loads of special features that have never appeared on other releases I'm based in the UK and have sold titles through Facebook movie groups. I price at just above CEX voucher price. I did list some items on eBay but after fees (especially as they charge fees on the price including postage), I felt like I didn't receive much money for the items It is a big job especially when you price everything individually
Anytime we are ready to do a purge, we usually donate to our local library. I also don’t have the patience you have to put it on eBay. We are discussing selling some to a Vintage Stock a couple of hours away from us. Cheers.
I sympathize. When I upgrade a movie if the old copy doesn’t have different feautures (with very few exceptions I want to be able to watch in multiple rooms) or a different cut, I trash it if it’s VHS (nobody around here wants those) and put it in a bag (if it’s DVD or BD) to trade at FYE (I’ve never sold online). In have managed to keep my strict alphabetical order, but the DVD section is really out of space.
Due to a broken pipe and water damage I had to move on short notice from an apartment that I had lived in for over 20 years. I do not have much furniture but I did have over 600 books and over 500 BD/DVD. Having to move all that media was so burdensome that it is something I never want to experience again. I looked at my Kindle and thought how much easier my life would be if all my books were on that device. Having to pack up and move all that stuff over 40 boxes has cured me of my need to buy more physical media whether books or movies. I estimate I have gotten rid of 100 books and perhaps 50 DVDs. I also removed some of my older DVDs from their cases and put them in a folio. I am working on having a small collection of my favorite books and movies in physical form. With the rest on digital.
I’m pretty sure this is something I commented on one of your videos several years ago and while it wasn’t you who made a snarky remark, I remember some random person acting like hoarding was a virtue. Curation and keeping what you will actually watch has always been way more important to me than accumulating stuff. I’m a big fan of always having a continual way to get rid of stuff that dosnt make the cut. Selling stuff has also become one of my biggest hobbies and a way to fund the things you want to keep.
I know we're friends, but I'm going to say this as if we weren't. As if we were just acquaintances passing by in the night (or day, whatever) -- one thing I've noticed with your channel over the past two years or so is how open and honest you are with your audience. You don't do things for clicks, you don't do the whole clickbait thing, you don't stir up unneeded (or unwanted) controversy, you don't encourage arguing or aggressive arguments. Saying all that, you also don't shy away from debating hot button topics, but you do it in the most dignified, open and respectful way possible. You include EVERYONE and welcome input from every single person watching your videos. I admire that about you (and I'm sure a lot of other people feel the same way). I love how you said that digital is not the enemy in this video. God knows I love film and collecting, but because I have a minimalist mindset, I try to keep my physical media collection as small and curated as possible. A large majority of my film collection is digital and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. So often I hear people saying how lame that is .. why? I'm still a movie lover. Having a digital collection doesn't make me any less of a fan, does it?
Thanks, Vanessa. Since we are friends, I'll say "cheers for that, Veebers!" Having a digital collection absolutely does not make anyone less of a fan! I think some of the "physical media or nothing" crowd would be shocked to learn how many of the people who actually make and sell this stuff have embraced digital. J.R. Bookwalter himself said in the recent Makeflix creator roundtable that I hosted that his digital collection far outnumbers his physical collection. We all have to do what works best for us, and we all have to answer those tough questions, eventually.
I`ve been simultaneously streamlining and adding to my collection. There`s a few small bits I want to fill in in my Comedy and Drama, TV Series and Animation collections but they are nearly done. My Action collection is pretty much done now, all I can see happening there is maybe a few upgrades from DVD to Blu-ray on some titles. Now the plan is to take a breather and then the next phase is to fill in the gaps in my Cult/ Classics and Music on DVD/ Blu-Ray collections. It's been a great time to get the last few bits of the Comedy and Drama collections, the prices have been so reasonable.
I’m totally there with you. I’ve collected lots of DVDs I hardly ever watch what I have. I’ve been collecting since the early 90s and have an overflow of movies and TV shows. Not to say that I’m not going to watch them 🙂
Switched to case logic binders years ago. Was VERY hard to get rid of cases and artwork as i used to create and print custom artwork. But i was finally able to breath again lol
I feel the compulsive need to GET EVERYTHING a lot. Especially when I see other collections that dwarf mine. I see, well, collections like yours and lonely think "man, why can't that be me?" But when I step back into reality I don't want that to be me, lol. I just want to collect and curate only what I truly want and love. I've culled the collection a few times. After getting rid of stuff I always feel a pang of regret. But then I tell myself (you don't ever watch that stuff and only kinda like it, so why keep it?" If it's something popular and widely available that I like well enough but don't LOVE? I'll let it go because it's either available on a streamer I'm already subbed to or I can pick it up again cheap if I want to. My collection might not be as impressively massive as others, but it's mine. 😀
I really enjoy your channel, Heath. Im glad you're around, it's a good vibe with your channel. Im into nearly everything you are into, sans the Westerns and im not (yet) a big fan of films older than 1977... But I completely dig the channel, so please keep it up. 🤘
The VHS copies are more likely to be uncensored or the original unaltered movies compared to DVD's and Blurays need to to be kept unless the DVD's haven't been altered.
Ha, all my CD's, DVD's and Blu-ray's are all in binders. And you're probably all cringing saying, "he's not a real collector." But I've also got over 6,000 vinyl records. I'm all 4K now when it comes to movies. My 4K UHD's and Criterion's are the only ones that are staying in their original packaging. Binders are awesome to flip through to pick out a movie. I'm very happy with them.
Reminds me of my one grandmother & her VHS collection, when I was a kid. Lady had a two bedroom, single story condo with no basement. I'd walk into her living room & every available spot se could put a shelf all the way around the room had one filled with VHS tapes. Then, in her bedroom, she had more stacked all along the long wall about knee high. I don't have any VHS, but thank God mine isn't that bad. I like to joke that that I'm somewhere between impressive for one person & pathetic for a public library.
I've got around 400 titles I also have steelbooks of and no longer need the amaray release. I've sold quite a few, but I have loads left of that pile to sell. I always get rid of DVDs when I upgrade them, unless I keep them for special features
My collection isn't that huge. But I definitely filled a wall full of Bluray and Dvds 📀...No doubles unless for a special reason. Like signed copies. I spent from 8pm till 5am last night just reorganizing my collection. I couldn't believe how long it took me. And I noticed there's gonna be a point that I have to cut back. Only get things I really want badly. I also noticed I got rid of a few things in the past I regretted. So just be careful what you sell. Stay Awesome!!!
One way to help with this problem is to become more selective about what you purchase. Try your best to only buy things that you really love and want to have forever. There was a point where I made a bunch of blind purchases. For the most part I no longer do that. Of course there are a few exceptions. But now I mostly only buy what I have already seen and know I like.
In my estimation just go out and get some 1x6s make some shelves and just put them inside the same room space them away from the wall just like a library do
I can totally relate to this! I recently started doing this with some collectible action figures. I genuinely like most of what I have, but I have so much of it that a lot of it is stored in boxes or plastic bins. If I can't display it, what good is it doing me? So I started prioritizing and selling off some stuff (made some decent money so far since some of it went up in value since the time I originally bought it). I plan to do that to some extent with my DVD/Blu-Ray/4K collection.... purging stuff that is either completely redundant or that I just don't want/need anymore, and sell it. For instance, I recently got the Smallville complete series Blu-Ray set, so I'll probably get rid of exist DVDs and Blu-Rays (I already had the first half of the series on DVD and the rest on Blu-Ray individually). Something that I started doing some time ago, but that I really need to do even more, is make my own combo packs if I want to hang onto an older edition (i.e. a DVD that has special features that didn't carry over to a Blu-Ray release). For example, if the Blu-Ray is 1 disc, then I'll get a 2-disc case, and move the artwork, etc. over to it, and and put both the Blu-Ray and older DVD in there, and have one case on the shelf. Something else that I want to do is move some things into more efficient packaging. Particularly a lot of TV seasons and the like that came in those huge fold-out digi-packs and other packaging that is oversized for which there are more efficient options these days (it is easy enough to get a 6-disc DVD case that is the same size as a standard 1-disc case). I will just move a bunch of that stuff over to standard size cases and (whether photoshopping it myself or downloading it from a custom cover site), print up the artwork to slide into the sleeve. There are some releases for which I do love the look of the original packaging even if it is oversized... for a select portion, I'll keep them in that original packaging. But where I can save some space, I will. Obviously this comes with the arguable hassle of having to buy more cases, ink, photo paper, etc. to do this... and then unloading just some cases might be tough unless its something out of print where even the packaging might go for something... but it's an option of keeping the on-disc content while saving space is the main priority. One idea that I've recently been toying with, but I'm REALLY debating on it (because even a year ago I would have considered it to be "physical media blasphemy") would be not only to swap out cases as described above, but instead of traditionally sized DVD or Blu-Ray cases, to put them into those CD-sized poly cases (which are made of sturdier plastic than traditional jewel cases). Part of me hates the idea of putting them in a completely different style of case. BUT from a space perspective, not only would I save on width by putting the aforementioned TV seasons in this sort of case, but they 'd also be shorter, allowing a lot more to fit on a single shelving unit. And this could be done with movies as well to save space. I fully understand if some find the idea of combining discs from different editions, swapping out packaging at all, etc. to be something that they wouldn't want to do if they want to keep their collection 100% in it's original state. But again, if space is becoming an issue, and keeping the on-disc content is the main priority, and sacrificing the original packaging in some manner is not a deal breaker, it is a way to keep stuff.
Some times film fans forget why we buy, eventually we start buying for the sake of buying b/c shopping is fun. I only buy a film if after the 1st view weeks later i still think about the film otherwise letting time go by, if you forget it then it didn't mean much. Good idea, getting rid of your older formats (HV/DVD versions) that alone will reduce your collection a lot & make a buyer on eBay happy.
Use these links to get involved!
Ebay.com/usr/cerealatmidnight
Patreon.com/CerealAtMidnight
CerealAtMidnight.com
Facebook/CerealMidnight
Twitter: CerealMidnight
Instagram: CerealMidnight
Letterboxd: CerealAtMidnite
Shop: CerealAtMidnight.Threadless.com
I figured you had to hit that wall soon. I've been spending a lot of time lately cutting down bulk in my collection, especially from thrift stores. DVDs in flimsy cases with dull cover art are going into binders. I cut out the the back if there's pertinent info. I reuse the good cases but most are sent to Recycling. So many of these DVDs and blurays have zero resale value after fees and shipping. In some cases I am combining lots but they usually move slowly. But it costs the same to ship a pound of DVDs via Media Mail as it does one so big money saver.
It's refreshing to find a channel that doesn't have a cut after every sentence you say. You seem prepared, concise and genuine. I like it :D
I'm more of a book collector with all kinds of special editions, etc. But I have also built up my physical media collection during the pandemic and have learned a great deal from sites such as this one.
Whatever it is you're collecting, I think the shift to curating is largely a mental one. You might look at your titles and think they all have some meaning to you. But once you have curated your collection, you discover you weren't really as attached to some of them as you may have thought.
Indeed, once you start curating, I think you'll find you value your collection more. That's because you are narrowing the collection down to the titles that truly are meaningful to you (in whatever ways you define that).
I feel this! I have definitely started to think about my collection in a different way as it grows. But the collector and archivist in me wants to keep them all. But I definitely have been dropping the older formats as I upgrade.
Jeff, we should combine forces and go in on a warehouse space like those kids on Tik Tok who have huge creative spaces. but it could just be to store all our stuff!
When I started collecting new and more BluRays in 2017 I specifically questioned why I was doing it and what I was going to collect. Then I came up with an answer and so I am a curated collector only collecting what I absolutely want forever. Sometimes I get things I won't want but I seperate them. It's better to grow a loved collection than a bigger collection. And one day you'll have both.
I'm constantly curating my collection due to limited space now. So much so, I'll watch a new Blu-ray and resell it on eBay straight away if I don't think I'll have the urge to watch it again.
I just watched this for the manyieth time. I keep coming back to it.
As soon as I saw this title, I knew exactly what you were going through as a content creator based on physical movies, doubles, uninterested movies, multiple quality versions etc.
I salute you, I've been almost out of room for a while, but I got not a single inch of space for more shelfs in my current room in my share house since I am always thinking of these issues myself as a collector.
Lastly, a collector IS someone who curates and shows off a large amount of their interest with pride and passion for what they acquired in their journey to collect. It's been my day zero goal.
A hoarder is someone who gathers a large amount of stuff and has little to no connect to most of it but just has it because it belongs with the thing they are hoarding.
I truly think getting metaphorical pair of secateurs to this could be what you (and other channels in this sphere) need to maintain a love for the collecting aspect of physical media.
but that's my two cents.
Love your channel and love your honesty, thanks for not being dramatic with the thumbnail as you said, I really enjoy physical media and glad to see I’m not alone with my love of DVDs and Blu-ray’s 🎬🎥📀🎞️
I gave up trying to sell on Ebay. It was more trouble than it was worth. Most of the time I give them to friends or charity.
Same here.
I agree, there’s no need to hoard everything. We’re sitting on a Gold Mine and need to let the stuff that we have duplicates of and/or never watch again go.
This is so timely right now. Once things get to start moving out of the collection space to your ..bedroom..kitchen it's time to start prunning the collection.
Thanks for the transparency.
I've been re-thinking about my collecting habits for similar reasons. I've stopped blind buying movies for example, because some of the discs I bought ended up being watched once and then just sat on my shelf for ages collecting dust, which is just a waste when I could have probably just watched it on streaming or rented instead and seen that it was something I wouldn't re-watch.
Oh man, right there with you. Recently bought my first house and didnt realize HOW MANY movies i had in my collection. I used to work at a pawn shop that helped grow it but I've had to start trimming the bushes to kind of get a grip on it. Try to stick to what i love forever at the best quality of my preference. Good luck my dude, im sure i will now be browsing ur Ebay store on the regular
I struggled with this for a long time. For me, as much as I hated to, I ditched cases to have more content. I put all my discs in binders. This saves so much space and allows me to organize my discs more efficiently. I miss the case art work but it was something I had to compromise in order to justify my huge collection.
As I upgrade I always make my own combo packs. Saves so much space.
I have mentioned before, at one point, my personal collection topped 15,000 dvd and Bluray films and tv shows. Around 2015 I started to "cull the hurd" down to a realistic collection of my truly favorite films. After seven years i am down to roughly 3,000. Please understand that I never stopped addibg to my collection. It has been a "two steps forward, one step back" process. I have managed to only have one film in two seperate editions. This being the original Highlander... Why this one? I have the two disc DVD edition that included the Queen videos, and special features. I have never found another edition (Bluray) that contains this content. And at a resale valie of only a few dollars, i have easily justified keeping this one.
You are head ih bg duwn a long road. Personally, i have a greater appreciation for my collection, as i am thinking through why i have each title.
Keep up the good work (i am sure that i will be pursuing your Ebay listings).😎📽
I've been doing the same thing. It's tough deciding what to let go, but it's a freeing feeling once you do.
I turn everything into combo packs as I upgrade. Saves tons of room immediately.
That’s funny. I went digital with my movies, video games, and music so I’d have space for my comic collection. Curation really is paramount for a collection. I always say I’m a comic book reader first and a collector second. I found that when I became more selective with what I read I began to enjoy it even more.
This is what I've been having to do with my anime collection. I used to fall for the huge Rightstuf and Sentai Filmworks sales and it's caused me to run out of room. So now I'm selling stuff I know I'll never watch again, to make room for series I'll rewatch over and over.
100% agree with you. I've always done this with my collection too. I think if I will watch it again or if I just love the property. I do have duplicates of a couple of movies but they're my all time favorites and it's the nostalgic feeling too.
I need to start curating my collection too. Thank you for bringing it up Heath.
As always, great video Heath!! I live in a condo so I’m limited on space. CDs, Vinyl, 8-Tracks, Blu-Rays and DVDs are all over. I try to be selective with what I buy but that sometimes goes out the window because I hear about something I need to see. The struggle is real!
Librarians call it weeding the collection. It is very important to keep your sanity. Letting go is hard, selling on ebay is harder.
Selling on eBay can sometimes be a major headache. I'll sell something collectible on eBay, but a majority of things I give away to folks that I know or donate to my local library.
I've been collected for around 20 years. I'm somewhat running out of room, but mostly have a lot of things to try to sell/get rid of. I've saved you as a seller on eBay. That's a thing with being a collector what you're wanting after isn't the same forever or things become more or less important. Especially if you've collected different things for a long time. Enjoyed the video as always!
Yes this exactly where I am. I'm not out of space yet, but my space is limited. I only keep doubles for bonus features, and I always try to just have the best quality copy of a film. Even if I don't have it yet I have sold DVD's if there's a blu or 4k out there. I just add that to my hunt list. My approach has always been to curate. Every purchase I make I think, will I watch this over and over? If the answer is no, then it gets flipped. For me I can take pride that every film in my collection is something I like or have a connection to. I get your approach and totally agree with it.
THIS is why I sort of laugh with my "collector friends" because I--by now!--am super-selective about my collections. I'm looking at, what? Two? New Funko pops and five books for the rest of Q1? One reason being that space is at a premium!
100% agree with this. I collect movies and video games, and often find myself curating the collection. Much like a relationship, our interests and passions change over time. To maintain engagement and rekindle the flame that brought you together, means that sometimes you have to go back to basics and revisit what it is that made it so special for the both of you. While not inherently a living being, it is an entity of your own creation that occupies a space in your life. Hence, a collection is no different and should be treated with kind regard.
Best of luck to you!
What a way to wake up this morning! I use eBay weekly so I’ll definitely dive in!! If I can support I most definitely will!
Sweet X-men 268 shirt. Jim Lee rules! 🤘😎
I put the DVDs into a binder. I pulled the paper inserts out of the case and put them into a box in alphabetical order. I threw the empty case away. I did this only for the standard DVDs not the Blu-rays. Getting rid of the cases gives you a lot of room.
Great show loved the humility I’ve saved you on eBay so will check out what your selling.I’m very particular on how and what I collect,a handful of times I’ve broken my rules,but reign myself back in quickly to recalibrate my thinking.Keep up the great work and love you share to us regarding physical media…
As a collector since around 2013, space has always been my issue! And as I got into the position where I was earning enough to have disposable income for movies, I started to go a little crazy, and now I do need to curate my collection. But it can be difficult with so many amazing releasing coming in recent years.
Hi Heath! Congrats to you on chasing your dreams! Its awesome!!!
As true collectors we all eventually hit this wall.. in 20yrs I've purged/curated my DVD collection 3 major times and sold off many many Blu rays I didn't care to revisit to friends&co workers, I've always kept my childhood VHS collection tho, could never part w those even tho I upgraded most if not all.. maintaining a collection of pure memories had always been my endgame as is probably the case w most/many of us.. Great content man, I always enjoy your videos and appreciate your genuine authenticity which is matched by very few on this platform.. excellent 🤙
Keep your Favorits and those you really like in your collection that's all you really need 😉👍Physical Media4Life
As someone who's constantly dealing with this problem I feel you. If you want to talk, need advice or something just ask I have a lot to say about this topic. Good luck!
I feel your pain Heath! I think a lot of us are in or near that side of the boat lol. You are a smart guy and I have no doubt that you will take care of this issue in due time. I actually need to get rid of some of my bluray's that I have on 4k now and of course the so called one and done movie's. I have always enjoyed your video's, your knowledge and passion for cinema and for always keeping it real! Good luck with reducing your awesome collection and as always keep up the great work!
If I upgrade a movie or television show on physical media, I will only hold onto a prior release of it if there are any significant extras that did not get ported over to the newer edition. Otherwise, I get rid of the prior edition. This approach has helped me mitigate potential space issues to the point where space still has not become an issue for me. (I use my spare bedroom to keep my CD's and DVD's/bluray's/4K UHD.) I have thought about curating my collection at some point in the near future but am not in a hurry to do that yet as I only buy what interests me & what I like.
You need to find a cheap warehouse and build a new set around the collection.
Good luck with letting go! It can be tough. I'm doing the same and I have a fraction of your collection. Hopefully you can find a balance. This is gonna sound dorky but just because you let it go doesn't mean it wasn't loved. Thanks for your videos and honesty Heath!
My solution to this was to convert as many of my cases as possible to using DiscSox sleeves. You can store about 2-3 times as many titles in the same space (for typical movies). Each sleeve holds 2 but you can also make it 3 easily (if no bonus content, you could store the DVD, Blu-ray and 4K). It's not great for multi-disc sets (like TV seasons), but it does for most everything else. This way, I can still hoard, but more in the same space. :)
I just went through this myself...many life changes happened so I simply had to sell my action figures
collection, movie's (duplicates of many)and CDs (I used to DJ and had many) and give away thing's to Family and other places...needless to say, it is a mindset and I kept only what I really enjoy...
One thing you could definitely let go of would be the “commons” - the stuff you know you could easily buy again (like The Burbs honestly). I’ve done the same with video games. Some are rare and hard to find, especially in great condition - those you definitely want to keep. But the commons and doubles not in the greatest shape... let those go
I am sure "the burbs" is a large enough production run to consider "common", but if it's something you like, getting rid of it doesn't seem like a smart idea. You run the risk of keeping stuff that's rare and not stuff you want.
Also, just because it's common, doesn't mean it will always be obtainable. Physical media goes in and out of production all the time causing difficulty in finding and/or incredibly high pricing.
@@robertt9342 Do you not have any secondhand shops around you?
@@robertt9342 Yes, back when DVDs were popular, My father had a movie he liked a lot. Somehow the DVD disc got cracked, and it was out of print. My father got his movie, but We had to go to a store that we almost never used because the prices were too hi.
@@lukeimontv7086 . Yes, and that doesn’t mean you will see it before it is purchased by someone else or that the prices go through the roof.
I am just saying you should probably keep what you like and wish to watch again.
The burbs was one of the worst film's I've seen
Have recently encountered the same issue and stuff is spilling into the rest of the house (which isn't going down overly well with the better half I might add!). But more importantly it's also been causing me much stress. You just can't enjoy the collection when it's so out of hand and lying all over the place and making rooms innacessibke etc. Particularly my office where I'm supposed to be working from home and am instead sitting on the dining room table because the office is full of collectables (not just films either!). My reasons for collecting have been ingrained similarly to your own....started with collectable cards.....then stamps....then comics...magazines. Books..then vinyl and VHS....cds.... Blu Ray etc etc etc etc. Always wanting to make sure I have the whole series of things especially if numbered such as comics and magazines and it took me ages to break the collecting habit of those two things.
I also have many copies of things on different formats and I also need to get a bit ruthless with my stuff. I still have stamps..... comics... magazines ....never looked at most of them for. ...Sheesh..... Probably 15-20 years in some cases. Time to sell some of them.
So everything is coming out, new shelving is going in to maximise the wall space. Whatever fits fits, and that selection will be ruthlessly curated. Everything else will be sold, given to friends, donated etc. And then I'll feel much better about everything and have a more enjoyable time with my collection and have better vibes in the various rooms of my house but most especially my office. It's been painful and tedious so far as there is so much stuff to pull out but I'll persevere until it's done as I know it will be worth it in the end. Plus as you mentioned I can still enjoy a lot of what I get rid of digitally so I can still enjoy them ... Just in a different way. I don't need everything i currently have in physical format and I feel the situation has finally allowed me to let go and take a stand! It feels liberating actually!
PS: I also have the same situation with Doctor Who with the DVDs and Blu-rays 😏. Prudent to mention Doctor Who ... If only we had a TARDIS we WOULD have infinite space and wouldn't need to worry about culling the collection and could keep EVERYTHING!
To facilitate my own OCD, keeping the DVD AND the blu-rays, I bought a bunch of cases that hold 2, 3 or 4 discs and made custom combo packs, then stored away the empty cases. That reduced my shelves by several hundred cases, but now I'm full again. LOL!! What to do?!? :)
I'm in the same situation as you. I'm in a studio apt and almost out of space for dvds and blurays. I'm down to two empty medicine baskets for new dvds and blurays. After this month, moving forward, 2021 will be my last year of collecting random titles and in 2022 will be the beginning of not getting any more movies unless its a must have only. Space is one issue and modern day releases are very hit and miss. It will be my new years resolution for 2022. I have already taken the first step in doing that by not getting any more tv shows on dvd and checking out of the mcu after black widow. On Christmas weekend, it will be my farewell tour. I will be going to the bargain places where I find these movies one last time to see what I can find and then bid them a fond farewell and start my new chapter going forward. Must-have movie time guys in 2022!
Excellent video -- and timely! I've made it my goal for 2022 to slow down on my physical media consumption BIG time. Part of that is to focus on boosting my savings/investments/retirement but also to digest and appreciate the stuff in the collection I either haven't taken a look at or just haven't seen in a while. I think we sometimes lose sight of what we are really passionate about and volume starts to exceed overall enjoyment. I've already been doing yearly curation of the collection to try and keep things under control, but this year I plan on going at it a little more aggressively. Good luck with paring down the collection yourself, and Happy New Year!
My collection isn't anywhere near as expansive as yours in terms of movies and TV shows, but it's still decent sized regardless. I collect movies, TV shows, music (CD and vinyl), video game and movie art books, video games, consoles, figures, statues, etc. Space has been an issue for a while now. In particular, the figures and statues take up a lot of space since most of them are still in their boxes, until I'm able to move into a house. I'm always buying stuff, whether it's from Bedrock City Comics (local comic book store), Sideshow, Best Buy, Walmart, Ebay, Target, Gamestop, Gameover Video Games, etc. Not only that, but the figures and statues that I buy are expensive. There is always something that interests me, whether it's the bigger scale statues, 1/6th scale figures or smaller scale pieces. I'm a fan of Marvel, DC, Star Wars, horror, video games, etc. My collection is definitely varied for sure. There a lot of collectibles that have shot up in price and have become hard to find. However, I will say this. I have gone overboard in terms of buying movies and TV shows. I really need to slow to be honest. That's just in general. Having said that, I can definitely understand where your coming from. It's best to collect the things that you really like and that you are passionate about, instead of buying stuff just for the sake of building a specific collection. You've been a very strong and vocal advocate when it comes to physical media and I really appreciate it. Digital media is convenient and it saves physical space. However, it can never replace something that's tangible and that has actual cash value. You've been at the forefront when it comes to supporting physical media, which is evident in every single video that you make. It means a lot. I have to look at my own collection through a fresh pair of lenses before things really get out of hand, if they haven't done so already. I really appreciate the fact that you made this video because it gives me something to think about, now and in the long run. With that aside, thanks as always Heath for another enjoyable and informative video. Keep up the great work!
As a film and comic book collector, I do know this problem and totally agree that it's important to have a well curated collection. I try to get rid of everything that I have enjoyed, but do not plan on re-watching or writing about it in the future. Fantastic video, just subbed your channel.
A physical collection can grow way too large too quickly,I'm going to reign in blind buying and try to watch more streaming first before deciding to buy something. The streaming platforms seem to range from to from pretty good to appalling with pixellation squares smeared all over the picture, but not many people seem to notice it.
That why when start build my collection, is this worth buying. Examples, mission impossible I want get series on dvd. However, glad waited save up get Blu-ray instead. You idea, look what buying first the long run you have collection you can enjoyed and plus save money.
Yea, if u know u got alot but trying to not be stuck with stuff of no interest then gotta limit what u get anytime. i have stuff i guessing be donated or sold anytime cause lack of interest or not enough xtras so can let go for more space any. and have learned if u get movies too soon may not be alot xtras but if u wait then u can score extras more on the blu ray and maybe 4k if got a player for it .
I only blindly buy movies used from places like a pawn shop. Often times they're cheaper there than it is to rent a movie on Demand. If I end up not liking the movie I'll just donate it to the Goodwill.
Heath: It hasn't reached the kitchen yet.
Me: Forget your vegetables and home cooking kids we're eating out and the kitchen is now a den. 🤣
Heath, welcome to the club. I have been out of room for the last few years. I have three of four walls covered with DVD/Blu-Ray/4K/Laserdiscs. That plus five bins, each filled with over 200 DVD’s. It’s a disease!!🤪
So I feel your pain! I don’t have a fraction of what you have but room is always and issue.
I do have a concern though for your current shelving. You can see the shelves in the background bowing from the weight. I’ve seen shelving like that rip right out of the wall and collapse. Something to think about. May need to revamp everything for space as well as safety. Just a concerned fan.
Hi my name is Damian from Australia, I have enjoy your channel,as a collector of Physical media I total agree with you, in your video.
I have 1 shelf left and 1 open wall for 2 more. After that, I'm in a similar situation. I think the blind buys have to stop for the most part. I have a list of probably 100 movies I've never watched but want to and just haven't gotten to them yet. Instead, it needs to be focused only on movies I'm passionate about and will watch more than once. There are too many on my shelf that are like trophies because they are important movies versus my love for them. I'm still good about mostly curating my collection but once I'm out of space, I'll have to make some tough decisions on what needs to go.
The things you own end up owning you .
Truth.
Yep, I'm in the same boat. Gotta purge and keep what really matters to me.
Your C-3PO impression is pure gold!
Another good thing about physical media is that you can sell it, lol
A couple of years ago i realized that i don't really have time to play, watch and read everything. I limited myself to 30 games (at this point i feel like even 30 is to much), 5 manga authors and 3 anime franchises on top of that (if i didn't forgot anything).
I definitely get where you’re coming from. While my collection is nowhere near the size of yours, I decided to slow down and really just focus on the things I actually like rather than continuing to grow it. I also decided to go all digital for my gaming systems which helped to clear up space for movies. Good luck with the changes!
Earlier this year, I built a shelving unit like the ones behind you (I followed your tutorial) for my video games, VHS tapes, DVDs, Blu-rays, and 4K Blu-rays. I also have shelves for my books, CDs, and cassette tapes. And I am almost at maximum capacity. I want to add more shelves, but like you said, nobody has infinite space, and I only have half a basement to work with. My current strategy is to run a deficit: I watch/read/listen to what I already own more than I add things to the collection. I've been terrible at following this, though. I hope I find a bigger living space before I run out of things I want, LOL.
Just keep the movies you know you'll definitely watch again. I taught my self that years ago.
I had shelves built that I have not filled yet and I put all my tv on dvd into boxes as I have moved those to Plex. But I am cutting back forcing my self only to but what I absolutely want
Here's how I manage my disc library. Single DVD titles (1000ish) are alphabetized on spindles. About 500 DVDs were "upgraded" to HD or 4K thanks to $4.99 or other sales on iTunes. The Blu-ray singles are also alphabetical in CD jewel cases so fit on CD shelves. Some DVD box sets are on shelves in the bedroom closet. Special Blu-rays and the handful of 4K titles are on 1 DVD/BD rack that has plenty of room for growth.
Sometimes we need to let go of things for the best
I came up with a compromise in my collection, where what I determine are absolute essential titles are on physical media, but for the vast majority of my library, it is streaming that is undeniably convenient to access and saving that all-important space. I am a condo-dweller and this is critical. Also there's the incentive to keep blu-rays that have a good number of special features that streaming cannot provide. It is for this same reason that I have largely gone digital for my music especially. The physical CDs are not in those detested jewel cases, but rather in vinyl sleeves, where I have given consideration to doing the same for my physical media movie collection. I do recognize that there can be a fine line between collecting and hoarding, of which I am likely somewhere in that gray area.
I’ve always made a point of pulling old editions out of my collection immediately upon upgrading with few exceptions, I keep all my Star Wars stuff going back to VHS and I’ve kept the Back To The Future Flux Capacitor Blu-Ray set after I upgraded to 4K but that’s about it, Everything else gets pulled out and I also don’t buy duplicates IE: Standard 4K, Steel book 4K/…Exclusive ect. I buy one copy and one copy only and I still run out of room.
The Chaplin sets you have behind you are a good case in point. Loads of special features that have never appeared on other releases
I'm based in the UK and have sold titles through Facebook movie groups. I price at just above CEX voucher price. I did list some items on eBay but after fees (especially as they charge fees on the price including postage), I felt like I didn't receive much money for the items
It is a big job especially when you price everything individually
Anytime we are ready to do a purge, we usually donate to our local library. I also don’t have the patience you have to put it on eBay. We are discussing selling some to a Vintage Stock a couple of hours away from us. Cheers.
I sympathize. When I upgrade a movie if the old copy doesn’t have different feautures (with very few exceptions I want to be able to watch in multiple rooms) or a different cut, I trash it if it’s VHS (nobody around here wants those) and put it in a bag (if it’s DVD or BD) to trade at FYE (I’ve never sold online). In have managed to keep my strict alphabetical order, but the DVD section is really out of space.
Going through all your vids, so much good stuff. Keep it going.
Due to a broken pipe and water damage I had to move on short notice from an apartment that I had lived in for over 20 years. I do not have much furniture but I did have over 600 books and over 500 BD/DVD. Having to move all that media was so burdensome that it is something I never want to experience again. I looked at my Kindle and thought how much easier my life would be if all my books were on that device. Having to pack up and move all that stuff over 40 boxes has cured me of my need to buy more physical media whether books or movies. I estimate I have gotten rid of 100 books and perhaps 50 DVDs. I also removed some of my older DVDs from their cases and put them in a folio. I am working on having a small collection of my favorite books and movies in physical form. With the rest on digital.
I’m pretty sure this is something I commented on one of your videos several years ago and while it wasn’t you who made a snarky remark, I remember some random person acting like hoarding was a virtue.
Curation and keeping what you will actually watch has always been way more important to me than accumulating stuff. I’m a big fan of always having a continual way to get rid of stuff that dosnt make the cut. Selling stuff has also become one of my biggest hobbies and a way to fund the things you want to keep.
the tee is awesome...one of my all time fave issues... Jim Lee doing what he does best and his Black Widow Rocks!!!
I understand this so much! I am approaching this point myself.
Stay tuned, I've got a follow up video hitting in a few days. I've found a pretty great hack.
I know we're friends, but I'm going to say this as if we weren't. As if we were just acquaintances passing by in the night (or day, whatever) -- one thing I've noticed with your channel over the past two years or so is how open and honest you are with your audience. You don't do things for clicks, you don't do the whole clickbait thing, you don't stir up unneeded (or unwanted) controversy, you don't encourage arguing or aggressive arguments. Saying all that, you also don't shy away from debating hot button topics, but you do it in the most dignified, open and respectful way possible. You include EVERYONE and welcome input from every single person watching your videos. I admire that about you (and I'm sure a lot of other people feel the same way).
I love how you said that digital is not the enemy in this video. God knows I love film and collecting, but because I have a minimalist mindset, I try to keep my physical media collection as small and curated as possible. A large majority of my film collection is digital and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. So often I hear people saying how lame that is .. why? I'm still a movie lover. Having a digital collection doesn't make me any less of a fan, does it?
Thanks, Vanessa. Since we are friends, I'll say "cheers for that, Veebers!"
Having a digital collection absolutely does not make anyone less of a fan! I think some of the "physical media or nothing" crowd would be shocked to learn how many of the people who actually make and sell this stuff have embraced digital. J.R. Bookwalter himself said in the recent Makeflix creator roundtable that I hosted that his digital collection far outnumbers his physical collection. We all have to do what works best for us, and we all have to answer those tough questions, eventually.
I`ve been simultaneously streamlining and adding to my collection. There`s a few small bits I want to fill in in my Comedy and Drama, TV Series and Animation collections but they are nearly done. My Action collection is pretty much done now, all I can see happening there is maybe a few upgrades from DVD to Blu-ray on some titles. Now the plan is to take a breather and then the next phase is to fill in the gaps in my Cult/ Classics and Music on DVD/ Blu-Ray collections. It's been a great time to get the last few bits of the Comedy and Drama collections, the prices have been so reasonable.
I’m totally there with you. I’ve collected lots of DVDs I hardly ever watch what I have. I’ve been collecting since the early 90s and have an overflow of movies and TV shows. Not to say that I’m not going to watch them 🙂
Switched to case logic binders years ago. Was VERY hard to get rid of cases and artwork as i used to create and print custom artwork. But i was finally able to breath again lol
It's always sad but necessary to refocus collecting habits. I will probably need to do that myself soon.
Dude, you are awesome and most wonderful!!!
Well thank you very much!
I feel the compulsive need to GET EVERYTHING a lot. Especially when I see other collections that dwarf mine. I see, well, collections like yours and lonely think "man, why can't that be me?"
But when I step back into reality I don't want that to be me, lol. I just want to collect and curate only what I truly want and love.
I've culled the collection a few times. After getting rid of stuff I always feel a pang of regret. But then I tell myself (you don't ever watch that stuff and only kinda like it, so why keep it?"
If it's something popular and widely available that I like well enough but don't LOVE? I'll let it go because it's either available on a streamer I'm already subbed to or I can pick it up again cheap if I want to.
My collection might not be as impressively massive as others, but it's mine. 😀
I really enjoy your channel, Heath. Im glad you're around, it's a good vibe with your channel. Im into nearly everything you are into, sans the Westerns and im not (yet) a big fan of films older than 1977... But I completely dig the channel, so please keep it up. 🤘
The VHS copies are more likely to be uncensored or the original unaltered movies compared to DVD's and Blurays need to to be kept unless the DVD's haven't been altered.
Yes agree collecting can soon become accumulation...so a clear out just feels good..
Ha, all my CD's, DVD's and Blu-ray's are all in binders. And you're probably all cringing saying, "he's not a real collector." But I've also got over 6,000 vinyl records. I'm all 4K now when it comes to movies. My 4K UHD's and Criterion's are the only ones that are staying in their original packaging. Binders are awesome to flip through to pick out a movie. I'm very happy with them.
Reminds me of my one grandmother & her VHS collection, when I was a kid. Lady had a two bedroom, single story condo with no basement. I'd walk into her living room & every available spot se could put a shelf all the way around the room had one filled with VHS tapes. Then, in her bedroom, she had more stacked all along the long wall about knee high. I don't have any VHS, but thank God mine isn't that bad. I like to joke that that I'm somewhere between impressive for one person & pathetic for a public library.
People should meet in person and exchange, sell, and buy their excess physical media. Forget about Ebay.
I've got around 400 titles I also have steelbooks of and no longer need the amaray release. I've sold quite a few, but I have loads left of that pile to sell. I always get rid of DVDs when I upgrade them, unless I keep them for special features
Yes, I’m here now, but I went down disc only route. Right now I am deduplicating my collection and purging any doubles.
I love the curation idea. I went over to ebay and saved your store.
My collection isn't that huge. But I definitely filled a wall full of Bluray and Dvds 📀...No doubles unless for a special reason. Like signed copies. I spent from 8pm till 5am last night just reorganizing my collection. I couldn't believe how long it took me. And I noticed there's gonna be a point that I have to cut back. Only get things I really want badly. I also noticed I got rid of a few things in the past I regretted. So just be careful what you sell. Stay Awesome!!!
Only thing I will keep duplicates of: Lord of the Rings trilogy Extended Editions. The DVD, Blu-ray, and 4k box collections!🥰
Doing the same thing right now. Getting rid of stuff as I watch them if I don’t enjoy them that much.
One way to help with this problem is to become more selective about what you purchase. Try your best to only buy things that you really love and want to have forever. There was a point where I made a bunch of blind purchases. For the most part I no longer do that. Of course there are a few exceptions. But now I mostly only buy what I have already seen and know I like.
In my estimation just go out and get some 1x6s make some shelves and just put them inside the same room space them away from the wall just like a library do
I can totally relate to this!
I recently started doing this with some collectible action figures. I genuinely like most of what I have, but I have so much of it that a lot of it is stored in boxes or plastic bins. If I can't display it, what good is it doing me? So I started prioritizing and selling off some stuff (made some decent money so far since some of it went up in value since the time I originally bought it).
I plan to do that to some extent with my DVD/Blu-Ray/4K collection.... purging stuff that is either completely redundant or that I just don't want/need anymore, and sell it. For instance, I recently got the Smallville complete series Blu-Ray set, so I'll probably get rid of exist DVDs and Blu-Rays (I already had the first half of the series on DVD and the rest on Blu-Ray individually).
Something that I started doing some time ago, but that I really need to do even more, is make my own combo packs if I want to hang onto an older edition (i.e. a DVD that has special features that didn't carry over to a Blu-Ray release). For example, if the Blu-Ray is 1 disc, then I'll get a 2-disc case, and move the artwork, etc. over to it, and and put both the Blu-Ray and older DVD in there, and have one case on the shelf.
Something else that I want to do is move some things into more efficient packaging. Particularly a lot of TV seasons and the like that came in those huge fold-out digi-packs and other packaging that is oversized for which there are more efficient options these days (it is easy enough to get a 6-disc DVD case that is the same size as a standard 1-disc case). I will just move a bunch of that stuff over to standard size cases and (whether photoshopping it myself or downloading it from a custom cover site), print up the artwork to slide into the sleeve. There are some releases for which I do love the look of the original packaging even if it is oversized... for a select portion, I'll keep them in that original packaging. But where I can save some space, I will. Obviously this comes with the arguable hassle of having to buy more cases, ink, photo paper, etc. to do this... and then unloading just some cases might be tough unless its something out of print where even the packaging might go for something... but it's an option of keeping the on-disc content while saving space is the main priority.
One idea that I've recently been toying with, but I'm REALLY debating on it (because even a year ago I would have considered it to be "physical media blasphemy") would be not only to swap out cases as described above, but instead of traditionally sized DVD or Blu-Ray cases, to put them into those CD-sized poly cases (which are made of sturdier plastic than traditional jewel cases). Part of me hates the idea of putting them in a completely different style of case. BUT from a space perspective, not only would I save on width by putting the aforementioned TV seasons in this sort of case, but they 'd also be shorter, allowing a lot more to fit on a single shelving unit. And this could be done with movies as well to save space.
I fully understand if some find the idea of combining discs from different editions, swapping out packaging at all, etc. to be something that they wouldn't want to do if they want to keep their collection 100% in it's original state. But again, if space is becoming an issue, and keeping the on-disc content is the main priority, and sacrificing the original packaging in some manner is not a deal breaker, it is a way to keep stuff.
Some times film fans forget why we buy, eventually we start buying for the sake of buying b/c shopping is fun. I only buy a film if after the 1st view weeks later i still think about the film otherwise letting time go by, if you forget it then it didn't mean much. Good idea, getting rid of your older formats (HV/DVD versions) that alone will reduce your collection a lot & make a buyer on eBay happy.