Some fond memories of my childhood include renting DVDs from my local library. There was something special about being able to pause when you needed a break, being able to rewind and rewatch your favorite scene once (maybe even twice,) and the best part? Not having to watch any commercials. You were fully locked in to your feature film, complete with comfy blankets and freshly made popcorn. Fast forward to 2025, and DVDs are making a quiet, nostalgic comeback, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier about it.

As someone who loves TV and movies, thus the Lydia Loves TV brand, I’ve noticed a shift lately. The cost of streaming services continues to rise, there’s a risk of platforms pulling your favorite series at any time, and worst, there’s a noticeable amount of TV series and movies that aren’t available on any streaming service. DVDs offer something streaming can’t—consistency.

Once you own a DVD, it’s yours. No licensing changes, no internet required, no buffering. In a world where everything is digital, there’s something refreshingly tangible about physically owning media. Your physical media library is yours to keep, no matter what streaming platforms decide to do.

Curating My Collection

While I’ve been hunting for physical media for the past few years, I’m finally making it my goal to curate my collection. I now own a DVD player (again), and I’m ready to fill my shelves with childhood classics, specific holiday specials, complete series box sets, and more niche films. I’ve taken to purchasing items at thrift stores and even eBay and have dedicated creating a “manifest list” of items I’d like to find. I like to think collecting DVDs is more than a hobby, but a personal expression of my love for cinema.

Physical Media vs. Streaming

I get it—streaming is convenient. It’s easy to click play and instantly watch anything from your phone or smart TV. But as someone who’s trying to enjoy entertainment on a budget, dropping hundreds of dollars for streaming services isn’t something I want to continue. DVDs add a layer of intentionality to the movie-watching experience and give you a better bang for your buck.

In a way, DVDs force us to slow down and really appreciate what we’re watching. It’s not just about consuming content; it’s about experiencing it.

Final Thoughts

So, are DVDs really making a comeback? For me, the answer is yes. I’m all about the nostalgic feeling, the sense of ownership, and becoming a little less tied to streaming services. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone who’s just rediscovered their love for physical media, now is the perfect time to start building (or rebuilding) your collection.

Let me know your favorite films to own on DVD, or share a photo of your collection—I’d love to see it! Here’s to making 2025 the year of intentional movie-watching.

Want more? Check out my 2025 Ins and Outs.