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Videodrome in Atlanta is one of the last video rental stores open in Georgia

Gillberg
Videodrome in Atlanta is one of the last video rental stores open in Georgia

More than 30 years after their release, people are still watching films like “Top Gun” and “ET the Extra-Terrestrial.” But there’s a way to make the experience even more nostalgic.

Atlanta has one of the last video rental stores open: Videodrome. Named after the 1983 David Cronenberg film, this movie spot has tens of thousands of titles to choose from. Rentals are just $5, which gives you a week with a movie, unless it’s a new release, available for three days.

The business was opened in 1998 by Matt Booth, who worked in video stores his entire life. But when it came to movies, his tastes were more niche and international, minus the big summer blockbusters.

“I wanted to do something less corporate,” he said. “I had the things I liked and I had a partner at the time, Jeff Sutton, who liked the things he liked. We thought those things were underrepresented in video stores, so we got some open one with the things we love.”

Even if it allowed Videodrome to stand out from the competition, it ultimately wouldn’t be necessary. At one time, America had tens of thousands of video rental stores, but they couldn’t compete with streaming and on-demand services. According to USA Today, by the end of 2017, 86% of them had closed their doors and their numbers have only decreased since.

Videodrome has adapted by expanding its options while remaining loyal to its original customer base. So, you can now rent installments of Fast and Furious and Marvel Cinematic Universe while bringing over your friends who love anime, indie films, and Italian horror.

They’re also having fun with their staff-curated collections, including themes like the year’s best New Year’s releases and “Party with Pre-Code” highlighting films made before the Hays Code, which heavily censored films between 1934 and 1968. Additionally, Videodrome holds special film screenings at the Plaza and Tara in Atlanta.

“I’m lucky to be able to do what I want to do in life,” Booth said.

Videodrome is located at 617 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta. It is open every day from noon to 10 p.m. For more information, visit videodromeatl.com. To stay informed about new additions and events, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

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