A Director’s Rebellion Against Digital Film
In a world increasingly dominated by digital streaming and online content, one director is taking a bold step back in time. Robert dos Santos, a Portuguese filmmaker born in South Africa, has released the first movie to be made available exclusively on VHS in 20 years. His latest film, This Is How the World Ends, marks a deliberate departure from the modern trend of instant digital access.
Dos Santos is no stranger to unconventional storytelling. He gained recognition for his short film A Moment, which won best film at the Los Angeles Film Awards in 2021. This new project continues his tradition of challenging the norms of the film industry.
VHS players were officially discontinued in 2016, more than a decade after DVDs became the dominant format. As a result, This Is How the World Ends can only be viewed by those who still own a VCR. Dos Santos, however, sees this as an opportunity rather than a limitation.
Speaking about his decision, he said: “It’s a film made by humans for humans. I want people to feel something that’s imperfect, because VHS is not a perfect medium, but there’s also a physical process to it. You have to order a tape and, for some people, actually go out and buy a VCR.”
He added: “I’m asking people to do a lot, but that’s what it means to be a human. That’s what it means to exist in this lifetime, to actually participate in the act of life, and not to just allow things to happen. It’s to go out there, and feel the bumps and the grooves of life.”
The Debate Over Streaming Services
While streaming services have revolutionized how we consume media, they have also sparked debate over their cost and accessibility. Many viewers find subscription fees expensive, and the ever-changing nature of these platforms means that certain films can disappear from the catalog without warning.
Unlike physical media, where you can purchase a video tape or DVD and keep it forever, streaming services have the power to alter their offerings at any time. This lack of ownership has led some to question whether we are truly in control of our viewing habits.
Despite these concerns, there has been a resurgence in interest in older forms of physical media. DVDs, Blu-Rays, CDs, and vinyl records have all seen increased sales in recent years. Although physical media sales declined by nine per cent in 2025, this was a much smaller drop compared to the over 20 per cent declines in 2023 and 2024.
A Nostalgic Movement
This revival is largely driven by Gen Z, who have developed a strong appreciation for nostalgia. For many, physical media represents more than just a way to watch a film—it’s a tangible connection to the past.
Dos Santos believes that his film will appeal to those who value this kind of experience. “I love the idea that you need to be part of the club to watch this,” he said. “It’s for people that have a specific taste. There is a band of human beings who really understand what we’re doing.”
Looking ahead, Dos Santos plans to release This Is How the World Ends on DVD and Blu-Ray before it makes its way to cinemas and eventually streaming platforms.
The Power of Independent Thinking
Independent readers are often defined by their unique perspectives and values. They are not bound by traditional demographics but instead by their attitudes and beliefs. In a world that is becoming increasingly fragmented, communities are seeking reliable sources of information and honest opinions.
For these readers, the ability to make informed decisions and take a stand on issues that matter is crucial. By supporting independent journalism and diverse forms of media, they play an important role in shaping the future of content consumption.
