Yes, there is indeed a Blockbuster still open in 2022. Against all odds, one lone franchise location in Bend, Oregon, remains a beacon of nostalgic entertainment in a streaming-dominated world.
The Unlikely Survivor: Bend, Oregon’s Blockbuster
While the video rental giant Blockbuster Video declared bankruptcy in 2010 and its remaining corporate stores were shuttered in 2014, a few franchise locations managed to stubbornly cling to existence. Of those, only one remained open to the public in 2022: the store located in Bend, Oregon. This isn’t just a business; it’s a living museum, a testament to a bygone era, and a source of local pride. Its survival story is one of community support, strategic adaptation, and a healthy dose of nostalgia.
The store’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to provide something that streaming services simply cannot: a tangible experience. Browsing aisles filled with physical media, getting personalized recommendations from knowledgeable staff, and the simple joy of holding a movie box in your hands offer a contrast to the endless scrolling and algorithms of modern entertainment. Furthermore, the Bend Blockbuster actively cultivates a strong community presence through events, promotions, and a genuine connection with its customers.
What Makes Bend’s Blockbuster Special?
It’s more than just the last of its kind. The Bend Blockbuster has embraced its unique status and transformed itself into a tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world who want to experience a piece of their childhood or simply witness a relic of the past. The store sells Blockbuster-branded merchandise, hosts themed movie nights, and even offers lodging through Airbnb, allowing visitors to literally sleep in a recreation of a Blockbuster store.
The manager, Sandi Harding, has been instrumental in the store’s survival, becoming a local celebrity and tirelessly promoting the Blockbuster’s unique appeal. She’s fostered a strong connection with the Bend community, ensuring their continued support. The store’s resilience demonstrates the power of local businesses to thrive even in the face of overwhelming technological disruption when they focus on community and unique experiences.
The Fate of Other Blockbuster Locations
Before Bend became the sole survivor, other franchise locations across the globe also bravely resisted the tide. However, one by one, they succumbed to the changing landscape. While the Bend location continues its vigil, it stands as a monument to all the Blockbusters that came before it, each playing its own role in shaping the entertainment habits of generations.
Is Blockbuster Making a Comeback?
No, Blockbuster is not making a widespread comeback. While the Bend location enjoys a resurgence of interest and draws tourists, it is an isolated instance of survival, not a revival of the franchise. The factors that led to Blockbuster’s demise, such as the rise of streaming services and the declining cost of physical media, remain significant challenges. While there have been instances of other entertainment companies leveraging the Blockbuster name for nostalgia-based experiences (pop-up shops, branding on streaming content), these are marketing plays, not signs of a true revival.
Blockbuster FAQs: Answers to Your Burning Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Blockbuster’s current state:
FAQ 1: Is the Bend, Oregon, Blockbuster really the only one left?
Yes, as of late 2022 and into 2023, the Blockbuster Video in Bend, Oregon, is the only remaining publicly accessible franchise location in the world. There may be very limited exceptions related to private or specific use cases, but for regular customer access, Bend is your destination.
FAQ 2: What can I do at the Bend Blockbuster?
You can rent movies and games on physical media, purchase Blockbuster-themed merchandise, browse the nostalgia-inducing aisles, take photos with the iconic Blockbuster sign, and chat with the friendly staff. They also host events such as movie nights and themed parties.
FAQ 3: Can I still get a Blockbuster membership card?
Yes, you can still obtain a Blockbuster membership card at the Bend location. It’s a popular souvenir and a tangible reminder of the pre-streaming era.
FAQ 4: Why did Blockbuster fail in the first place?
Blockbuster failed primarily due to its inability to adapt to the changing entertainment landscape. They famously passed on the opportunity to purchase Netflix for a relatively small sum. They also clung to the brick-and-mortar model, failing to embrace online rentals and streaming services quickly enough. Additionally, late fees and a lack of responsiveness to customer preferences contributed to their downfall.
FAQ 5: Does the Bend Blockbuster stream movies?
No, the Bend Blockbuster does not stream movies. It focuses on providing a traditional video rental experience, emphasizing physical media and the community aspect of browsing for movies.
FAQ 6: How can I support the last Blockbuster?
You can support the Bend Blockbuster by visiting the store, renting movies, buying merchandise, following them on social media, and spreading the word about their unique story. Every little bit helps keep the lights on and the nostalgia alive.
FAQ 7: Are there any plans to open more Blockbuster stores?
There are no known credible plans to open more Blockbuster stores as of 2022/2023. The market conditions that led to Blockbuster’s decline remain in place, making a large-scale revival highly unlikely.
FAQ 8: What kind of merchandise does the Bend Blockbuster sell?
The store sells a variety of Blockbuster-themed merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, mugs, socks, keychains, and even Blockbuster-branded beer (depending on local regulations). They also offer unique souvenirs that capture the nostalgia of the video rental era.
FAQ 9: Is the Bend Blockbuster profitable?
While specific financial details are not publicly available, the Bend Blockbuster is believed to be profitable, largely due to its status as a tourist attraction and its strong local support. The store leverages its unique position to generate revenue through rentals, merchandise sales, and events.
FAQ 10: What are the Bend Blockbuster’s hours of operation?
It’s best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date hours of operation, as they may vary depending on the season and special events.
FAQ 11: Can I donate my old VHS tapes or DVDs to the Bend Blockbuster?
While they appreciate the sentiment, the Bend Blockbuster generally does not accept unsolicited donations of VHS tapes or DVDs. They have a curated collection of movies and games, and space is limited.
FAQ 12: What is the address of the last Blockbuster?
The last Blockbuster is located at 211 NE Revere Ave, Bend, OR 97701. Be sure to visit if you’re ever in the area and experience a piece of history!
A Legacy Preserved
The survival of the Bend Blockbuster is a remarkable story of resilience, community support, and the enduring power of nostalgia. It serves as a reminder of a simpler time, when renting a movie was an event, and browsing the aisles of a video store was a shared experience. While the era of Blockbuster Video may be over, its legacy lives on in Bend, Oregon, where the last picture show continues to play.