The last operating Blockbuster Video store stands proudly in Bend, Oregon. A relic of a bygone era, it serves as a testament to physical media, community nostalgia, and the enduring appeal of the shared movie-watching experience.
The Last Blockbuster: A Singular Stand
While Blockbuster Video, once a behemoth of the entertainment industry with thousands of stores worldwide, filed for bankruptcy in 2010 and subsequently closed almost all of its locations, a single store stubbornly remains. This beacon of celluloid and VHS tapes is located in Bend, Oregon, at 211 NE Revere Ave. More than just a rental outlet, it’s a museum, a cultural landmark, and a symbol of a simpler time before streaming dominated our screens. Its resilience speaks volumes about the local community’s dedication to preserving a piece of their history and the power of nostalgia in the digital age.
A Relic of the Rental Revolution
Blockbuster Video, in its heyday, represented a revolution in home entertainment. It offered an unparalleled selection of movies and games, transforming Friday nights into communal experiences. Families would browse the aisles, debate over the best title, and stock up on popcorn and candy for a cozy evening at home. The Bend Blockbuster provides a tangible connection to that past, offering a taste of the tangible, the communal, and the curated that is often absent in the algorithm-driven world of streaming.
The Bend Blockbuster’s Unique Appeal
What is it about this specific Blockbuster that allowed it to outlast the rest? Several factors contributed to its survival:
- Strong Community Support: The Bend community has rallied behind the store, recognizing its significance and actively supporting its continued operation.
- Local Ownership: While Blockbuster was a massive corporation, the Bend store was independently owned by Ken and Debbie Tisher. Their personal investment and dedication proved crucial.
- Novelty and Tourism: As the last Blockbuster, it attracts tourists from around the globe, creating a steady stream of revenue and media attention.
- Merchandise Sales: The store capitalized on its unique status by selling Blockbuster-branded merchandise, further bolstering its financial viability.
- Pure Nostalgia: For many, visiting the store is a trip down memory lane, triggering feelings of nostalgia and a longing for a simpler time.
The Store’s Current Operations
The Bend Blockbuster operates much like any Blockbuster of old, renting movies and games on physical media. However, it has adapted to the times by offering a carefully curated selection of new releases and classic titles, catering to both local residents and nostalgic tourists. The store is also a popular destination for photos and social media posts, further solidifying its status as a cultural icon.
The Enduring Power of Physical Media
Despite the dominance of streaming services, there remains a strong argument for the enduring power of physical media. For some, the tactile experience of holding a DVD or Blu-ray, the ritual of inserting it into a player, and the higher audio and video quality offer a superior viewing experience. Moreover, physical media provides a sense of ownership and control that is lacking in the ephemeral world of streaming.
Beyond Nostalgia: Why Blockbuster Matters
The survival of the Bend Blockbuster is more than just a nostalgic curiosity. It raises important questions about the future of entertainment, the role of community in preserving cultural heritage, and the value of tangible experiences in an increasingly digital world. It represents a resistance against the homogenization of entertainment and a celebration of the unique and the local.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about the last Blockbuster Video store:
FAQ 1: What is the exact address of the last Blockbuster?
The last Blockbuster is located at 211 NE Revere Ave, Bend, Oregon 97701, USA.
FAQ 2: Is it really the last Blockbuster in the world?
Yes, as of today, the Bend, Oregon location is the only remaining Blockbuster Video store operating in the world.
FAQ 3: Can I still rent movies there?
Yes! The store continues to rent movies and video games on DVD, Blu-ray, and even some older VHS tapes.
FAQ 4: Do I need a Blockbuster membership to rent movies?
You will need to become a member of the Bend Blockbuster to rent movies. This usually involves providing ID and local address verification (or proof of lodging for tourists) and signing a rental agreement.
FAQ 5: What kind of merchandise does the store sell?
The store offers a variety of Blockbuster-themed merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, stickers, mugs, and even replica Blockbuster membership cards. These items are incredibly popular with tourists.
FAQ 6: Is there a fee to visit the store if I don’t want to rent a movie?
No, it is free to enter and browse the store, even if you don’t plan to rent anything. Many people visit simply to take photos and experience the nostalgia.
FAQ 7: Does the store offer special events or promotions?
Yes, the Bend Blockbuster frequently hosts special events, such as movie screenings, themed parties, and celebrity appearances. Check their social media for updates.
FAQ 8: Can I buy the store?
While the store has received offers, the current owners, Ken and Debbie Tisher, have no plans to sell at this time. They are committed to preserving the store for the community.
FAQ 9: What are the store’s hours of operation?
The store’s hours can vary, so it’s best to check their website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
FAQ 10: What happens if the store finally closes?
While no one knows for sure, the owners have expressed a desire to preserve the Blockbuster legacy in some way, possibly by turning the space into a museum or archive.
FAQ 11: How has the store managed to survive for so long?
A combination of community support, local ownership, tourism, merchandise sales, and pure nostalgia have all contributed to the store’s longevity.
FAQ 12: Are there any other former Blockbuster locations that still exist in some form?
While most former Blockbuster locations have been repurposed, a few building exteriors still remain and can be identified by their distinctive blue and yellow color schemes, though they are now occupied by different businesses.