This right here, is just a small sample of my sizeable "LaserDisc" collection. I've always been an avid fan of rare, hard-to-get movies titles so back in 1995, where VHS was still all the rage, the only way to go was this aesthetically beautiful format. I'll never forget the first time I walked past an electronics store selling these players. They were showcasing a scene from the classic "Terminator 2" on a huge television set in the display window. I witnessed something truly never seen before. And that was it. I was sold immediately. I mean, one of the best movies I've ever seen, and presented with additional material not available on traditional VHS? I literally ran into the store to reserve one there and then.
For those uninitiated with LaserDiscs, they came on that huge multi-coloured platinum looking format. Though, given storage limitations at the time, you'd have to turn over the disc midway through a movie to watch it in its entirity. Some longer titles even came of double discs, meaning up to three swap overs! Though a small inconvenience at the time, given the high quality of the media on it. I mean, you even had commentary tracks! And in some cases, "Making's of" mini-documentaries! Now, of course, this is the norm and has been for a long time, but with only VHS as it's only real rival counterpart back then, you really consider yourself one of the elite! I'll never forget the first time I watched "The Exorcist" on that format. Scared the hell outta me, in every bit of razor sharp detail and surround sound. I loved it and, to be honest, still do!
Well, as niche and luxurious as the format was, it was always at risk of being superseded. And the killer avalanche came in the form of DVD. Better than my beloved LaserDisc is almost every way, I have to admit. Nothing lasts forever, as the saying goes. But, in terms of pure nostalgic memories, the era of the LaserDisc will always have a special place in my heart...
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