In Episode 4 of Shelf Media Society, James is joined by long-time supporter and boutique media expert Let’s Talk Criterion for a deep dive into the world of physical media collecting. From VHS rentals and the early DVD days to Blu-ray, 4K, and Criterion Collection obsession, the pair explore how collecting films has evolved over the decades.

The conversation covers Criterion’s history and transformation, discovering world cinema through boutique labels, importing rare releases, slipcover culture, A24 collector editions, and the passion behind preserving cinema physically. They also discuss YouTube content creation, the work behind film review channels, and how physical media opens the door to discovering directors and films you may never otherwise watch.

Along the way, they talk David Lean classics, favourite Criterion releases, colle ...