Is Blockbuster worth all the attention? The infamous last Blockbuster in Bend is a center of nostalgia and fond memories for those who visit – whether they are locals, from out of town or from out of state. People from all over America come to take pictures and record their experiences at the only remaining Blockbuster in the world.
The entertainment and tourism industries are milking Blockbuster for all they can get. In addition to regular merchandise, the store also sells products specific to being the last Blockbuster. A Nxetflix documentary aptly named The Last Blockbuster was released in 2020, receiving, in general, good reviews, if mixed. On IMDB, it received an overall rating of 6.7 out of 10. On Rotten Tomatoes, it was rated 63%, based on what the audience thought about the film.
In 2022, the Netflix sitcom, Blockbuster, released and received lower reviews. IMDB rated it a 5 out of 10. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the show was rated 43% based on audience opinions. Reviews mentioned that the writers of Blockbuster were trying too hard to bring up feelings of nostalgia, and it was too similar to every other sitcom; the ideas weren’t original. With such an accomplished and well-known cast, it was a surprise to many that the show was not a success.
How long will Blockbuster stay open? Tourism is the largest factor that is keeping Blockbuster alive and bustling. Will nostalgia be enough to support the video rental store? Generations of people remember visiting their local Blockbuster stores, even when they were very young. This reminiscing could keep the store open – for the sake of keeping old traditions alive. However, Netflix continues to grow in popularity, along with the other streaming and rental services out there. Only time will tell whether the last Blockbuster will shut down or continue to thrive.
Alysia Seaborn
Reporter
