The Streaming Wars and the Scarcity of Animated Content
The rise of streaming services has created a unique challenge within the animation medium: a scarcity of physical media. One of the persistent frustrations with Disney+ is navigating through endless credits from various regions between episodes of Bluey and dealing with abrupt episode endings. Restarting the binge-watching cycle often leads viewers back to the main series menu, which detracts from the viewing experience. As a result, I found myself purchasing Seasons One and Two of Bluey on DVD.
The Importance of Background Entertainment for Babies
In the whirlwind of parenting, having background entertainment while tending to a growing child is crucial. Tired of constant “Are you still watching?” reminders, we switched to live channels like Pluto TV. My child’s attention quickly shifted to Strawberry Shortcake on Pluto TV, a show that I was excited to explore with her. Watching it on live television, reminiscent of my own childhood, allowed us to bond during feeding times. This experience inspired us to seek out the Y2K-era Strawberry Shortcake shows on physical media and hunt for nostalgic kids’ clothing from that era on resale platforms like Depop.
Challenges in the Animation Industry
Despite a surge in animation production since 2020, it remains perplexing that even popular properties like Bluey are primarily available on DVD. Concerns exist that the Blu-ray format might compromise animation quality by overstressing the presentation. Studios often see preserving the art form as too expensive. Recent news has also highlighted issues like disc rot affecting DVDs, particularly linked to Warner Bros. The Verge reported that certain Warner Bros. DVDs produced between 2006 and 2008 are deteriorating, prompting replacements or exchanges for out-of-print titles. Although DVDs should last up to 100 years with proper care, the unfortunate reality is that specific Warner Bros. titles are succumbing to rot.
The Scarcity of Iconic Animated Classics
Moreover, the situation is exacerbated on platforms like Max, where Looney Tunes is frequently removed in favor of less compelling reality shows. The Looney Tunes history boasts a variety of physical releases, including the revered Golden Collection available on DVD and the Platinum Collection released between 2011 and 2014. The recent Collector’s Choice re-issues concluded last year, and this June, a vault box set, Disney’s term for limited access, is scheduled for release. This artificial scarcity surrounding merchandise and physical releases is becoming increasingly apparent.
The Nostalgic Power of Physical Media
While Looney Tunes benefits from Blu-ray releases alongside shows like The Simpsons, Adventure Time, and Rick and Morty, the majority of these titles cater to adult audiences. By contrast, children’s media continues to predominantly reside on DVD, a format slowly ceding ground to Blu-ray technology.
Embracing Nostalgia for Future Generations
For years, companies have capitalized on the lucrative nature of nostalgia, but it shouldn’t take exploitative tactics to encourage them to tap into re-emerging fandoms. Access to both classic and newer media on high-quality physical formats should not be relegated to premium collectors. Ensuring easy access to beloved shows and stories for future generations is essential. For now, I can satisfy my daughter’s Strawberry Shortcake obsession through a streaming service that values it. However, the question remains: how long will that last?
FAQ
Why are animated shows like Bluey primarily on DVD?
Despite the increasing production of animated content, many popular shows are primarily available on DVD due to concerns about maintaining quality in higher formats like Blu-ray and the perceived costs of preservation.
Is disc rot a common issue with DVDs?
Yes, disc rot is a known problem, particularly with certain manufacturers. Reports indicate that titles from Warner Bros. released between 2006 and 2008 are deteriorating and need replacement.
How can I access classic animated shows for my children?
Classic animated shows can be accessed through both physical media like DVDs and streaming platforms that feature these series, such as Pluto TV and others that cater to children’s content.
What are the benefits of watching classic shows with children?
Watching classic shows with children provides a nostalgic bond between generations and allows parents to share beloved stories and characters, fostering a deeper connection through shared experiences.
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