For fans of horror, starting a collection of DVDs is more than just building a library of films. It’s about creating an experience, preserving the legacy of the genre, and celebrating the stories that have haunted audiences for decades. Whether you’re a casual fan looking to own a few favorites or an aspiring collector ready to dive deep, starting a collection of DVD’s of horror movies can be both exciting and rewarding.
Finding Your Horror Identity
The first step to starting a collection is knowing what kind of horror resonates with you. The genre is vast, spanning everything from psychological thrillers to creature features and supernatural tales. Some collectors are drawn to the gothic elegance of films like Dracula or The Others, while others thrive on the adrenaline of slashers like Halloween or Friday the 13th. Identifying your personal taste helps shape your collection and makes it more meaningful. Instead of chasing every release, you can focus on films that speak to your love of horror.
Starting Small and Building Steadily
Every collector begins somewhere, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A good way to start is by picking up affordable DVDs of well-known classics. Many iconic horror titles are readily available at low prices, giving you the chance to build a strong foundation without spending too much. Over time, as your passion grows, you can begin to search for rare editions, box sets, or special releases that add depth to your collection.
Exploring Secondhand Stores and Thrift Shops
One of the joys of collecting DVDs is the thrill of the hunt. Thrift stores, secondhand shops, and flea markets often carry hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. You might stumble across a rare edition tucked away for just a few dollars, or find a stack of classics that someone else parted with. These places not only make collecting affordable but also give each DVD a story of how it was found, adding sentimental value to your shelves.
The Appeal of Boutique Labels
Beyond mainstream releases, boutique labels like Arrow Video, Shout! Factory, and Criterion have carved out a space for horror collectors. These companies put immense care into restoring old films, designing unique packaging, and including thoughtful bonus features. Owning one of these editions is like owning a piece of film history. They may be pricier than bargain finds, but they give collectors something truly special—an enriched experience that goes beyond simply watching a movie.
Mixing Popular Titles with Hidden Gems
A well-rounded horror DVD collection isn’t just about owning the big names. While it’s important to have classics like The Exorcist, A Nightmare on Elm Street, and Psycho, part of the fun is discovering hidden gems. Movies like The Changeling or Session 9 may not be as mainstream but offer unforgettable scares and atmospheres. Adding a mix of well-known hits and underrated titles makes your collection unique and sparks conversations with other fans.
Organizing Your Collection
As your collection grows, organization becomes key. Some collectors arrange their DVDs alphabetically, while others prefer to group them by subgenre—slashers, supernatural, zombies, or psychological thrillers. Others even organize them by decade to reflect the evolution of horror over time. How you arrange your collection is personal, but it adds to the sense of ownership and pride. Displaying DVDs on shelves not only keeps them accessible but also creates a visual showcase of your passion for horror.
The Community of Horror Collectors
Collecting is rarely a solitary hobby. Horror fans are known for their enthusiasm and love of sharing recommendations. Online forums, social media groups, and local conventions provide opportunities to connect with other collectors. These spaces are perfect for trading titles, discussing rare finds, and learning about upcoming releases. Being part of a community turns your collection into more than a personal project—it becomes part of a larger network of fans preserving the spirit of horror cinema.
Preserving the Physical Experience
In a digital age dominated by streaming, collecting DVDs is about holding onto something tangible. There’s a ritual to pulling a DVD off the shelf, opening the case, and setting it into the player. The artwork on the cover, the liner notes, and the physical presence of the disc all contribute to the experience. With DVD’s of horror movies, you don’t just watch a film—you interact with a piece of media that carries weight, history, and permanence.
Expanding Beyond the Movies
Horror collecting often expands into related memorabilia. Posters, figurines, and soundtracks can complement your DVDs and make your collection even more immersive. Some editions even come packaged with extras like booklets, replica props, or lobby cards that transform them into collector’s items. Adding these pieces creates a layered experience that reflects the creativity and culture surrounding horror films.
A Legacy of Fear and Fun
Starting a horror DVD collection isn’t just about owning movies—it’s about creating a legacy. Each disc represents a part of the genre’s evolution, from black-and-white classics to modern reimaginings. Your collection becomes a time capsule, preserving the stories, artistry, and atmosphere that define horror. More importantly, it becomes something to share with others, whether it’s a spooky movie night with friends or passing down your library to the next generation of fans.
Horror movies are designed to linger, and so too should the way we collect them. With a thoughtful approach, a spirit of curiosity, and a love for the genre, anyone can build a collection that captures the thrill of being scared in the dark. Starting small today can lead to a library that you’ll treasure for years to come—a collection that keeps the heartbeat of horror alive in your home.
