The rental landscape has moved from national chains to streaming platforms, digital storefronts and a small number of kiosks and independent stores. Subscriptions offer instant access; digital rentals and purchases eliminate late fees and provide flexibility; kiosks and specialty shops serve collectors and local customers. Choose based on convenience, selection and whether you want to own a copy.

The market has changed - pick what fits your needs

In 2006, video rental stores dominated the landscape. Today, you have many more ways to watch: subscription streaming services, digital rentals and purchases, kiosks, and a few remaining physical shops. Each option has trade-offs in cost, selection, convenience and ownership.

Streaming subscriptions for convenience

Subscription services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu and Max give instant access to large catalogs for a monthly fee. They remove late fees and the need to return anything. The downside: titles rotate and you don't own the movie. If you watch a lot, subscriptions often cost less per title than repeated single rentals.

Digital rentals and purchases for temporary or permanent access

Platforms such as Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu/Prime Video let you rent or buy films digitally. Rentals typically give a 48-72 hour viewing window after you start playback. Buying gives permanent digital access. This model eliminates overdue fees and physical returns, and is convenient for offline viewing on some devices.

Kiosks and local stores for physical copies

Redbox-style kiosks still exist at grocery and convenience locations and let you rent discs for short periods. Independent video stores - increasingly rare - can offer curated selections, used DVDs/Blu-rays and face-to-face service. If you value physical media (extra features, highest-quality discs), these are the places to look. Policies and availability vary by operator.

The Blockbuster story and nostalgia

The nationwide Blockbuster chain that dominated rentals is now a relic. Most corporate stores have closed since the late 2000s; a handful of independently run locations operate as nostalgia businesses and local rental shops. If you remember renting from Blockbuster, those surviving stores focus on community, souvenirs and curated rentals rather than a large corporate network.

How to choose

  • If you want instant access and low friction: choose a streaming subscription.
  • If you need a single new release or own a copy: rent or buy digitally.
  • If you prefer discs or collector editions: look for kiosks, used-media shops or specialty retailers.
  • If customer service and a local experience matter: find an independent video store or community library.

Final thought

There's no single "best" rental place anymore. Pick the option that matches how you watch - occasional new releases, bingeing catalog titles, or collecting physical media - and you'll get the best value and experience.
  1. Confirm the current operational status and number/location of independently run Blockbuster stores.
  2. Verify ownership/brand status of Blockbuster (Dish Network trademark status and any franchise arrangements).

FAQs about Blockbuster Movie

Are there still Blockbuster stores where I can rent movies?
A few independently run, nostalgia-focused locations remain, but the national Blockbuster chain no longer operates as it did in the 2000s. These surviving shops emphasize souvenirs, curated selections and community events rather than a broad corporate network.
Do streaming services have late fees?
No. Streaming subscriptions and digital rentals eliminate late fees since you access titles online and do not return physical discs.
When should I rent a physical disc instead of streaming?
Choose a disc if you want bonus features, the highest-quality video/audio on Blu-ray or 4K disc, or if you have limited internet bandwidth for streaming.
What’s the difference between renting and buying digitally?
Renting gives temporary access (typically a 48-72 hour window after you start playback); buying grants permanent digital access tied to your account so you can watch whenever you like.