Tips for Buying Old Movies on DVD

Old movies hold an important place in our history. Through them, you can see the progression of society, technology, fashion, and inter-personal relationships. Without intending to, old movies give us tremendous insight on mankind. From props and set decorations to terminology, words and slang, old movies are a living, breathing link to our past. With so many movies no longer in print, finding old movies on DVD can be very challenging. Movie lovers of all ages should begin building their movie collections now by stuffing them full of as many old movies as they can. Socially impacting movies like, "A Patch of Blue," "A Children's Hour" and, "12 Angry Men" are required movie fare for movie lovers. Movie lovers looking for the roots of today's comedy flicks must get, "Some Like it Hot" and, "Philadelphia Story." Romance movie buffs need, "Casablanca" and, "An Affair to Remember." For those movie lovers looking for noir classics, "Maltese Falcon" and, "Citizen Kane" can not be outdone. So where do you find these must-haves?

Off-line

1. Flea markets and yard sales are great resources to finding out-of-print classic movie DVDs. Most will be used, but some may be unwatched. Since you are buying them in person, you will be able to make sure they are in good condition.

2. Mail order DVD clubs generally offer a large selection of classic movies on DVD. You may not be able to find out-of-print classics, but you will find a surprising number of classics that are still in print.

3. Blockbuster and Hollywood Video. Many movie rental establishments including Blockbuster and Hollywood video sell their used DVDs.

4. Used book stores and record stores often trade (and therefore sell) used DVDs.

5. Thrift stores often get used and new DVDs donated to them.

Online

1. Turner Classic Movies website offers many restored classics. You can find some really obscure old movies on DVD from their website. They also combine many similar movies into box sets.

2. Half.com. Half.com is a giant online yard sales. You can buy new and used DVDs from members at next to nothing.

3. Amazon.com lists both new and used DVDs. Their selection is huge and houses many, many classics.

4. Netflix.com. Much like Blockbuster and Hollywood Video, Netflix.com sells their used DVDs that were previously used for their rental customers.

5. Use Ebay. Much like Half.com, Ebay allows you to buy new and used DVDs cheap from sellers.