Are Your DVDs Disintegrating? Discover How to Protect Your Collection!

If you have a collection of DVDs, you might have heard about DVD rot. This issue affects various types of discs, including CDs and video games. Essentially, over time, discs can break down chemically and become unplayable. One notable case involves Warner Bros. DVDs produced between 2006 and 2009, where many collectors have reported problems.

Recently, a report by Chris Bumbray from JoBlo highlighted the struggles of collectors facing this issue, especially those with Humphrey Bogart and Errol Flynn box sets. This isn’t new news for devoted fans; Spencer Draper, a YouTuber known as Damn Fool Idealistic Crusader, has also discussed these problems in depth since at least late 2021.

Discovering the Problem

Draper and others found that the rot wasn’t uniform across all WB DVDs. The manufacturing code on the inner ring of the disc helps identify which discs are at risk. They traced the problem back to a specific plant in Pennsylvania, called Cinram, which has since closed.

Draper himself has around 5,000-6,000 films and panicked when he learned about the potential issues. He took to checking all his DVDs, realizing that rot can manifest in various ways. He shared that even when scanning or backing up discs, it doesn’t guarantee they’re free of rot; the only way to confirm is by thorough inspection.

After numerous attempts to contact Warner Bros., Draper received replacements for the affected titles, showing that the company has been responsive to complaints.

Warner Bros.’ Response

Warner Bros. acknowledged the issue, stating they’ve been working with customers on replacements for nearly a decade. They ask anyone facing problems to reach out directly. While they do replace affected titles, some might no longer be available, and an alternate title may be offered instead.

Identifying Affected DVDs

So how can you tell if your DVDs are rotting? First, check the copyright year. If your disc was produced between 2006 and 2009, it’s worth investigating further. Look for letters like “IFPI” on the inner ring of the disc. If you see a blue stamp that says “Disc Made in Mexico,” you’re likely in the clear. Draper’s advice is to check your discs by fast-forwarding through the content and extras.

He has compiled a list of affected titles, which can be invaluable for collectors. Some memorable titles, like HBO’s "Tales From the Crypt," are notably affected and hard to find since they aren’t available for digital purchase or streaming.

The Broader Impact

While this issue is concerning, it highlights an anomaly rather than a widespread problem across all DVDs. Sony states that a properly stored DVD should last between 30 to 100 years. Most DVDs from the earlier days remain intact.

Draper mentions that while Blu-ray discs have also faced concerns, they don’t seem as widespread. For example, some Blu-rays from a specific French manufacturer were problematic, but overall, the issues are minimal compared to the DVD rot dilemma.

Interestingly, Criterion once faced a similar situation but was transparent about it, outlining affected titles and offering exchange programs. Many collectors wish Warner Bros. had done the same.

Conclusion

Despite the DVD rot issue, keeping physical media is still a reliable way to ensure access to your favorite films. However, collectors need to remain vigilant about certain titles. Sadly, the WB DVD rot case serves as a cautionary tale for physical media lovers, pointing to a hidden trouble within a beloved collection.

For more insights on this topic, you can read reports from IGN and JoBlo.

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