Things You'll Need:
- Internet access
- a rental membership
-
Step 1
Do your homework: Scribble down a few titles you have been meaning
to rent for a long time, or check with some friends for some
recommendations. Not sure about your friends' selections? Visit
www.rottentomatoes.com to see if the critics agree. Just don't enter
the store stone cold. Staring at an array of DVD titles, particularly
if the store stacks then with the spines facing you, won't likely
spark your critical faculties. -
Step 2
Be suspicious. For every box office hit you'll see plenty of films
you've never heard of before. There could be a solid reason why. Many
movies go directly to video because they weren't good enough to cut it
at the local multiplex. Sometimes these films can be hidden gems.
Usually, they're lumps of coal just waiting for a naïve renter to dig
up. -
Step 3
Watch those quotes. If a film proclaims "Two Thumbs Up" or earns
praise from the L.A. Times, you could be in for a great film. Beware
the lesser known critics, either toiling away in a tiny market or just
someone who eagerly embraces most new films. Not all quotations are
the same. -
Step 4
Beware of copycats. Often second or third-rate films will mimic the
design style of a hit film on their DVD covers. So if a movie looks
like a sequel or remake of an established hit, it could simply be the
marketing folks have aped the look of the original. Don't fall for it.
It's a safe bet the film is infinitely inferior. -
Step 5
From the key grip who worked on … : Don't fall for vague marketing
pitches like "from the producers of "Big Hit Movie." If it's the same
writer or director, it could be a good sign. But producer credits bear
little impact on the quality of the film you're considering for the
night.
