Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend – Episode: "The Last DVD Store"

Hosted by Conan O’Brien, this episode of "Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend" delves into the nostalgic and challenging world of DVD rental stores through an engaging conversation with James, a duty manager at Alice in Video Land in Christchurch, New Zealand.

1. Introducing James and Alice in Video Land

[01:14]
Conan O’Brien welcomes James, expressing excitement about meeting someone who manages one of the last remaining DVD rental stores. James introduces himself as the duty manager at Alice in Video Land, emphasizing the store's unique position in the modern digital age.

James:
"The Probably the last DVD higher place in the country, if not the world. So. Oh, the name is Alice in Video Land."
[02:10]

2. The Operation of Alice in Video Land

James explains that Alice in Video Land specializes exclusively in DVDs, refraining from selling videos. The store is complemented by two small cinemas, which help sustain its operations by attracting movie enthusiasts who may rent DVDs after watching films at the theaters.

James:
"We have two cinemas, which definitely helps keep the place afloat. So we've got like two small cinemas that, you know, people come out to and then they can rent a DVD on their way out if they want."
[02:43]

3. Navigating the Streaming Era

Conan and James discuss the dwindling customer base due to the rise of streaming services. While the store still attracts older customers, the shift towards digital consumption poses significant challenges.

James:
"Old people tend to be blunt. So, you know, occasionally someone will come in and return one and say, I just found this online so I didn't need to watch it."
[16:03]

Conan humorously remarks on the situation:

Conan:
"That's a big seismic change. It's like someone coming to the stables in like the first Model T and saying, I won't be coming here anymore."
[16:24]

4. The Store’s Film Selection and Management

A significant portion of the conversation centers on James's boss, Peter, and his unconventional taste in movies. Peter's preference for obscure and less popular films has led to conflicts over the store's "Wall of 500 Greatest Movies."

James:
"If I was to name them, you probably wouldn't have even heard of them because they're so obscure and boring. So, like Ray and Liz is a British one."
[06:22]

Conan pokes fun at one of Peter's favored films:

Conan:
"That is called Irish pornography. A woman peeling potatoes."
[06:51]

James defends the selection humorously:

James:
"I totally arranged that kind of peep show."
[06:55]

Despite these quirky choices, James acknowledges the difficulty in balancing Peter's tastes with what appeals to a broader audience.

James:
"It's pure action. But, you know, there's nothing to ponder. Like someone peeling potatoes is so..."
[07:45]

5. Aspiring Filmmaker Dreams

Beyond managing the store, James shares his aspirations to follow in the footsteps of renowned New Zealand filmmakers like Taika Waititi and Jane Campion. He hopes to carve out his own path in writing and directing, leveraging his experience with the extensive collection of films at Alice in Video Land.

James:
"My aspirations are to, I guess, follow in the footsteps of Taika Waititi or Jane Campion and become a writer director myself."
[20:59]

Conan encourages James, suggesting a potential collaboration to boost his filmmaking career:

Conan:
"If I could be of help, maybe we could make a short film with me. Right?"
[22:10]

6. Daily Life and Personal Touches

The conversation takes a lighter turn as James introduces Conan to his cats, MJ and Taonga. James shares anecdotes about their arrival and how they add companionship to his life, especially in the solitary world of film management.

James:
"Their names are MJ and Taonga. Taonga is a Maori name. I inherited them from my neighbors who, when they moved out, these cats were always at mine. And so they just said, do you want to keep them?"
[28:37]

Conan humorously teases James about his feline friends:

Conan:
"Cat incest porn now at Alice in Video Land."
[28:35]

7. Final Thoughts and Goodbyes

As the episode wraps up, James expresses gratitude for the conversation, highlighting how Conan's podcast has been a beacon of light during challenging times.

James:
"Your podcast has been a continual source of light heartedness and relief. And you in particular, Conan, as much as I don't want to single out, thank you."
[27:11]

Conan reciprocates the sentiment, expressing genuine admiration for James and his dedication to keeping the DVD store alive.

Conan:
"James, you seem like a very nice fellow, and I would relish a chance to see one of the world's last DVD rental stores before it closes in 40 minutes forever."
[25:42]

Notable Quotes:

• Conan O’Brien: "That is called Irish pornography. A woman peeling potatoes."
  [06:51]

• James: "We are very people pleasing."
  [04:54]

• Conan O’Brien: "I'm telling you, people like it. Hey, you want a little peekeroo?"
  [25:45]

• James: "Like records, right? Physical media records made a comeback."
  [16:45]

• Conan O’Brien: "You have the gift of the Gabby."
  [18:35]

Insights and Conclusions:

This episode highlights the resilience and passion required to sustain traditional forms of media in an increasingly digital world. James's commitment to maintaining Alice in Video Land serves as a homage to the bygone era of physical media, underscoring the cultural and personal significance these stores hold for both operators and loyal customers. Through candid dialogue and humor, Conan and James explore the intersection of nostalgia, business challenges, and personal dreams, offering listeners a heartfelt glimpse into the life of one of the last DVD rental stores.

For those who cherish the tangible experience of renting and viewing films, this episode is a poignant reminder of the evolving landscape of media consumption and the enduring spirit of those who strive to keep traditional formats alive.