For me, I am very picky with steelbooks. I look at how much it costs compared to the cost of the regular version, how much the artwork appeals to me specifically (and how much better I like it than the artwork on the standard version), and of course what the movie itself means to me. If a steelbook satisfies these criteria in a way that seems worth a purchase for me, I will buy it. It does give me a sense of joy and appreciation every time I pull the steelbook out to watch the movie and I can see that beautiful artwork!
Absolutely. Certain people are very obsessive on steelbooks. Of course, how someone chooses to spend their own money is their own business, but if you’re spending hundreds on 10 copies of Iron Man, including copies with foreign slips, you surely have to assess if it’s really worth it.
I look at steelbooks as an investment, good store of value so to speak. Buying 5-10$ steelbooks adds little value, collecting rear ones can be a good investment.
We got the same reasoning Sam. As you said I only buy movies I would actually watch a second time as there is a lot of trash on the movie market these days... Depending on how much I like the movie I consider buying the steelbook version. Also, I would never pay 2x the price for the steelbook so ye.
Exactly the same for me. And while there are still a lot of movies I want to own, it feels nice to know that I don’t have the urge to buy anything steelbook. But that I have to like the movie AND artwork on the steelbook
My bad habit that I stopped doing recently was buying blu rays just because they were cheap. A few months ago I kind of stood back and realized that my shelves were becoming like Netflix, lots of crap with a few good movies mixed in. I started the process of getting rid of them but this weekend I’m going on a purge and am going to sell probably 50% of my collection
I try to target films I want to watch uncompressed in the best quality, but I can definitely see how tempting it is with some of the prices going around 😅.
@@princesmith8008 I've only just started collecting, mainly 4k. The majority are the normal slipcover versions. My only steelbook edition I have is Alita 4k. Early days but I'm going to stick to films I know I'll watch and avoid the impulse purchase 😅
@@mig1017 Yeah man, that's the right way to do it. When it comes to buying physical media in 4k, I only get movies which I *really* like or the ones which look and sound great (but they still need to be more than just eye-candy). But as far as steelbooks are concerned, those purchases are much more rare to be honest. As in, I'll get it for titles which are not just good but they also need to be among my favourites lol.
Since getting into Criterion and boutique, steel books have lost their luster but I still get some, especially if there is no boutique blu. I always make it a point, though, that I enjoy the movie. I had to get The Wind Rises and Secret Life of Arrietty, but I refuse to get Earwig. I think for me, it goes Criterion - boutique - steel - then regular releases.
Yeah, same order for me. I don't really buy them anymore unless its a movie I LOVE. I do have a couple custom cases that I will probably never ditch though.
I've always HATED blue cases (still do), they look terribly cheap, and all over the place with their covers. Steelbooks are standing in a perfect straight line, looking better together, than they do separately :) It's never a matter of exclusivity for me, so I've never bought a movie for a crazy price. I mainly collected movies in a form of steelbooks or collectors edition, or boutique label editions, or nothing at all. I can be okay with a nice slipcover and I repackaged many of my blue cases with clear ones (like Arrow uses), so my collection is still mainly blue-case-free. I don't hate standard black 4k cases, so it's not an issue anymore :)
I hate also blue cases!! I don’t understand why Indicator ships some standard Blu ray editions with blue cases!! As I paying a product of a boutique label!!!
I have criteria for steel books 1. Has to be a movie I really loved/respected 2. I have to love the steel book art 3. Rule 1 can be ignored if the steel book costs less than what I'd pay for the Blu-ray/4k copy
I love steelbooks I don’t think I ever could do that. I wish my entire collection was Steel. To each their own, great video . Appreciate your opinions.
Steelbook collector here and I absolutely agree with your notion. Am considering selling some of my own steelbooks myself. However I still collect certain titles, more specifically if they’re from filmmakers or actors I greatly admire, or stuff that I watched and really loved growing up - the stuff that brings good memories.
Agreed. I have more than 200 SteelBooks and in the process of selling most of them. I’d much rather spend my money on life experiences rather than material possessions. Reminds me that saying: “The things you own end up owning you.”
@@1stMarDiv4341What for?you have an amazing collection, Steelbook is the best, I'm just starting to collect, it's a pity there is no art house movies in Steelbooks
Hey Elliot. This has been a bit of a wake up call for me and my unhealthy collecting habits. I’m going to need to have a long hard think about things. Thank you for sharing.
@@johnnydarko2736 I don,t see the point in steelbook dvd/blu-ray cases TBH. They can get easily scratched+they look abit bland. The cardboard sleeves are so much better looking. And you also get holographic and fancy wording and lettering almost as if out of the case itself is coming out of you. You don,t get that sensation with asteelbook film
@@bedfordshiremodeller4491 😧😧😧😧 I don’t understand you people. Better looking?? Absolutely not. At least with steelbooks I take care of them. Regular cases idgaf, I just throw em.
Good for you steel books are a rip-off and a waste of money not only do they damage easily they will start to rust over the years. All that money you have spent and you don't even get a quarterback from them when you sell them on, never mind lessons learnt from this for yourself and other people as well. Just pick up what you want none of this FOMO nonsense most of the time once you have viewed a film once you will not go back to it probably for another couple of years so what's the bloody point! My friend, there is more to life than plastic discs and steel books! Don't forget the best things in life are FREE! - Stay Safe - Mark.
If it’s at a decent price I still choose a Steelbook over those Blue or Black cheap looking plastic cases used for Blu-ray & 4K. Sure a Steelbook may get dents but I remember accidentally stepping on both a Blu-ray case & Steelbook that were both on the floor on separate occasions and the Blu-Ray case broke in two whereas the Steelbook just got a dent
Dear Elliot, thanks a lot for sharing your experience and thoughts on collecting. I find all these reflections very interesting and encouraging for people like me that want to shake off hoarding habits. Very inspiring indeed, especially when you mentioned how hard was for you to give up and get rid of your steelbook editions. I hope I can get the courage to follow your example. Cheers!!
All physical media is pretty “cosmetic” for me in my opinion… I like the look and feel of even a crtierion, steelbook or standard bluray. I know some discs are done better and I love high quality but for me more than anything I just love the collecting aspect and the feeling of holding it in my hands. It’s very textural, and steelbook is the best it can feel in my personal opinion. Just so sleek and smooth and the weight of it.. can’t describe it all but it just feels really great.
Absolutely. Nothing like a physical copy with beautiful artwork of your favorite film. I can just look at my collection. He made a point that you can only see the spine in the shelf but I've made my shelf where they can stand face front so l can see the artwork.
I started to fall into that trap of needing steelbooks and limited editions and so on. Then after a while it finally hit me that it shouldn't be about the packaging, it should be about the movie itself.
A bit of both in my opinion. If it’s a ‘special’ film to you or part of a series that you love, it makes sense (in my opinion) to fork out the extra for a special edition steelbook case. If it’s any and every release that you end up buying, it becomes an unhealthy obsession. Looking at the forum HiDefNinja, there are certain members who spend nearly each and every day on the site, saying how they’ll be buying what seems to be every single release, often to the point where they don’t even like the design but have to buy it just to add it to the set.
In times we have , it’s not even important to buy physical media anymore , when you can stream most films anyway . So when I buy me a Blu-ray , I wanna have the best possible version they have and the cover is a very important part of the whole deal . I am allways very happy when there was a little booklet or some cards or something else included ( not talking about a figure ) So the package is very important , at least for me
Although I’ve a huge SteelBook collection, I totally agree with what you’re saying here. Having said that I still love Steelbooks, just feels so premium. I won’t be getting rid of the ones that I’ve in my collection but will only be buying the selected ones going forward. If you don’t mind me asking, which platform did you use to sell your Steelbooks?
If you sell on ebay, expect this question every time: 'Have you still got the J card?". I used to chuck them out, but now have started keeping them in a special box.
I too chased Steelbooks until I came to the same realization. They are delicate and damage easily. Steel is suppose to be hard and durable. Steelbooks are like glass or thin aluminum. Kept the few I bought for the artwork but ceased hemorrhaging my wallet.
Think you made a big mistake mate, steelbooks are an investment, literally one of the few things you can buy and know it's going to go up in value, I buy steelbooks for movies I don't even like just cause i know its rare, but if I do buy a steelbook I want to watch on a regular basis I just buy a regular 4k or bluray copy, if you don't wanna invest in steelbooks anymore that's fine, but the basis of your idea is that the steelbook has no real function other than looking pretty, and that's just not true, I guarantee if you still had some of those steelbooks today they'd be worth a ton more
Great video dude, i’m in a very similar boat - used to absolutely love picking up super rare steelbooks, and hunting them down from overseas etc.. but at a certain point I realised I wasn’t actually doing anything with them. They usually just sat on a shelf and eventually I just stopped altogether. Now i’m much more about picking up films I care about, and less about whatever cool steelbook there might be 🙏🏻
While I partly agree with you about some things, I would like to point out one reason I love steelbooks & the reason why I started collecting them, simply because I truly truly love film & movies, I just I just think a $200 million dollar movie or even a $15,000 movie deserves something better than a 10 cent ugly plastic case & steelbooks do that. Film has so much love put into it at times, I just think this kind of art form that has so many people put their love, sweat, & tears into making deserves beautiful packing if people want.
Every once in a while, I pick up a steelbook. Night of the Living Dead for example has a beautifully designed one (glittery green font, great artwork; ARTHAUS 4k Edition).
Interesting, I'm the opposite, I've stopped getting plastics after I was shocked at how bad the depreciation was when I wanted to sell some of them. If a title I want is available on steelbook, I'll get the steelbook. The latest 4K Unforgiven is the jewel of my modest collection at the moment. Looking forward to adding a couple of Hitchcock classics that are coming out this autumn. Mulholland Drive will be my next gem on display.
Some steelbooks go up in value but some don't. plus, price going in is high. I only buy them used cheap or if they are the same price as a new movie. If I need the movie and like the artwork. The price is what turns me off.
@@MentalDeviant They usually go down less as they usually limited or are released in waves. So people who are egar to get them will pay full price or more for a used version.
I'd only recommend steel books for movies that are apart of you, aka top 5/ top 10 material. It's ridiculous to me to hoard steel books for just the art. The media has to be up there on your favorites to justify otherwise you go broke, lol.
I am to a point that I do what you say, only going physical for the stuff that is my top, and not only for steelbooks (films in my case). Also videogames, for example the top 5-10 games that will be in my hearth forever on the platforms I have/had, the top 5-10 music CDs or whatever with the same thought involved etc. Rest all digital. It's like making very small collections. I also think this way, that stuff feels way more special because it really defines you. Can't feel the same accumulating "junk" for the sake of having more and more, or just having a chaotic big collection. I guess at the end it's a matter of taste or different visions about collecting though.
I agree with everything you're saying but.....I still love them! They're a cool, fun, unique way of collecting blu-rays rather than the same boring blue cases with ads, logos, and unnecessary info. The best thing to do is to be selective of which steelbooks to collect and also which digipack, digibook, and other cases. Plus they usually have unique artwork that the regular blue cases don't have. For example, the upcoming The Thing 4k steelbook, which I'll be purchasing on day 1. Thanks for your video though.
Agreed James. For a few movies I really enjoyed and didn't get an official release for the Steelbook I've even had customs made for- Tomorrow War & Puss in Boots Last Wish steelbooks as they are fun movies that hit a big note with me!
I still collect DVDs, and VHS 📼 believe it or not... Like, what happens when your wifi goes out? You can no longer stream y'know. Also , owning the movie, you get to own the case , artwork, and most importantly the actual film..... And it's the perfect time too because on ebay I can buy a used DVD that's refurbished for like $5 bux.
I’m a collector and I can safely say, it’s a mugs game. Re-release after re-release of the same movies just with fancier packaging. As cool as they are it is still a mugs game. Movie studios are laughing all the way to the bank as they charge us silly money. Personally I don’t buy multiple copies of the same movie just to have nicer cases. I just look online and find my favourite version and just buy the one copy. I mean how many blu Ray steelbooks are there for John Carpenters The Thing, too bloody many.
It just seems that what ever you are collecting now days is very expensive. Vinyls, movies, video games, or bottles of whisky. Prices are just crazy. For example if I import one blue underground 4k disc from us, after custom fees and postage costs final price is about 75$. Is it worth it? Absolutely not! Do I buy them? All the time! Why do we do it? Because we collectors are all mad and like shiny things no one really needs!
Personally I hate these modern artwork for old movies, they don't match the 80's 90's style, colors are not the right style, they seem just glorified fan pieces, for an old movie I want the original art/poster that the creator intended
I don't own any steelbooks so far. It's funny to hear they are so easy to get damaged. If they were actual steel that would mean pretty sturdy, right...? Sounds more like tin foil...
I once drove 3 hours to go to the only store that had an Interstellar steelbook and when I finally got back home it was split in half down the middle hahaha. Pain. They are definitely more delicate than you'd think. They can get dinged up and have dents before even bringing them home. I think they're also kind of a cash grab by the companies. I completely agree with this video. I might still buy the occasional steelbook in the future but I'll certainly never go out of my way again.
I only get the Steelbook Edition if I REALLY love the film, or if the price is extremely low and the cover art looks irresistible but even then, I need to atleast like or admire the film.
A lot of drama I heard in your video , I respect your decision but, all what your transmites here was excuses ... I have arround 1500 movies almost all’s of my movie are steelbook .. only one time I get damage and they sent another one , and about dents or scratches I just have to pay attention and asked the condition of the item , in my experience all my steelbook are very good condition.. I love movies and my movies are organized and protected with plastic case protected, your argument about the why to have beautiful artwork if I have to show only the spinal ? Really ? Looks like if I will say : why you have the real disc if you will hide in the 4K player if you can have digital ? Sound ridiculous right? If you tell me you stopped to buy steelbook because you want to safe money , I will take it ... but all what I heard here are excuses ...we buy steelbook because it’s beautiful artwork and real metal and if we are real collectors is because we will take care of the item , but if you Change your mind in the future , you can sell it in good price for another colectora , if you decide to sell the regular plastic movies will be hard to get good money for those movies .. sorry for my words .. I just ....
Buying a steelbook for me comes down to is the cover cool to me, and are there any features that I don't have. Extra features sadly are becoming more limited, sans Anniversary sets. The generic covers for Blu ray discs these days are so generic. The steelbooks and boxsets remind me more of the days of VHS when a box would catch your eye.
JUST BUY STEELBOOKS FOR YOUR ABSOLUTE ALL TIME FAVOURITE MOVIES. FOR ME PERSONALLY, ITS ALL THE STAR WARS FILMS/TV SHOWS AND GREASE. THATS IT FOR ME, AND I LOVE THE STEELBOOKS ❤
They're made of tin and get damaged soooo easily. The first thing I do when I get one is hold it up to the light and inspect it for faults - like that's not fun at all why would I want this thing to obsess over? For me it's about the MOVIES and getting the best quality on disc. Not knocking anyone who collects steelbooks but they aren't for me.
Steelbooks are pretty but I would i would worry about them getting damaged. Plus, buying the new is a gamble because you don’t know what damage may be under the j card until you open it.
I don't, but still will buy steel over requaler, also I don't buy both version, either steel or regular case, not collector, just prefer oening physical media over renting digital
Rarity becomes a fetishitic mania among collectors. It is also surprising to note how a thing is made 'rare' and 'scare' even before it is out in market. This is the power of such subjective baits in the false and illusive world of the corporate capitalism.
It's a great way to look at things. I still struggle sticking to it from time to time, but it's made my collecting a lot more fun. Cheers for watching!
Collecting steelbooks is a very addicting habit. There is one major pain, in that you can't get every title as steelbook. Sometimes even sequels in a franchise, of which only the first titles get a steel release. That is the most frustrating part for me. I personally sold most of my steellbooks lately, for financial reasons. But having one room filled with wall to wall steelbook-shelves is one thing i still want to have someday 😁
I completely agree. Very addictive. I hate that series thing also which is why I didn’t get that Harry Potter release cause I feel like that’s the only one coming out. But with that said. I love collecting them and can’t wait for that wall to wall of steels.
At 2:50….That’s what I’m talkin about. I love that. My problem with collecting steels is that I want the best collection. So I would buy movies that I was not interested in but because it’s a steel I would buy them just to grow my collection. Now I’m trying to get out of that and get the ones I really want. That’s what I gotta try to get pass. I thought about stopping also because of the price. Very expensive!!!
Interesting point on sequels. I'm refusing the get the Back To The Future or Star Trek compilations because I won't have turkeys in my collection. I want BTTF 1, and Star Trek 2 only - but these aren't available on their own!
Well done for getting rid, pretty much lost interest in steelbooks these days too. First started picking them up when Play began releasing them and the prices were generally reasonable. Once Zavvi got into the steelbook game the prices started to creep up and the number being released increased too. Unfortunately quality control seemed to disappear and I lost count of the number of damaged ones I had to send back for replacement or accept a discount on because it was sold out. Once the prices shot up with 4K (which I still haven't adopted) I thought enough is enough. Now I'll only pick one up if it contains something not available elsewhere, for example it was the only way to get the B&W version of Parasite for a while. I've also noticed some older ones on my shelf are getting rust patches on the spines, which is pretty rubbish.
Although I don’t collect as many steelbooks as I used to (when I had 800 in the collection) I still like to pick up the occasional release, the recent Star Wars 4k steelbooks are beautiful and have roughly 300 now in the collection.
Currently I’ve gone in the opposite direction. My collection to too large to continue collecting basic everyday Blu-rays and 4K discs. I’m only buying limited editions and other unique types of media.
Only get the steelbook IF it's one of your favorite movies you want to watch for years to come. AND IF you like the artwork. Otherwise its just spending more money for the same product.
There was a phase when blurays and DVDs were being released with some truly horrendous cover art, which was especially frustrating when the film had an amazing theatrical poster. Added to the bad artwork you would have 2 age certification on the front, maybe a tagline, and sometimes one or more critic quotes or star ratings. I started getting steelbooks simply to get away from that. At best you had the poster art on the front, or at least you would have some art that was equally impressive. There's some God-awful steelbooks out there but there's also some great ones like the Drew Struzan Indiana Jones and Back to the Future releases. Or the 50th anniversary Star Trek collection of movies. One problem I have is that my steelbooks often end up rusting, so I always have that kn the back of my head when buying them, that it's not going to be a permanent thing. Luckily that phase of bad bluray covers seems to have passed and we are getting so many people releasing blurays in regular amaray cases but with the poster art reproduced on the front.
Got into collecting steelbooks a couple years ago and now I see some that I prefer the original artwork better but just wanted to have another steelbook. Still collect em but only get em if I’m a fan of the art. I totally get you
Man, I used to collect loads of VHS tapes, DVD's, Blu-rays and started on 4K. I collected vinyl records, CD's, action figures and comics. My shelves were resplendent and much envied. Somewhere around turning 40 I just got bored of it. So weird.
I have the same exact collection of everything you mentioned. If I was to get a house, I'd definitely get a movie room and display all you mentioned including my favorite film posters.
Great video pal! I also get little joy from steelbooks. I have about 30 steelbooks total, and will probably keep them because they are of films I enjoy and the hassle and stress of selling something as delicate as a steelbook and mailing it to someone might end up being more hassle than it's worth lol cheers for an honest look at collecting
So glad to see you're back at it Elliot! Ex-Magic collector here, I was able to get out by switching to collecting vinyl, blurays, and comics instead, so I'm not sure I came out ahead... lol
Yup I agree with you..most of my #steelbooks I wouldn't even open..what a waste of money..now I'm trying to get rid of all of them.. thanks for the upload! #cheers
I stopped buying Blu-rays to buy steel books Blu-rays, stopped buying all Blu-rays to buy 4K and 4K steel books and now I only buy regular 4K and specialty Blu-rays.
Yeah I slowed down on collecting steelbooks because they're impossible to keep in good shape and they're definitely very delicate. I only pick up limited editions when the artwork grabs my interest or if they're cheaply priced. This is always an interesting topic for collectors and thanks for making this video!
Hey man I agree with you completely. I am now as well getting rid of a lot of blubray, in particular the one with normal blue cases, I just don’t like how they look on the shelf’s, when i see does vídeos of people with hundred and hundreds of blubray like a video store it just looks awful, not trying to offend anyone if that your thing great, but why collect movie you know they are bad or that you will never watch again. I am just keeping my favourites films that I now I will definitely re watch and criterion because does look beautiful
@@ElliotCoen I am not that old but at least nowadays I don't have much problem with rare type cards (but also I use sleves and rarely pay any extra for rares)
To me, two are the main issues that bothers me with steelbooks...First, they obviously get easily damaged, especially scratches on the surface of the case, if you are careless and second the clips that open and close the cases sometines are a pain in the ass.They don' t close completely.
Not with you on this at all. Steelbooks are premium packaging, infinitely better than plastic cases, and well worth picking up. Forgive me but I also think you’ve kind of overthought things a bit. Why did you feel a pressure to display the steelbooks? What’s wrong with just keeping them on a shelf with other cases? And why sell everything you’ve bought rather than just stop buying more?
Certainly. I used to want to collect EVERYTHING. Books, movies, records, video games. There's only so much time, money, and space in our lives. We cannot possibly do everything in life, which is why our choices matter. Thanks for watching!
When I started, I brought them regardless of liking the film OR the artwork. There’s an old version of Twelve Monkeys as a good example - had Nareen the film, the artwork is dull, yet I decided to pay a premium price, just ‘because’. Certain collectors online are obsessive to the point that I think it’s a mental illness.
I was saying something the other day to a friend about my recently deceased brother's obsession with collecting - I am not against collecting, I do it myself, but at the same time it's important to know when to let go. I am glad you have pretty much come to my same observation, albeit from a different angle. I personally am very careful to pay it forward to someone who can truly appreciate and enjoy something I am letting go - which I am sure you do too.
Steelbooks are nice but they damage SO easily that I have been scared to buy any lately because they are usually dented. I have ocd and want them in perfect condition.
One reason to consider a steelbook is if it's from a very indie label. Some years ago on Synapse Films' podcast, it was mentioned that 4K transfers (which Synapse puts a ton of care into) are very expensive, so the steelbooks and LE releases help them JUST to recoup their expenses. Then, after those all sell, they can start with the regular releases and make a little profit on the product. So I would buy a steelbook from them just to support them because I love what they do.
Well done Elliot. Last Steelbook I chased was La La Land. It was $44.99 CAD and after a week...I knew I had a problem as I don't even have a 4K player. You do You. Peace from Ontario Canada!
I only buy steel books of my very favorite movies or if I find them at a great price. Even if I can't display them it's nice knowing that when I go and grab the movie to watch it I can admire it and know that I own a unique copy of one of my favorite films. I only own about 10-12 steel books though.
I don' collect steelbooks. Only a few that has special meanings in my memories. No more than 6 steelbooks on my walls. The same with blue-rays... FY I... I used tiny magnets with command strips to display my steelbooks. Much better looking on wall than shelving them.
It's funny , I have hundreds of steelbook and stopped collecting them about 3 or 4 years ago but the most recent one I just got was the total recall 4k. Amazing artwork.
Some people collect every movie, some people collect slipcovers, some people collect boutique, and some people collect steelbooks. Personally, I ONLY collect movies I absolutely love. So, since my collection is so small, I like them being in expensive steelbook cases. I'd rather own 200 rare steelbooks, than 1000 mediocre movies.
I only buy steelbooks of movies that are very important to me. I was going crazy buying them for a while, but one day, I just stopped and asked myself, “Wth are you doing, dude??” It’s ridiculous. So, I sold a bunch of them off. I only have about 20 steelbooks in my collection now, and that is exactly the right number, in my humble opinion. The rest of my movies I buy in standard blu ray editions, and I place the disc and artwork into a brand new Viva Elite case. Works better that way, and I think the Viva Elite’s look and feel fabulous.
I love steelbooks, but if i don't like the artwork i don't buy. And i only get steelbooks for movies i'd call 8+/10 for me. I just love as i curate my blu-ray collection smaller, a lot of them get updated to steelbook. The spine is what's visible most of the time, but i try to rotate 1 or 2 into a stand beside my tv every week. I only have 1 damaged one, and walmart sold it to me that way. I also love my steelbooks for getting autographs of my fav actors. Basically im an artist who appreciates having pretty versions 😂
I pretty much gave up collecting myself and sold the steelbooks. The only one I kept was my Lost in Translation one as that is going for about £100. I also play Magic but am a casual player, I only started a few months back. I gave up collecting films and sold most of them, but I am starting back up but with DVDs, not to collect but to use for my education as a filmmaker, mostly old classic films from the 30s and 40s. I am displaying some of my favourite editions again in my room of my only steelbook and my favourite box sets like The arrow version of the apartment, the studio canal fabric copy of The graduate and Criterion's Grand Budapest Hotel.
I like getting my favorite movies in the best edition. And I know there's unique box sets, but the most obtainable prestine versions are steelbooks imo. If you just want the watch of the movie, I understand getting something cheaper. But I feel steels, 9 xs out of 10, have the best artwork on them. Also, I get protectors for mine, so no scratches or dust shelf ware. I love steels.
I added just under 160 SteelBooks to my collection over the course of a year (won a major personal injury lawsuit, so I indulged). I’m already over them, and slowly selling most (keeping a few sentimental ones). They’re simply too easy to damage. I handle them like a newborn baby and use quality protective cases, but it’s like every time I go to pick one up there’s a fresh blemish. Also, as I’ve gotten older, material possessions mean far less to me. I’d much rather spend my money on life experiences like traveling, going to concerts, hiking, etc. Most of all, they don’t really make me happy. I’ll buy a new one, get that dopamine hit when it arrives, and then it’s gone.
You need steelbooks for the upcoming (potential/unlikely) apocalypse, when all the wifi has gone and everyone is quarantined with no entertainment and bored to death, you won’t be. Lol I’m a weirdo.
For me, I am very picky with steelbooks. I look at how much it costs compared to the cost of the regular version, how much the artwork appeals to me specifically (and how much better I like it than the artwork on the standard version), and of course what the movie itself means to me. If a steelbook satisfies these criteria in a way that seems worth a purchase for me, I will buy it. It does give me a sense of joy and appreciation every time I pull the steelbook out to watch the movie and I can see that beautiful artwork!
Absolutely. Certain people are very obsessive on steelbooks. Of course, how someone chooses to spend their own money is their own business, but if you’re spending hundreds on 10 copies of Iron Man, including copies with foreign slips, you surely have to assess if it’s really worth it.
I look at steelbooks as an investment, good store of value so to speak. Buying 5-10$ steelbooks adds little value, collecting rear ones can be a good investment.
Def agreed
We got the same reasoning Sam. As you said I only buy movies I would actually watch a second time as there is a lot of trash on the movie market these days... Depending on how much I like the movie I consider buying the steelbook version. Also, I would never pay 2x the price for the steelbook so ye.
Exactly the same for me. And while there are still a lot of movies I want to own, it feels nice to know that I don’t have the urge to buy anything steelbook. But that I have to like the movie AND artwork on the steelbook
My bad habit that I stopped doing recently was buying blu rays just because they were cheap. A few months ago I kind of stood back and realized that my shelves were becoming like Netflix, lots of crap with a few good movies mixed in. I started the process of getting rid of them but this weekend I’m going on a purge and am going to sell probably 50% of my collection
Did you actually want to see those films or was it just the price?
I try to target films I want to watch uncompressed in the best quality, but I can definitely see how tempting it is with some of the prices going around 😅.
@@mig1017 So have you bought any steelbooks?
@@princesmith8008 I've only just started collecting, mainly 4k. The majority are the normal slipcover versions. My only steelbook edition I have is Alita 4k. Early days but I'm going to stick to films I know I'll watch and avoid the impulse purchase 😅
@@mig1017 Yeah man, that's the right way to do it. When it comes to buying physical media in 4k, I only get movies which I *really* like or the ones which look and sound great (but they still need to be more than just eye-candy).
But as far as steelbooks are concerned, those purchases are much more rare to be honest. As in, I'll get it for titles which are not just good but they also need to be among my favourites lol.
Since getting into Criterion and boutique, steel books have lost their luster but I still get some, especially if there is no boutique blu. I always make it a point, though, that I enjoy the movie. I had to get The Wind Rises and Secret Life of Arrietty, but I refuse to get Earwig. I think for me, it goes Criterion - boutique - steel - then regular releases.
Same.
I have to catch myself from needlessly spending on steelbooks if the movie isn't a favorite. Even then, they gotta be relatively cheap lol
Yeah, same order for me. I don't really buy them anymore unless its a movie I LOVE. I do have a couple custom cases that I will probably never ditch though.
Same, already had a copy of The Wind Rises but when I saw that beautiful steel book in Best Buy I had to get it.
I've always HATED blue cases (still do), they look terribly cheap, and all over the place with their covers. Steelbooks are standing in a perfect straight line, looking better together, than they do separately :) It's never a matter of exclusivity for me, so I've never bought a movie for a crazy price. I mainly collected movies in a form of steelbooks or collectors edition, or boutique label editions, or nothing at all. I can be okay with a nice slipcover and I repackaged many of my blue cases with clear ones (like Arrow uses), so my collection is still mainly blue-case-free. I don't hate standard black 4k cases, so it's not an issue anymore :)
@derekbd Criterion cases are the absolute best.
I hate also blue cases!! I don’t understand why Indicator ships some standard Blu ray editions with blue cases!! As I paying a product of a boutique label!!!
Doesn't bother me at all but I prefer the clear cases. I hate the 4k black cases though
They should've switched to white clear cases after the format war was over. We're stuck with them only because of that.
STEELBOOKS FTW
I have criteria for steel books
1. Has to be a movie I really loved/respected
2. I have to love the steel book art
3. Rule 1 can be ignored if the steel book costs less than what I'd pay for the Blu-ray/4k copy
I love steelbooks I don’t think I ever could do that. I wish my entire collection was Steel. To each their own, great video . Appreciate your opinions.
Steelbook collector here and I absolutely agree with your notion. Am considering selling some of my own steelbooks myself. However I still collect certain titles, more specifically if they’re from filmmakers or actors I greatly admire, or stuff that I watched and really loved growing up - the stuff that brings good memories.
@@captainhowdy1559he says why if you pay attention to the video.
Agreed. I have more than 200 SteelBooks and in the process of selling most of them. I’d much rather spend my money on life experiences rather than material possessions.
Reminds me that saying: “The things you own end up owning you.”
@@1stMarDiv4341What for?you have an amazing collection, Steelbook is the best, I'm just starting to collect, it's a pity there is no art house movies in Steelbooks
I stopped because the artwork was becoming more and more lazy.
Hey Elliot. This has been a bit of a wake up call for me and my unhealthy collecting habits. I’m going to need to have a long hard think about things. Thank you for sharing.
🤣
This is me with cameras and lenses but I ended up selling more than half of my collection
Best I ever done was stop buying things that could make me stressed over a silly hairline scratch or worrying about them getting scuffed
Never give up, you must get all the steel books ever made, don’t disappoint me
Steelbooks are slowly becoming a thing of the past thanks to people who say they arent worth more plus the constant arriving damaged factors.
@@johnnydarko2736 I don,t see the point in steelbook dvd/blu-ray cases TBH. They can get easily scratched+they look abit bland. The cardboard sleeves are so much better looking. And you also get holographic and fancy wording and lettering almost as if out of the case itself is coming out of you. You don,t get that sensation with asteelbook film
I’M on it
@@johnnydarko2736 they are worth a lot more… been selling a lot of them too!
@@bedfordshiremodeller4491 😧😧😧😧 I don’t understand you people. Better looking?? Absolutely not. At least with steelbooks I take care of them. Regular cases idgaf, I just throw em.
Good for you steel books are a rip-off and a waste of money not only do they damage easily they will start to rust over the years. All that money you have spent and you don't even get a quarterback from them when you sell them on, never mind lessons learnt from this for yourself and other people as well. Just pick up what you want none of this FOMO nonsense most of the time once you have viewed a film once you will not go back to it probably for another couple of years so what's the bloody point! My friend, there is more to life than plastic discs and steel books! Don't forget the best things in life are FREE! - Stay Safe - Mark.
If it’s at a decent price I still choose a Steelbook over those Blue or Black cheap looking plastic cases used for Blu-ray & 4K. Sure a Steelbook may get dents but I remember accidentally stepping on both a Blu-ray case & Steelbook that were both on the floor on separate occasions and the Blu-Ray case broke in two whereas the Steelbook just got a dent
Dear Elliot, thanks a lot for sharing your experience and thoughts on collecting. I find all these reflections very interesting and encouraging for people like me that want to shake off hoarding habits. Very inspiring indeed, especially when you mentioned how hard was for you to give up and get rid of your steelbook editions. I hope I can get the courage to follow your example. Cheers!!
All physical media is pretty “cosmetic” for me in my opinion… I like the look and feel of even a crtierion, steelbook or standard bluray. I know some discs are done better and I love high quality but for me more than anything I just love the collecting aspect and the feeling of holding it in my hands. It’s very textural, and steelbook is the best it can feel in my personal opinion. Just so sleek and smooth and the weight of it.. can’t describe it all but it just feels really great.
Absolutely. Nothing like a physical copy with beautiful artwork of your favorite film. I can just look at my collection.
He made a point that you can only see the spine in the shelf but I've made my shelf where they can stand face front so l can see the artwork.
@@pCOCKPRO11But it's too delicate
I started to fall into that trap of needing steelbooks and limited editions and so on. Then after a while it finally hit me that it shouldn't be about the packaging, it
should be about the movie itself.
A bit of both in my opinion. If it’s a ‘special’ film to you or part of a series that you love, it makes sense (in my opinion) to fork out the extra for a special edition steelbook case.
If it’s any and every release that you end up buying, it becomes an unhealthy obsession.
Looking at the forum HiDefNinja, there are certain members who spend nearly each and every day on the site, saying how they’ll be buying what seems to be every single release, often to the point where they don’t even like the design but have to buy it just to add it to the set.
I collect movies, not packaging.
Both are important depending on artwork and if found for a good price.
I really like the artwork for Leon but too expensive.
Agree! 👍
In times we have , it’s not even important to buy physical media anymore , when you can stream most films anyway . So when I buy me a Blu-ray , I wanna have the best possible version they have and the cover is a very important part of the whole deal . I am allways very happy when there was a little booklet or some cards or something else included ( not talking about a figure )
So the package is very important , at least for me
Although I’ve a huge SteelBook collection, I totally agree with what you’re saying here. Having said that I still love Steelbooks, just feels so premium. I won’t be getting rid of the ones that I’ve in my collection but will only be buying the selected ones going forward. If you don’t mind me asking, which platform did you use to sell your Steelbooks?
If you sell on ebay, expect this question every time: 'Have you still got the J card?". I used to chuck them out, but now have started keeping them in a special box.
Probably my favorite Steelbooks in my collection are the Ghost in the Shell 4k Steelbook, and my Frozen 4k Steelbook!!
@@winchesterplaystation1679 yes. J-card is part of the package, otherwise, it is not Complete.
@@MegaFinalRound what's a j card
Probably it is the paper slip around the steelbook, you have to take them off to be able to open the steelbook. I also kept mine somewhere
I genuinely haven’t bought a steelbook since Arrow Video’s The Thing. Steelbooks are as frustrating as slipcovers that reuse the same cover.
I agree. Do you display your films with slipcovers? Not sure whether it’s worth selling my slipcovers because there is just no point to them.
they make your bluray cozy inside you need them
I mainly like slips when their is good alternate artwork.
@@MentalDeviant do you still display the slipcovers that have the same artwork?
I too chased Steelbooks until I came to the same realization. They are delicate and damage easily. Steel is suppose to be hard and durable. Steelbooks are like glass or thin aluminum. Kept the few I bought for the artwork but ceased hemorrhaging my wallet.
The amount of Steelbooks I have, if they were actually made of durable steel the shelves they were on and maybe even the floor would cave in 😆
Think you made a big mistake mate, steelbooks are an investment, literally one of the few things you can buy and know it's going to go up in value, I buy steelbooks for movies I don't even like just cause i know its rare, but if I do buy a steelbook I want to watch on a regular basis I just buy a regular 4k or bluray copy, if you don't wanna invest in steelbooks anymore that's fine, but the basis of your idea is that the steelbook has no real function other than looking pretty, and that's just not true, I guarantee if you still had some of those steelbooks today they'd be worth a ton more
Great video dude, i’m in a very similar boat - used to absolutely love picking up super rare steelbooks, and hunting them down from overseas etc.. but at a certain point I realised I wasn’t actually doing anything with them. They usually just sat on a shelf and eventually I just stopped altogether. Now i’m much more about picking up films I care about, and less about whatever cool steelbook there might be 🙏🏻
While I partly agree with you about some things, I would like to point out one reason I love steelbooks & the reason why I started collecting them, simply because I truly truly love film & movies, I just I just think a $200 million dollar movie or even a $15,000 movie deserves something better than a 10 cent ugly plastic case & steelbooks do that. Film has so much love put into it at times, I just think this kind of art form that has so many people put their love, sweat, & tears into making deserves beautiful packing if people want.
Every once in a while, I pick up a steelbook. Night of the Living Dead for example has a beautifully designed one (glittery green font, great artwork; ARTHAUS 4k Edition).
You must have mishandled your steels I've collected for years never damaged one of my own
Can't collect steelbook because i live in a very humid area and itll just rust
Interesting, I'm the opposite, I've stopped getting plastics after I was shocked at how bad the depreciation was when I wanted to sell some of them. If a title I want is available on steelbook, I'll get the steelbook. The latest 4K Unforgiven is the jewel of my modest collection at the moment. Looking forward to adding a couple of Hitchcock classics that are coming out this autumn. Mulholland Drive will be my next gem on display.
Some steelbooks go up in value but some don't. plus, price going in is high. I only buy them used cheap or if they are the same price as a new movie. If I need the movie and like the artwork. The price is what turns me off.
@@MentalDeviant They usually go down less as they usually limited or are released in waves. So people who are egar to get them will pay full price or more for a used version.
I'd only recommend steel books for movies that are apart of you, aka top 5/
top 10 material. It's ridiculous to me to hoard steel books for just the art. The media has to be up there on your favorites to justify otherwise you go broke, lol.
I am to a point that I do what you say, only going physical for the stuff that is my top, and not only for steelbooks (films in my case). Also videogames, for example the top 5-10 games that will be in my hearth forever on the platforms I have/had, the top 5-10 music CDs or whatever with the same thought involved etc. Rest all digital.
It's like making very small collections. I also think this way, that stuff feels way more special because it really defines you. Can't feel the same accumulating "junk" for the sake of having more and more, or just having a chaotic big collection. I guess at the end it's a matter of taste or different visions about collecting though.
I agree with everything you're saying but.....I still love them! They're a cool, fun, unique way of collecting blu-rays rather than the same boring blue cases with ads, logos, and unnecessary info. The best thing to do is to be selective of which steelbooks to collect and also which digipack, digibook, and other cases. Plus they usually have unique artwork that the regular blue cases don't have. For example, the upcoming The Thing 4k steelbook, which I'll be purchasing on day 1. Thanks for your video though.
Agreed James. For a few movies I really enjoyed and didn't get an official release for the Steelbook I've even had customs made for- Tomorrow War & Puss in Boots Last Wish steelbooks as they are fun movies that hit a big note with me!
love hearing about your collecting journey, real good insight here
Thanks for all the support :)
I buy steelbooks and don’t really care about displaying them I buy them because they look cool and I love the movies
I still collect DVDs, and VHS 📼 believe it or not... Like, what happens when your wifi goes out? You can no longer stream y'know. Also , owning the movie, you get to own the case , artwork, and most importantly the actual film..... And it's the perfect time too because on ebay I can buy a used DVD that's refurbished for like $5 bux.
I'll buy a steelbook only when it's less expensive than the regular edition. I'm not a collector, so it just doesn't matter to me.
I’m a collector and I can safely say, it’s a mugs game. Re-release after re-release of the same movies just with fancier packaging. As cool as they are it is still a mugs game. Movie studios are laughing all the way to the bank as they charge us silly money. Personally I don’t buy multiple copies of the same movie just to have nicer cases. I just look online and find my favourite version and just buy the one copy. I mean how many blu Ray steelbooks are there for John Carpenters The Thing, too bloody many.
It just seems that what ever you are collecting now days is very expensive. Vinyls, movies, video games, or bottles of whisky. Prices are just crazy. For example if I import one blue underground 4k disc from us, after custom fees and postage costs final price is about 75$. Is it worth it? Absolutely not! Do I buy them? All the time! Why do we do it? Because we collectors are all mad and like shiny things no one really needs!
Personally I hate these modern artwork for old movies, they don't match the 80's 90's style, colors are not the right style, they seem just glorified fan pieces, for an old movie I want the original art/poster that the creator intended
I don't own any steelbooks so far. It's funny to hear they are so easy to get damaged. If they were actual steel that would mean pretty sturdy, right...? Sounds more like tin foil...
I once drove 3 hours to go to the only store that had an Interstellar steelbook and when I finally got back home it was split in half down the middle hahaha. Pain. They are definitely more delicate than you'd think. They can get dinged up and have dents before even bringing them home. I think they're also kind of a cash grab by the companies. I completely agree with this video. I might still buy the occasional steelbook in the future but I'll certainly never go out of my way again.
That’s so shitty man 🤣. Did you end up getting another one ?
I only get the Steelbook Edition if I REALLY love the film, or if the price is extremely low and the cover art looks irresistible but even then, I need to atleast like or admire the film.
The only thing I consider necessary for me to get in Steelbook are MCU films. Anything else and it depends on the movie and the price.
A lot of drama I heard in your video , I respect your decision but, all what your transmites here was excuses ... I have arround 1500 movies almost all’s of my movie are steelbook .. only one time I get damage and they sent another one , and about dents or scratches I just have to pay attention and asked the condition of the item , in my experience all my steelbook are very good condition.. I love movies and my movies are organized and protected with plastic case protected, your argument about the why to have beautiful artwork if I have to show only the spinal ? Really ? Looks like if I will say : why you have the real disc if you will hide in the 4K player if you can have digital ? Sound ridiculous right? If you tell me you stopped to buy steelbook because you want to safe money , I will take it ... but all what I heard here are excuses ...we buy steelbook because it’s beautiful artwork and real metal and if we are real collectors is because we will take care of the item , but if you Change your mind in the future , you can sell it in good price for another colectora , if you decide to sell the regular plastic movies will be hard to get good money for those movies .. sorry for my words .. I just ....
I only get steelbooks or movies in general that I enjoy, I'm not a completionist, I don't buy movies that I'm not going to watch.
Buying a steelbook for me comes down to is the cover cool to me, and are there any features that I don't have. Extra features sadly are becoming more limited, sans Anniversary sets. The generic covers for Blu ray discs these days are so generic. The steelbooks and boxsets remind me more of the days of VHS when a box would catch your eye.
The bent to shit steelbook was dome on purpose. No logical excuse for not wanting a steelbook. Its the safest packaging
JUST BUY STEELBOOKS FOR YOUR ABSOLUTE ALL TIME FAVOURITE MOVIES. FOR ME PERSONALLY, ITS ALL THE STAR WARS FILMS/TV SHOWS AND GREASE. THATS IT FOR ME, AND I LOVE THE STEELBOOKS ❤
FWIW a good movie is like a good book. The physical presentation matters if you revere it.
They're made of tin and get damaged soooo easily. The first thing I do when I get one is hold it up to the light and inspect it for faults - like that's not fun at all why would I want this thing to obsess over? For me it's about the MOVIES and getting the best quality on disc. Not knocking anyone who collects steelbooks but they aren't for me.
Youre not selling me, i love steelbooks. Theyre beautiful. Slipcovers are the worst
Steelbooks are pretty but I would i would worry about them getting damaged. Plus, buying the new is a gamble because you don’t know what damage may be under the j card until you open it.
I lean more towards Steelboks. I'd much rather have a steelbok over the plastic packaging
I don't, but still will buy steel over requaler, also I don't buy both version, either steel or regular case, not collector, just prefer oening physical media over renting digital
Re: hanging steelbooks on the wall using magnets-wouldn't the magnets damage the discs themselves and erase/corrupt their data?
most likely not unless your using magnets that can lift 100lbs then maybe (google answer)
Rarity becomes a fetishitic mania among collectors. It is also surprising to note how a thing is made 'rare' and 'scare' even before it is out in market. This is the power of such subjective baits in the false and illusive world of the corporate capitalism.
I’ve collected so many movie thing’s over the years. I finally woke up and realized, it’s the movie or TV series that is most important.
It's a great way to look at things. I still struggle sticking to it from time to time, but it's made my collecting a lot more fun. Cheers for watching!
Collecting steelbooks is a very addicting habit.
There is one major pain, in that you can't get every title as steelbook.
Sometimes even sequels in a franchise, of which only the first titles get a steel release.
That is the most frustrating part for me.
I personally sold most of my steellbooks lately, for financial reasons.
But having one room filled with wall to wall steelbook-shelves is one thing i still want to have someday 😁
It got to the point where I couldn’t buy a film because it wasn’t on steelbook. Stupid, but true lol
That is exactly why I don't collect the steel books.
I completely agree. Very addictive. I hate that series thing also which is why I didn’t get that Harry Potter release cause I feel like that’s the only one coming out.
But with that said. I love collecting them and can’t wait for that wall to wall of steels.
At 2:50….That’s what I’m talkin about. I love that. My problem with collecting steels is that I want the best collection. So I would buy movies that I was not interested in but because it’s a steel I would buy them just to grow my collection. Now I’m trying to get out of that and get the ones I really want. That’s what I gotta try to get pass.
I thought about stopping also because of the price. Very expensive!!!
Interesting point on sequels. I'm refusing the get the Back To The Future or Star Trek compilations because I won't have turkeys in my collection. I want BTTF 1, and Star Trek 2 only - but these aren't available on their own!
Well done for getting rid, pretty much lost interest in steelbooks these days too. First started picking them up when Play began releasing them and the prices were generally reasonable. Once Zavvi got into the steelbook game the prices started to creep up and the number being released increased too. Unfortunately quality control seemed to disappear and I lost count of the number of damaged ones I had to send back for replacement or accept a discount on because it was sold out.
Once the prices shot up with 4K (which I still haven't adopted) I thought enough is enough. Now I'll only pick one up if it contains something not available elsewhere, for example it was the only way to get the B&W version of Parasite for a while.
I've also noticed some older ones on my shelf are getting rust patches on the spines, which is pretty rubbish.
The steelbooks are always damaged after Time same with protector
Elliot "I am done with steelbooks" till they release a Barry Lyndon steelbook.
Although I don’t collect as many steelbooks as I used to (when I had 800 in the collection) I still like to pick up the occasional release, the recent Star Wars 4k steelbooks are beautiful and have roughly 300 now in the collection.
Currently I’ve gone in the opposite direction. My collection to too large to continue collecting basic everyday Blu-rays and 4K discs. I’m only buying limited editions and other unique types of media.
Only get the steelbook IF it's one of your favorite movies you want to watch for years to come. AND IF you like the artwork. Otherwise its just spending more money for the same product.
Bravo Elliott 👏 well done on conquering something that was becoming a problem and admitting to it.
Thanks so much, my friend!
There was a phase when blurays and DVDs were being released with some truly horrendous cover art, which was especially frustrating when the film had an amazing theatrical poster. Added to the bad artwork you would have 2 age certification on the front, maybe a tagline, and sometimes one or more critic quotes or star ratings. I started getting steelbooks simply to get away from that. At best you had the poster art on the front, or at least you would have some art that was equally impressive. There's some God-awful steelbooks out there but there's also some great ones like the Drew Struzan Indiana Jones and Back to the Future releases. Or the 50th anniversary Star Trek collection of movies. One problem I have is that my steelbooks often end up rusting, so I always have that kn the back of my head when buying them, that it's not going to be a permanent thing. Luckily that phase of bad bluray covers seems to have passed and we are getting so many people releasing blurays in regular amaray cases but with the poster art reproduced on the front.
I only buy movies on steelbook that I think are worthy.
I only buy steelbooks of movies I’d give a 5/5
you must've made bank from selling all those steelbooks, I see some of those limited editions go for £90 online
The true reason He game up steelbooks. He sold high LMAO
Got into collecting steelbooks a couple years ago and now I see some that I prefer the original artwork better but just wanted to have another steelbook. Still collect em but only get em if I’m a fan of the art. I totally get you
That’s good means I can collect more
Man, I used to collect loads of VHS tapes, DVD's, Blu-rays and started on 4K. I collected vinyl records, CD's, action figures and comics.
My shelves were resplendent and much envied.
Somewhere around turning 40 I just got bored of it.
So weird.
I have the same exact collection of everything you mentioned.
If I was to get a house, I'd definitely get a movie room and display all you mentioned including my favorite film posters.
Something happend to Me, it became less fun and more of a chore which was when I knew it's time to move on.
Great video pal! I also get little joy from steelbooks. I have about 30 steelbooks total, and will probably keep them because they are of films I enjoy and the hassle and stress of selling something as delicate as a steelbook and mailing it to someone might end up being more hassle than it's worth lol cheers for an honest look at collecting
So glad to see you're back at it Elliot! Ex-Magic collector here, I was able to get out by switching to collecting vinyl, blurays, and comics instead, so I'm not sure I came out ahead... lol
Yup I agree with you..most of my #steelbooks I wouldn't even open..what a waste of money..now I'm trying to get rid of all of them.. thanks for the upload! #cheers
Steelbooks really are just like reverse holo cards
I stopped buying Blu-rays to buy steel books Blu-rays, stopped buying all Blu-rays to buy 4K and 4K steel books and now I only buy regular 4K and specialty Blu-rays.
Yeah I slowed down on collecting steelbooks because they're impossible to keep in good shape and they're definitely very delicate. I only pick up limited editions when the artwork grabs my interest or if they're cheaply priced. This is always an interesting topic for collectors and thanks for making this video!
Yes me too, I have 40 steelbooks it's too délicate same with protector
Hey man I agree with you completely. I am now as well getting rid of a lot of blubray, in particular the one with normal blue cases, I just don’t like how they look on the shelf’s, when i see does vídeos of people with hundred and hundreds of blubray like a video store it just looks awful, not trying to offend anyone if that your thing great, but why collect movie you know they are bad or that you will never watch again. I am just keeping my favourites films that I now I will definitely re watch and criterion because does look beautiful
One thing that I don’t like about foil ccg cards is that they have a bend to them, so they stand out in your deck.
Over time, if you don't properly sleeve them, they turn into pringles!
@@ElliotCoen I am not that old but at least nowadays I don't have much problem with rare type cards (but also I use sleves and rarely pay any extra for rares)
To me, two are the main issues that bothers me with steelbooks...First, they obviously get easily damaged, especially scratches on the surface of the case, if you are careless and second the clips that open and close the cases sometines are a pain in the ass.They don' t close completely.
Not with you on this at all. Steelbooks are premium packaging, infinitely better than plastic cases, and well worth picking up.
Forgive me but I also think you’ve kind of overthought things a bit. Why did you feel a pressure to display the steelbooks? What’s wrong with just keeping them on a shelf with other cases? And why sell everything you’ve bought rather than just stop buying more?
Literally all the card boxes of boutique packages are more fragile than steelbooks
I had to start being careful about what I collected, I start to bury myself in junk. You only have some much space, sometimes less is more.
Certainly. I used to want to collect EVERYTHING. Books, movies, records, video games. There's only so much time, money, and space in our lives. We cannot possibly do everything in life, which is why our choices matter. Thanks for watching!
I bought some steels for the artwork even if I wasn’t that fussed on the film, which is silly.
When I started, I brought them regardless of liking the film OR the artwork. There’s an old version of Twelve Monkeys as a good example - had Nareen the film, the artwork is dull, yet I decided to pay a premium price, just ‘because’.
Certain collectors online are obsessive to the point that I think it’s a mental illness.
I have over 500 steel books
the pulp fiction steelbook thoughhh. That artwork is insane
I was saying something the other day to a friend about my recently deceased brother's obsession with collecting - I am not against collecting, I do it myself, but at the same time it's important to know when to let go. I am glad you have pretty much come to my same observation, albeit from a different angle. I personally am very careful to pay it forward to someone who can truly appreciate and enjoy something I am letting go - which I am sure you do too.
Wise words, Bill, and I'm so sorry to hear about your brother. Thanks for the support!
Steelbooks are nice but they damage SO easily that I have been scared to buy any lately because they are usually dented. I have ocd and want them in perfect condition.
life hack, speed up the video to 1.5 for a normal person talking
😂 that doesn’t sound normal to me!
One reason to consider a steelbook is if it's from a very indie label. Some years ago on Synapse Films' podcast, it was mentioned that 4K transfers (which Synapse puts a ton of care into) are very expensive, so the steelbooks and LE releases help them JUST to recoup their expenses. Then, after those all sell, they can start with the regular releases and make a little profit on the product. So I would buy a steelbook from them just to support them because I love what they do.
Well done Elliot. Last Steelbook I chased was La La Land. It was $44.99 CAD and after a week...I knew I had a problem as I don't even have a 4K player. You do You. Peace from Ontario Canada!
I only buy steel books of my very favorite movies or if I find them at a great price. Even if I can't display them it's nice knowing that when I go and grab the movie to watch it I can admire it and know that I own a unique copy of one of my favorite films. I only own about 10-12 steel books though.
I've never liked steelbooks. As you said too fragile, they should be called tinbooks.
Give me a good old plastic case any day :-D
Drop the plastic case and no problem. Drop a steel book and hope for the best.
Tinbooks would be a MUCH better name lol
I like tinbooks. They probably wouldn't sell as well 😂
I don' collect steelbooks. Only a few that has special meanings in my memories. No more than 6 steelbooks on my walls. The same with blue-rays... FY I... I used tiny magnets with command strips to display my steelbooks. Much better looking on wall than shelving them.
It's funny , I have hundreds of steelbook and stopped collecting them about 3 or 4 years ago but the most recent one I just got was the total recall 4k. Amazing artwork.
I used to collect them, had about 500. But sold them all in 2015 because they no longer felt “special” because they became very easy to find.
I have steelbooks for my favs. Now moving to slipcovers. And if I only get normal 4k... thinking on doing custom slipcovers
I’ve recently started collecting and I usually only get steelbooks of my favourite films, or if the artwork is particularly nice
Dor me in particular studio ghibi steel books is only neccessary for me to purchase after I just got introduced on researching what's steel books is.
Some people collect every movie, some people collect slipcovers, some people collect boutique, and some people collect steelbooks. Personally, I ONLY collect movies I absolutely love. So, since my collection is so small, I like them being in expensive steelbook cases. I'd rather own 200 rare steelbooks, than 1000 mediocre movies.
I only buy steelbooks of movies that are very important to me. I was going crazy buying them for a while, but one day, I just stopped and asked myself, “Wth are you doing, dude??” It’s ridiculous. So, I sold a bunch of them off. I only have about 20 steelbooks in my collection now, and that is exactly the right number, in my humble opinion. The rest of my movies I buy in standard blu ray editions, and I place the disc and artwork into a brand new Viva Elite case. Works better that way, and I think the Viva Elite’s look and feel fabulous.
I love steelbooks, but if i don't like the artwork i don't buy. And i only get steelbooks for movies i'd call 8+/10 for me. I just love as i curate my blu-ray collection smaller, a lot of them get updated to steelbook. The spine is what's visible most of the time, but i try to rotate 1 or 2 into a stand beside my tv every week. I only have 1 damaged one, and walmart sold it to me that way. I also love my steelbooks for getting autographs of my fav actors.
Basically im an artist who appreciates having pretty versions 😂
As of DVD's or Blu-Rays, I'd take a nice hardpaper sleeve over a steelbook anytime. For PS4/Pokémon games it's a whole different story!
I pretty much gave up collecting myself and sold the steelbooks. The only one I kept was my Lost in Translation one as that is going for about £100. I also play Magic but am a casual player, I only started a few months back. I gave up collecting films and sold most of them, but I am starting back up but with DVDs, not to collect but to use for my education as a filmmaker, mostly old classic films from the 30s and 40s. I am displaying some of my favourite editions again in my room of my only steelbook and my favourite box sets like The arrow version of the apartment, the studio canal fabric copy of The graduate and Criterion's Grand Budapest Hotel.
I like getting my favorite movies in the best edition. And I know there's unique box sets, but the most obtainable prestine versions are steelbooks imo. If you just want the watch of the movie, I understand getting something cheaper. But I feel steels, 9 xs out of 10, have the best artwork on them. Also, I get protectors for mine, so no scratches or dust shelf ware. I love steels.
I added just under 160 SteelBooks to my collection over the course of a year (won a major personal injury lawsuit, so I indulged). I’m already over them, and slowly selling most (keeping a few sentimental ones).
They’re simply too easy to damage. I handle them like a newborn baby and use quality protective cases, but it’s like every time I go to pick one up there’s a fresh blemish.
Also, as I’ve gotten older, material possessions mean far less to me. I’d much rather spend my money on life experiences like traveling, going to concerts, hiking, etc. Most of all, they don’t really make me happy. I’ll buy a new one, get that dopamine hit when it arrives, and then it’s gone.
You need steelbooks for the upcoming (potential/unlikely) apocalypse, when all the wifi has gone and everyone is quarantined with no entertainment and bored to death, you won’t be. Lol I’m a weirdo.