Baltimore movie fans have a unique option when deciding what movie to watch on a Friday night. Instead of picking a title off a streaming service, they can browse for a VHS or DVD at Beyond Video in the Remington neighborhood.
The non-profit video rental library is home to 23,000 DVDs, Blu-rays and VHS tapes. Volunteer staff member Andy Webster says if you can’t find the movie you’re looking for online, there’s a good chance it’s at Beyond Video.
“Movies are more accessible than they ever have been in a lot of ways because you can just go on streaming,” Webster said. “But what a lot of people don’t get are the breadth of films that Beyond offers.”
Beyond Video is stocked with foreign, obscure and older films that can be harder to find online. It has sections devoted to cult films and special collections, like Criterion and Vinegar Syndrome. It’s also home to fan favorite blockbusters and new releases. According to Webster, there is something for every viewer’s taste.
“Whether or not you’re really casual movie goer or you’re like a diehard cinephile, there’s always something to be found here.”
The video library opened its doors in 2018 with the goal of preserving the home video experience and culture. Beyond Video is run by an all-volunteer staff and customers sign up for memberships through donations that allow them to borrow from the library.
For Webster, it’s not just the selection of films that makes Beyond Video special. It’s also the community that is formed by members to share a love for movies.
“I keep coming back, not only because it lets me explore any kind of movie I want… but I’ve met a lot of really cool people working here as well.”
