Blockbuster is back in these Iowa cities thanks to a free movie lending project
How do you watch a movie?
Do you use streaming services such as Netflix, go to the theaters or find it on a website certain to give your computer malware?
Well, some Iowans have an alternative option — or potentially, create the alternative option for the benefit of others.
That’s thanks to Free Blockbuster, an organization comparable to Little Free Library, the small libraries created by community members often seen in neighborhoods.
Across America are small blue and yellow rental boxes under the Free Blockbuster name, allowing people to get their hands on a physical copy of a movie.
What is Free Blockbuster?
The first Free Blockbuster was founded in 2019, according to the organization’s website. It began with film and television producer Brian Morrison, a former Blockbuster employee, according to the New York Times.
Evidently, Morrison is using the name and logo of the video store retailer that once had thousands of locations. Dish Network, which owns the Blockbuster brand, is “aware” of this project, the New York Times reported in March.
Where are Free Blockbusters in Iowa?
The Des Moines Register confirmed that two of the three Free Blockbusters registered on the organization’s map of locations are still operational.
The two confirmed operational Free Blockbusters are located at:
2419 Crestview Ave., Iowa City in the front yard
390 W. Prairie Dr., Fairfax at Hawks Ridge Park
The Free Blockbuster in Fairfax contains DVDs, CDs and microwavable popcorn, said founders Amy and Greg Stewart in an email to the Register. The Stewarts are also responsible for six Little Free Libraries in Fairfax.
They’re always looking for children’s DVDs, which are popular, they said. Donations can be left at the Free Blockbuster box as well.
How can I create my own Free Blockbuster?
Find something like a newspaper box or build some kind of home to store your movies, according to Free Blockbuster, just as you might to create a small lending library. Of course, instead of books, you’ll be filling your kiosk of sorts with DVDs or VHS (or anything you might want to share). Decorate it, spread the word about its existence, and there you have it.
All that’s left to do, in the words of Free Blockbuster’s motto, “Take a movie, leave a movie.”
Paris Barraza is a trending and general assignment reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at pbarraza@registermedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Fairfax, Iowa City are home to Free Blockbuster locations. What is it?
