Takoma Park, Maryland’s Video Americain: Local Store with Every Type of Movie for Anybody
We are very well-rounded when it comes to our movies, my fiancÃ?© more so than me. I love watching indie and foreign movies above anything else. It’s a breath of fresh air to watch the types of movies made in Japan or Italy or watching what a director can do with a movie that took only a few thousand dollars to create. As much as I loved these movies, it was very hard to find a place to buy them, let alone rent them. I had to resort to reviews from critics about films I was interested in seeing and then determine whether or not I should spend the money to buy and then have it shipped to my house. Ugh, the frustration at watching a movie that absolutely reeked of suckiness is the worst feeling – but then knowing I actually spent money on it and now I actually own this piece of junk is even worse!! In any case, you can see why I am very happy about my local video store being Video Americain.
Video Americain has six stores scattered in the Maryland, Delaware and D.C. area. The one I happen to go to is located in Takoma Park. It’s surrounded by some of the coolest little shops, ranging from antique items to your choice of beads for necklaces and such. It’s got a couple of great shops to grab a bite to eat as well. The neighborhood has an eclectic vibe to it with a great laid back feel, if that helps you get an idea of the type of neighborhood it’s located in. Another plus, it’s just a couple blocks away from the Takoma Park Metro station. So, if you’re interested in visiting the video store that way, it’s definitely possible to do so.
But let’s get back to the video store – when I first walked in, I was shocked to see how big of a foreign film section they had. The entire front half of the store was full of movies from Japan, India, Germany, Italy, etc. You name a country and there’s bound to be a movie from that country sitting on the shelf. If you’re a fan of a particular director, you’re in luck! This particular location of Video Americain has all movies divided into sections based on its director. I’ve definitely benefited from this categorization because I’ve been able to brush up on my Alfred Hitchcock and my fiancÃ?© has been able to watch many more of Akira Kurosawa’s films. Their horror section is great too. They’ve got all the cult hits along with more widely-known horror movies so we can get our horror movie fix. Also, if you’re looking for a particular title but can’t find it, don’t fret! The Video Americain staff is very helpful and I’ve had no problems with them helping me find a specific movie.
The beauty about Video Americain is that it’s not geared only towards independent and foreign films. It’s got a vast selection of American comedies, drama and new releases. They’ve got everything your local Blockbuster or Hollywood Video has in stock. The only difference is, Video American caters to a broader movie audience which makes me a happy camper! They’ve also got a kids section so, parents, if you’re looking to find a movie for yourself and the kids at the same time, look no further! Also, for those who enjoy the “adult” film section, Video Americain does happen to have one as well. I have to say I’ve never been in there so I can’t give a review on that!
If you happen to live in the Maryland area, especially in Takoma Park, make sure you stop by the Video Americain store. The address is:
Video Americain
6937 Laurel Ave.
Takoma Park, MD 20812
Their phone number is 301.270.4464 and their hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and for the weekend movie renters, their hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The parking for this particular location is behind the strip of stores where Video American is located. It is a bit hidden so you’ll need to keep your eye out for it. Also, there is metered parking on the side of the street which is free on weekends. If you’d like more information on a Video Americain near you, feel free to check out their website: http://buy.videoamericain.com
You will need to become a member with them but it’s absolutely free and takes only minutes to sign up. It’s definitely worth it because you’ll be visiting Video Americain more often than you think. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how great their selection is! Happy Viewing!
