ALT-2 Gift Ideas for Movie Buffs
If you're reading this article you're hoping to glean insight to a the gift giving ideas for a film fanatic, movie buff, what have you. The problem with this, like any fanatic, is you don't want to offend their sense of taste. You also don't want to give something like a gift certificate and seem insensitive, although this is the route safest and most commonly traveled. We'll get back to that later.
Idea number one: A movie on DVD or VHS. There are two main problems with this A:You don't know what they already own and B: You don't know what they'll like for sure. Which means getting something that they might not even know about, which you probably won't know about either. Hard to say if it's good. Do not buy in corporate stores. That is just asking for trouble, instead find independently owned stores that sell movies. You may even have to look at local record stores, some sell movies. The reason being for this is that you'll find less main stream films that are good, but also probably a better price. Always ask the clerk running the store for help. Typically they have this job because they think of themselves as experts on all things terrific in film. Just don't ask them for an explanation of the film, that could take a while. Instead, explain your friends taste in film as best you can, using some of their favorites as examples, then ask if they have anything for them. Odds are they will. Still risky, but it just may work out.
Idea number two: A book on film or film making. This is dangerous for the simple reason that it may never be read. This is the sweater and a pair of socks gift equivalent for a film buff. While practical, it may never get used and just collect dust in some closet. However, there are winning choices on this. Many self-proclaimed geniuses of film have written books on "how they did it." So if you know of your friends favorite director, search for his book, odds are they won't own it already, and they'll enjoy reading the thoughts of a favorite film maker.
Idea numero tres: Gift certificate or movie passes. While passes to the cinema are a winning choice, as you can never have too many for a film buff, and even if they see something horrible they can always say "at least it was free." The problem is it may seem impersonal. So you may opt for a gift certificate for a rental house or a video store. If you're going for the gift certificate, again, avoid the corporate conglomerates. No Best Buy for your friend and certainly not Wal-Mart. Again, try and find that local store. One with a particularly indie feel. It's best if they've never been there before. Rental houses are fine too, so long as they are locally owned. This will give your gift not only the "Hey! Free movies!" which is heaven for a film buff, but it will also say "I found this really cool place that I thought you'd like!" Definite plus.
