Discs I’m scared to spin…

Now that title might read like I’m talking about horror films, but I’m not. Not exclusively, anyway.

No, I’m talking about the discs on the shelf that I’m worried about putting into the player because I’m nervous they either won’t be as good as I remember them, or they won’t live up to the hype.

Let me explain…

Lawrence Of Arabia

Okay, this one is the biggie for me. I’ve had this Blu-Ray sitting on my shelf for years. It’s still in the cellophane.

I’ve had it in my hands on countless occasions thinking to myself ‘this is the day I finally watch it!’, only to put it back on the shelf and watch something else.

Partly it’s the intimidating runtime, but it’s also partly due to the incredible reputation it has as a cinematic milestone.

I heard Edgar Wright on a podcast a while back comparing certain films to coffee table books – you buy them just to say you have them, or leave out on shelves so people think you’re clever, but you never actually watch them.

One day, I swear I’m going to watch it. But for now, I’m a little worried it won’t live up to the reputation.

Before Sunrise/Sunset/Midnight

A trilogy of films which I’ve heard largely great things about – incredibly good things, from one trusted friend – and a trilogy that’s been in my collection for a while.

I don’t know what’s held me back on these really, as the runtime for the first one at least is a real plus, but from what I know about it, I suspect it’ll need to catch me in just the right mood.

Without actually watching it, I’ve sort of convinced myself I know exactly what it is, and while I’m still curious to see them, part of me’s always thinking there’s a time and a place for watching two indie actors wander round a beautiful location waffling on about nothing in particular… and I don’t know when or where that is.

The Babadook

Okay, this is the only one on the list that’s actually made it as far as my player – not only have I seen The Babadook, I bloody loved it.

Well, I say I loved it – I watched it on a blustery winter’s night, alone in the house. While drinking. It scared the fricking bejesus out of me.

But I’ve raved about it to anyone who’ll listen, and anyone who’s seen it knows it’s far more than a scary film. It’s smart, deep, and visually impressive with some great performances (as well as being a scary film).

Still not sure I dare watch it again just yet though.

How about you?

Is there something on your shelf that you’ve bought but deliberately not watched? And if so, what was your reason? Get in touch on the socials and let me know – surely, I’m not the only one who’s had this?