Watch Adjust Your Tracking [VHS Vault]

Adjust Your Tracking is a documentary film released in 2013 that explores the world of VHS tape collectors and the culture surrounding it. The film is directed by Dan Kinem and Levi Peretic, and features interviews with various collectors and experts, including Troma Entertainment co-founder Lloyd Kaufman and Fangoria magazine editor Anthony Timpone.

The film begins with a brief history of VHS tapes and their rise in popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. It then introduces viewers to the community of VHS collectors, who are passionate about not only the movies themselves but also the artwork, packaging, and history behind each tape. The film follows several collectors as they search for rare and obscure titles at garage sales, flea markets, and online auctions.

As the documentary progresses, it delves deeper into the psychology behind why people collect VHS tapes, and explores how the medium itself has influenced the horror genre in particular. The filmmakers interview several horror filmmakers who got their start making low-budget, direct-to-video movies in the VHS era, including Frank Henenlotter (Basket Case) and David DeCoteau (Puppet Master III: Toulon's Revenge). These filmmakers share their perspectives on how the limitations of the VHS format actually helped them become more creative in their filmmaking.

The documentary also includes a segment on VHS distribution companies, such as Troma Entertainment and Full Moon Features, which specialize in releasing low-budget, independent movies on VHS, DVD, and now streaming platforms. Lloyd Kaufman, the co-founder of Troma, shares his thoughts on why VHS is still relevant in today's digital age, and how the company has adapted to changes in the market.

One of the most interesting aspects of Adjust Your Tracking is the way it captures the sense of nostalgia that many VHS collectors feel for a bygone era. The documentary features clips from classic VHS rental store commercials and footage of old-school video store interiors, which will no doubt evoke memories for anyone who grew up in the 80s or 90s.

The film also touches on the community of VHS collectors and how social media has enabled them to connect with each other in new ways. The filmmakers attend a VHS festival in Knoxville, Tennessee, where collectors from all over the country come together to share their love of the format. It's clear that for many of these collectors, their VHS tapes are not just movies, but also a way of connecting with like-minded individuals and preserving a piece of cultural history.

Overall, Adjust Your Tracking is a fascinating look at a subculture that most people probably don't know exist. It's a celebration of the VHS tape and everything it represents, from its significance in the horror genre to its role in shaping the way we consume and collect media. Whether you're a VHS collector yourself or simply interested in learning more about this unique aspect of pop culture history, this documentary is well worth checking out.