Lunchmeat VHS

Lunchmeat VHS, Issue 2
Editor	Josh Schafer
Editor	Ted Gilbert
Categories	Horror, VHS
Frequency	Sporadic
First issue	August 2008
Country	United States
Based in	Elmer, New Jersey
Language	English
Website	http://www.lunchmeatvhs.com/

Lunchmeat VHS is a niche magazine, brand, and online community dedicated to the culture, appreciation, and preservation of VHS (Video Home System) tapes, particularly those that feature obscure and cult films. Since its inception, Lunchmeat VHS has become a significant hub for enthusiasts of the VHS format, often showcasing rare and forgotten titles, as well as providing a platform for discussion and nostalgia.

Lunchmeat VHS features a variety of content, including:

• Reviews: Detailed reviews of rare and obscure VHS releases, often focusing on horror, sci-fi, and exploitation films that were popular during the format's heyday.
• Interviews: Conversations with filmmakers, collectors, and industry insiders who have contributed to the VHS culture.
• Articles: In-depth articles on the history of VHS, its impact on film distribution and consumption, and the ongoing efforts to preserve VHS tapes.
• Collector Spotlights: Features on individual collectors, showcasing their collections and personal stories related to VHS.
• DIY Guides: Tips and tutorials on how to repair and maintain VHS tapes and players, as well as creative projects related to VHS.

Lunchmeat VHS was founded in 2008 by Josh Schafer, an avid VHS collector and enthusiast. The magazine began as a passion project aimed at celebrating and preserving the unique charm and cultural significance of VHS tapes. Initially a print magazine, it quickly garnered a dedicated following, leading to an expansion into an online platform.

Lunchmeat VHS fosters a vibrant community of VHS enthusiasts through its online presence and social media platforms. The magazine hosts and participates in various events, such as VHS swap meets, film screenings, and conventions dedicated to retro media. These events provide opportunities for collectors to trade tapes, share knowledge, and celebrate their shared passion.

In addition to the magazine, Lunchmeat VHS has branched out into several other ventures:

• Film Distribution: Lunchmeat VHS has distributed limited-run VHS editions of contemporary and cult films, often working with indie filmmakers to create exclusive releases that appeal to collectors. These releases typically feature unique packaging and bonus content.
• Merchandise: The brand offers a range of merchandise, including apparel, stickers, posters, books, zines, and other VHS-related items, catering to the tastes of retro media enthusiasts.
• Collaborations: Lunchmeat VHS frequently collaborates with other retro media artists, companies, film festivals, and cultural institutions to promote the appreciation of VHS and analog media.

Lunchmeat VHS has expanded its influence in the realm of retro media through various other publications:

Home Video Horrors: An ongoing project created by Josh Schafer and photographer/designer Jacky Lawrence. This unique series serves as photo tributes to cult horror films from the VHS era. The project places iconic video box covers in meticulously crafted scenes that reflect the essence of the films they feature, offering a meta mise-en-scène experience.

The primary output of this project is the annual Home Video Horrors Calendar. Each year's calendar highlights different cult horror films, showcasing the distinct and often exaggerated artwork that defined the genre during the late 20th century. The calendar features obscure holidays, the birthdays of horror icons. The character Rotty Rentals, an undead video store clerk, hosts and guides you through the calendar, providing facts and trivia about each month’s featured title.

Stuck On VHS: An art-book co-written by Josh Schafer and Jacky Lawrence that focuses on the art and allure of VHS rental stickers. It samples and explores the creativity and variety behind the often eye-catching and nostalgic stickers that adorned VHS rental tapes, offering insights into the cultural impact of these micro-artworks.

Lunchmeat VHS has played a crucial role in the resurgence of interest in VHS tapes, influencing a new generation of collectors and filmmakers. Its dedication to preserving VHS culture has helped ensure that these tapes, and the unique experiences they offer, are not forgotten in the digital age. The magazine's efforts have also highlighted the importance of physical media in an era dominated by streaming services.

• Official website
• Cinesploitation Review of Lunchmeat VHS #1 & #2