Welcome to Black Dog Video!

So here we are! Here’s where you can donate to the Food Bank for our Friday the 13th Marathon.

It’s easy! Click the “donate” button above and that will take you to the Food Bank donation page. Any donation of $13 or more will not only get you one free rental at Black Dog Video but will also enter you in one of our draws for fabulous prizes donated by wonderful local businesses! We will be doing one draw at the end of every Friday the 13th movie we watch and then a grand prize draw after we’re all done (assuming that we survive the ordeal).

After you’ve donated, send us an email with your name, donation amount and contact information to and we’ll toss you into our in-store ballot box. We will be doing this on the honour system so please be honourable. You can also phone the shop (after 12 noon) at 604-251-3305 with the above information. You can also drop into the shop where you can donate and fill out your ballot there as well (masks on, of course). Prizes are in-store pick-up only.

We will be live streaming the event on our Youtube Channel and the Facebook event page so you can let us know all of the above information there as well (and you get to watch us go slowly insane from the comfort of your own home!).

Many local businesses have been very generous with their donations. Prizes include lovely things from the following places:

Jefferson’s Barbershop

Container Brewing

The Downlow Chicken Shack

Highlife Records

Audiopile Records

Bandidas Restaraunt

The Charlatan

Vera’s Burgers

Womyn’s Wear

The Jean Queen

KushKlub

Drive Coffee Bar

The Rio Theatre

Mintage

Memphis BBQ

Juniors Bar and Grill

Windfall Cider

Zsuzsi Gartner (local author donating a signed copy of her fabulous new book, The Beguiled)

In addition to all of these fine things, I just wanted to give a big fat shout-out to Cam at Caje Creative @cajecreative for doing up the images for the posters and the lovely T-shirts!

It’s going to epic. Hope that you can join in!

November 9th

November 8th

October 27th

So here’s more details on the big Friday the 13th charity marathon that we’re throwing..

Slight change to the hours of operation! We will no be closing at 8pm on Thursday and Sunday (was 9pm). So hours are as follows:

Sunday – Thursday 12-8pm

Friday and Saturday 12-9 pm

That is all. Carry on.

October 18th

Just wanted to throw out a huge thanks to all who came by yesterday to celebrate International Independent Video Store Day! It lovely to see so many faces, new and old. Makes me feel like we’re still relevant in these troubled times. I hope to be writing this again this time next year!

And for those who missed it, we debuted two new Black Dog T-shirts yesterday just in time for Halloween! As well, we did another run of our most popular shirt, Dogtropolis! Drop in and grab one or more! We also have our Black Dog Masks back in stock made by local design hero Tina at Oona Clothing!

October 17th

Today’s the day! See below.

October 16th

Tomorrow is International Independent Video Store Day! Pop in (only 6-7 folks allowed in the shop at one time) and celebrate (wear a mask) all that is wild and wonderful about your local video store! There’s not many of us left in these dark times but we hope that we can shed a little light in your lives. Because of the plague ravishing the lands, this year’s celebration will be a tad muted – no prize pack, giveaways, free cake and beer or kissing booths. Keep it civil and have fun. Here’s what we have in store for you…

~ 2 for 1 on all DVD and Blu Ray rentals!

~ 2 for 1 on all $5 DVD and Blu Ray sales!

~ All VHS are $2 or 10 for $10!

~ 20% off of all Box Sets!

~ New Halloween themed T-Shirts will be ready to sheath your lovely bodies!

~ Black Dog masks made by local designer Oona Clothing will be available!

~ Good times!

October 12th

We’re open today noon till 8pm for all your Thanksgiving movie needs! Come get your fill! We’re sold out of our cool Black Dog masks at the moment but will have more in stock soon. Also, it’s International Video Store Day this coming Saturday. Check out this week’s newsletter for all the gory details (big news coming!). Finally, I hope that you’ve all been playing along at home with our Screamtober horror movie suggestions! Check out what we’ve got so far here! It’s the best time of the year.

October 5th

Well, it’s business as (somewhat) usual these days but with only the Black Dog (Commercial) open. RJ is making Video Cat on Cambie street his own and is doing a fine job. Go check him/it out! And when in the shop can everyone please wear a mask (not mandatory yet, but please be considerate) and give others some space to move around.

It’s the 10th International Video Store Day coming up on the 17th. It will be a more low key affair this year then in previous years (no cake, beer, giveaways, high-fives or kissing booth!). We’ll have some rental and sale deals for y’all though. Plus we’ll be making a big announcement on an upcoming event in November!

We’ll have Black Dog masks for sale starting tomorrow as well as a new, cool line or two of T-shirts soon. Also we’ll be launching the Black Dog Youtube channel in the very near future! Stay tuned for that.

And last thing on today’s agenda is letting you know about our annual Halloween Screamtober Film Recommendation Extravaganza! Every day leading up to the big day (31st!) we’ll post a lovely horror film that we think that you may enjoy! Check it all out here!

September 7/20

So there seems to be a bit of confusion on what exactly is happening with the video stores. I thought my last Newsletter laid it out perfectly clear in my mind but that’s in my mind. Apologies if you misunderstood…

Cambie Shop – Is no longer operating under the Black Dog Video banner. It has been sold to RJ and he will maintain it as a video store under the name Video Cat. I will no longer be working there or have anything to do with the shop (unless RJ needs a bit of help!)

Commercial Shop – Will remain Black Dog Video for the foreseeable future (hopefully forever!). I will be working there pretty much full time.

The weekly newsletter will be focused on the Commercial shop and what’s happening there (we have lots of big ideas on the horizon!). I will provide links to what Video Cat is up to when provided (we will also try to maintain similar stock but there will be discrepancies). Everyone is welcome to still receive this missive but I understand if you Cambie folks are no longer interested.

August 10/20

I hope that everyone is still keepin’ on out there! Here’s a swell offer from Vancity ~ buy a gift card for many awesome local businesses (our included) and Vancity will pay half! It’s a great way to support the places you love and save a few bucks at the same time! But this offer is only good until the 12th so get on your horse and ride.

https://supportlocalbc.com/pages/vancity-loves-local-week

July28/20

Hey everybody! I hope that everyone is having the best summer that they can. It’s hot, too hot many might say, but enjoy it while it lasts. Hoping to have more Father and Son Film Appreciation Class additions soon. My kid has been busy with some theatre work and hanging out (responsibly, of course) with his friends. Hang in there. And don’t forget to keep us in mind when looking for something to occupy your time. If you need to order anything to fill your shelves, hit us up! Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay hungry.

July 15/20

Hey everybody! We’ve adjusted the hours at the shops once more. I’m thinking these will be the final and permanent hours of operation.

Commercial Drive

Monday – Wednesday: Noon till 8pm

Thursday – Sunday: Noon till 9pm

Cambie Street

Monday – Thursday: 2 – 8pm

Friday – Sunday: Noon till 9pm

Hope that works for y’all. And remember, we have our lovely deals on everyday, all day!

July 4/20

Hey everybody! New debit/credit machine has arrived at Cambie! Come on in and pay your tabs and rent or buy some more lovely things! We have things! There’s also a plethora of New Releases on the shelves just for you today! Open at noon, see you soon.

July 3/20

Lovely day for a movie, isn’t it? Open 12-8 at both shops on this dreary Friday. Deals are in play today, just like everyday – Rent 2 New Releases and get a 3rd FREE! Rent 5 catalogue titles for just $15 (2 FREE)! Hoping to have the new debit/credit machine at Cambie today (lousy company screwed up and didn’t process the replacement order!). Till that happens, bring cash. And if you missed the big news in the last newsletter, the Cambie shop has been sold! Read all about it here.

Oh, and I’ve been temporarily banned from Facebook so don’t look for any updates or anything from us there for a few days. They suck. Have a lovely weekend and watch something cool!

June 30/20

Hopefully we’ll have a new debit/credit machine over yonder at Cambie street soon (today or tomorrow please). Until then bare with us, bring cash or there’s a bank machine beside the shop or we can run a tab for you. And remember the new hours for the Cambie shop 2-8 pm Monday – Thursday and 12-8pm Friday-Sunday. Oh, and stay tuned for some big news in tomorrow’s Newsletter!

June 26/20

Today we move into Phase 9 (from outer space!) of the re-opening! What does that mean? Well, for us it means that we are now open until 8pm every night at both shops! Commercial will be noon till 8 everyday while over yonder at Cambie we are noon till 8 Friday-Sunday and 2pm till 8pm Monday to Thursday. See you soon!

June 24/20

Hours change update! Starting this Friday, both shops will be open until 8pm! But the hours will slightly change at Cambie – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – noon till 8pm. Monday – Thursday 2pm – 8pm. Over yonder at Commercial we’ll be noon to 8pm everyday. Black Dog Video is doing our best to keep you satisfied as we adjust to whatever this new normal might be! Looking forward to seeing you in the shops!

June 19/20

With things opening back up across the town, I thought I’d go over some of the commonplace rules that folks should adhere to, not only in Black Dog Video, but at any shop that you enter…

Please do not come into Black Dog Video if…

• You display any symptoms of Covid-19: Fever. Dry Cough. Tiredness. Wheezing and sneezing. Barfing or yarfing. Bleeding from unusual orifices.
• If you have Covid-19
• If you show a propensity to spout non-nonsensical conspiracy theories
• If you’re “just browsing”. Only actual renters or buyers are welcome at this time

Please stay at least two arms lengths or 1 and 1/3rd leg lengths away from each other. Respect each others space.

Please limit yourself to as little time as possible to be in the shops.

Only 6 customers allowed in the stores at any given time.

Be safe. Be happy. Be.

June 14/20

So how’s everyone doing out there? We’re half-way through, arguably, the strangest, most intense (re: f#@ked- up) and historical year in any of our lives. Seems most things are back open around these parts (still waiting on the Credit Unions – need to buy some change!) but we still have to be vigilant and not let down our guard as this Covid-19 is still out there lurking in the corners. We’ve increased our hours of operation (noon to 7pm) and will probably increase that again near the end of the month. Plan accordingly. And we’ll continue our fab deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2 everyday of the week. Can’t be beat! We’ve also extended the rental period on the New Releases form 2 to 3 days! At least there’s some good news out there! Take care and be safe!

June 12/20

Starting today (Friday June 12th – almost Friday the 13th!) we’ll be staying open an hour longer at both shops! That’s right, new hours are noon – 7pm! And even more good news, we’ve made our new releases good for 3 nights so now you don’t have to sweat taking 3 for the price of 2 and getting through them all! Our fab “5 catalogue films for $15” deal is also in play every day of the week and more! Makes up for the dreary day out there.

June 9/20

Hopefully we’ll have a fancy new space-aged debit/CC machine for all you lovely movie watchers out there today at the Commercial shop! And hopefully CanPar will figure out how to deliver my films that were supposed to be here almost a week ago! In case you missed some startling news in yesterday’s newsletter, here’s your second chance because, don’t we all deserve a second chance? Open at noon today.

June 7/20

So our debit/credit card machine at Commercial is pooched and we won’t have a new one until Tuesday at the soonest. Of course it had to give up the ghost on a Friday night and everything is closed on the weekend! So if you’re coming in today to rent or buy some films, please bring delicious cash! We can also put the charge on your account so you can pay at a later date – a tab if you will. Both shops open at noon today for your movie loving hearts.

June 6/20

A lovely day! To rent movies! Both shops open noon till 6pm to service you and your movie desires. Rent 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2. Can’t be beat! Remember to be aware of your fellow patrons and give each other room to roam in the shops. Six people max in the shops at any given time please. And no looky-loos. Thanks.

June 4/20

Looks like a rainy day here in sunny Vancouver. But don’t let that spoil your ham! We’re open noon till 6pm at both shops today! New films are on the shelves! More are on the way. For additional information on that and other things check out yesterday’s newsletter! Happy viewing!

June 2/20

To distract you from the insanity of what’s going on down south (and don’t forget the current global pandemic!), we’ll be open noon until 6pm today (and everyday) at both shops. I imagine that these hours will be changing in the upcoming weeks as we adjust to the new normal. Also… we’ll have some fresh new releases on the shelves at Commercial today and Cambie tomorrow and more later this week! Online ordering is still available for those who want to get in and out quickly. Send us an email to (specify day and store please) and we’ll do our best to fix you up!

May 30/20

Bored with Netflix yet? I bet you are (if you like movies, it’s a utter wasteland)! Well that’s where we come in! Over 17,000 titles to fill your movie void. And we have daily deals – Rent 5 catalogue titles for $15 and 3 new releases for the price of 2 – everyday of the week! And you’re supporting a nice small business so, win-win! We’ll be open at both shops today noon till 6pm and every day after that as well! These hours will more than likely change in the next couple of weeks as we feel up our way back into society. Please be patient and check back here for (almost) daily updates.

May 29/20

And the was much rejoicing! We’ll be open at both shops today noon till 6pm and every day after that as well! These hours will more than likely change in the next couple of weeks as we feel up our way back into society. Please be patient and check back here for (almost) daily updates.

Rent 5 catalogue titles for $15 and 3 new releases for the price of 2 – everyday of the week. This will supplant all the other deals to make it easier for all to remember and participate. ALSO – all late charges incurred up until Friday (today) – including those that piled up before the plague descended upon the world – will be forgiven (some exceptions may apply and guilt tips accepted :)).

We will continue to offer curbside pick-up twice a week – Wednesdays and Saturdays – as doing this everyday might make my head explode. You’re still welcome to call in and reserve films any day of the week. And if anyone wants to get in and out as fast as possible, you can still pay with e-transfers. Only 5 folks in the shop at a time please and make space and time for others. We’re looking forward to seeing your smiling, masked covered, faces once more! Huzzah!

May 28/20

One more day/night until we’re back in business, baby! Tomorrow both shops will be open noon till 6pm to service you with all of your movie wants and needs. These hours will probably change in the next few weeks as we adjust to the new normal (whatever that is?!). Today we’re having both shops hosed down with a special disinfectant fog! It will make browsing and enjoying the stores even better and safer and better! Hope to see you all out tomorrow!

Rent 5 catalogue titles for $15 and 3 new releases for the price of 2 – everyday of the week. This will supplant all the other deals to make it easier for all to remember and participate. ALSO – all late charges incurred up until Friday – including those that piled up before the plague descended upon the world – will be forgiven (some exceptions may apply and guilt tips accepted :)).

We will continue to offer curbside pick-up twice a week – Wednesdays and Saturdays – as doing this everyday might make my head explode. You’re still welcome to call in and reserve films any day of the week. And if anyone wants to get in and out as fast as possible, you can still pay with e-transfers. Only 5 folks in the shop at a time please and make space and time for others. And have patience. We’re all still figuring this out!

May 27/20

Last “official” curbside pick-up today at the Cambie shop because as of this Friday we will be re-opening for good (for now)! Drop us a line today at and we’ll get what you need for pick-up today from 3-6pm. Both shops will resume regular rental and sales action starting Friday (29th) from noon until 6pm. These hours will probably change in the next few weeks as we adjust to the new normal.

We will continue to offer curbside pick-up twice a week – Wednesdays and Saturdays – as doing this everyday might make my head implode. You’re still welcome to call in and reserve films any day of the week. And if anyone wants to get in and out as fast as possible, you can still pay with e-transfers.

A couple of things of note starting Friday – we will continue to offer our fabulous apocalypse deals! ~ Rent 5 catalogue titles for $15 and 3 new releases for the price of 2 – everyday of the week. This will supplant all the other deals to make it easier for all to remember and participate. ALSO – all late charges incurred up until Friday – including those that piled up before the plague descended upon the world – will be forgiven (some exceptions may apply). So get on down to the dawg, guilt free, and get renting and buying our fabulous films!

May 23/20

Open 3-6pm for all your video wants and needs today. Give up your orders online or email us at for pick-up at either shop, or pop by for a brief browse and rent! No looky-loos please. Max 5 in the store at one time. Rent 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2! See you today!

May 22/20

So tomorrow will be the last Saturday for our curb-stomp pick-up – 3-6pm – (and there will still be one at each store next week) because starting Friday the 29th we will be back in business, baby. The doors will be flung open noon until 6pm everyday until further notice. There will be more details to come as well.

If you read the previous email I mentioned the release of the films;

The Gentlemen
The Informer
Exorcism at 60,000 Feet

They are all on the shelves and ready for your enjoyment. Get your orders in online or email us at for pick-up at either shop tomorrow.

May 21/20

Our last Saturday edition of the curb-side pick-up is this weekend (23rd) at both shops. There will be one more weekday opening next week and then we’ll fling the doors open on a regular basis starting next Friday (29th)! Hours will be shortened and we’ll still be doing the online advance ordering but it will be nice to be open again and get y’all back into the shops. Our great deals – 5 catalogue films for $15 and New Releases 3 for the price of 2 will still be in play! Get your orders in online or shoot us an email at . See you all on Saturday!

One thing I’ve been asked about is having our catalogue online. We’ve attempted this over the years but failed miserably every time. We’re going to have another kick at the can soon so fingers crossed.

And in case you missed our latest newsletter, check it out here.

Personally I think that we’re jumping into the re-opening of everything a little too fast. I’d hate to see another flare-up and everyone go back into hibernation again. But I guess we’ll see what happens.

May 20/20

We’ll be open at the Cambie shop today 3-6. Shoot us your orders here or email us at for the usual rigamarole. You’re also welcome to do a bit of light browsing – renters only, no looky-loos – and we’d like to keep it to a maximum of 5 folks in the shop at any given time. Please respect each others space and time.

And as mentioned we’ll be opening on a regular basis starting Friday May 29th, Hours to be determined. Stay tuned. Get those players warmed up!

May 18/20

So it looks like we will be re-opening on a daily basis starting Friday May 29th! Yeehaw! Details will follow, of course. Until then we’re still going to do our twice a week curb-side openings at each store. Tuesday the 19th at Commercial and the following day at Cambie. Shoot us your orders here or email us at for the usual rigamarole. You’re also welcome to do a bit of light browsing – renters only, no looky-loos – and we’d like to keep it to a maximum of 5 folks in the shop at any given time. Please respect each others space and time.

May 17/20

Yes, you read that right, we’ll be open at both shops today (Sunday the 17th) 2-6pm to fulfill all of your movies dreams. Drop us a line at or use our handy dandy online order form to let us know what you’d like. You’re also welcome to do a bit of light browsing – renters only, no looky-loos – and we’d like to keep it to a maximum of 5 folks in the shop at any given time. Please respect each others space and time.

May 16-17/20

Hey everybody! With it being the long weekend and with your voracious, insatiable appetite for our films, we’ve decided to open up tomorrow – Sunday the 17th of May – for a few hours! We’ll be open at both shops 2-6 pm! Drop us a line at or use our handy dandy online order form to let us know what you’d like. You can even drop into the shops and grab stuff – come with a list if possible! Boo-yah!

May 16/20

Open today at both shops 3-6 for all your dreary-weather long-weekend movie needs and wants. Same procedure as before – get your orders in here or to asap to ensure we get to them in a timely fashion. Please limit yourselves to 4 folks in the shops at once and respect others safe space distance dealie. Five old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2!

May 15/20

The long weekend! As if that even matters to many in these plague riddled days. And with looming storm clouds on the horizon, what better way to spend the next few days then sequestered in your abode watching great movies?! We’ll be open tomorrow – both shops – 3-6pm for all your movie needs. Send us your requests online here or email us at and we’ll do our best to get what your looking for. When you do show up at the shop, please limit yourself to 4 customers at a time and don’t linger or browse. Tell us what you want and we’ll grab them for you. Five old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2! See you tomorrow.

And stay tuned for details on our re-opening plans!

May 13/20

It’s Cambie’s turn today. Open 3-6pm for all your movies needs. Send me your orders – – and I’ll do my best to have them ready for you. Note – if you don’t pick up your orders, a $5 restocking fee (or penalty) will be assessed to your account. Lots of New Releases on the shelves as well. Check out the Newsletter for details.

May 12/20

Lots of orders for today and tomorrow! Piles of new films for you! Rain in the forecast (maybe even a sweet thunderstorm!). It’s going to be a swell day! There’s still time to get your orders in for pick-up! Order online here or email me at . Rent 5 old films for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2! See you soon!

May 11/20

Tomorrow’s and Wednesday’s pick-ups are planned as scheduled. 3-6pm tomorrow at Commercial and Wednesday at Cambie. Get you orders in here or email me at . We’re still working out a few of the hiccups regarding notifications but hopefully we’ll get it straightened out by the weekend. We should have a new batch of films on the shelves (hopefully – Purolator seems confused as to what they are doing) very soon as well. I’ll do up a newsletter as soon as they arrive. And stay tuned for when we will be re-opening on a regular basis. That is all. Carry on.

May 8/20

So with the announcement this week of easing back into normal society, we’ve been talking about re-opening the shops, albeit in a limited capacity. I’m chatting with the staff and hopefully we can figure something out in the next week or so. Until then, enjoy our twice a week curb-side-pop-up events! Saturdays at both shops 3-6pm and Tuesdays at Commercial and Wednesdays at Cambie. We have a new spiffy on-line order form or you can email us at and we’ll get your requests together for pick up. Easy-peasy.

May 7/20

What a lovely day. Sorry we’re closed up this fine Thursday but we’ll be back in action this Saturday (9th) to quench your movie thirst, 3-6pm at both shops. You can place an order with this here form or email me at . Try to get your orders in before noon on Saturday.

May 6/20

We’ll be open at Cambie from 3-6 today for all your movie needs! Send us your orders on our new online form or you can still just email me at . We’ll have some new films on the shelves for you. Check out this week’s newsletter for details. Seems there may be some new information being released by the government soon about businesses re-opening . I’d love to re-open the shops but only if it’s safe and not too soon. Stay tuned for details.

May 5/20

Open today at Commercial from 3-6pm for all your pick-up needs. There’s still time to order on our new handy-dandy online order form HERE. We’ll be doing the same tomorrow at Cambie, 3-6pm. It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood. Hope to see you, neighbors!

May 4/20

New movie day! Finally! Check out this week’s newsletter for all the deets including a new order form HERE.

May 3/20

Good busy day yesterday! Thanks to all who braved the elements and the plague to pop in and rent some fine films (and drop off a beer or two!). We’ll be doing the pick-ups again this Tuesday at Commercial and Wednesday at Cambie, 3-6pm. We’ve added a handy dandy order form to make your ordering easier. Hope that it works!

May 2/20

It’s raining, it’s Saturday (at least I think it’s Saturday), and there’s a plague ravishing the land! What are you going to do today? Watch movies! That’s what I think you should do. Curbside pick-up today at both locations – 3 – 6pm. There’s still time to get your orders in – ! Details below…

May 1/20

Happy Plague Day…I mean May Day! Just a reminder – we’ll be doing our curb-side pick-up this Saturday (May 2nd) at both shops 3-6pm. There’s still time to get your orders in – send them to and we’ll do our best to have them ready for you! Also I put together a little list of Science Fiction films you may not have seen (I’ve had a few requests for this genre). It’s a work in progress so check in every now and then.

Rules of engagement:

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• please specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers (to the above address) work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay in-store with cash, debit or credit card. You decide!
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

April 30/20

Last day of the month! What do ya know?! Anyhoo, we’ll be doing our curb-side pick-up this Saturday (May 2nd) at both shops 3-6pm. (How to get involved below) We may even have a nice pile of New Releases for you (depends if they arrive tomorrow or not) Check out all the details in this week’s newsletter later today…

April 29/20

Curbside hootenanny today at Cambie shop! We’ll be open from 3-6 this afternoon for all your wants and needs. There’s still time to get your orders in – send them to and I’ll do my best to have them ready for you!

Rules of engagement:

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• please specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers (to the above address) work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay in-store with cash, debit or credit card. You decide!
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

April 28/20

Yes, we will be open at the Commercial shop this afternoon for pickups by the curbs! 3-6pm. There’s still time to get your orders in – send them to . And we’ll be open tomorrow at Cambie, same time. Read below for more information!

April 27/20

Just a quick update for those of you interested in snarfing up some films from the shops. We’ll be doing curb-side pick ups this week on Tuesday at Commercial and Wednesday at Cambie from 3-6pm. The usual rules apply – send me you requests at and I’ll do my best to have them ready for you.

Rules of engagement:

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• please specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers (to the above address) work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay in-store with cash, debit or credit card. You decide!
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

And let’s be careful out there.

April 25/20

Today’s the day! Curb-side pick-ups for you and you and, yes, even you! 3 – 6pm at both locations. There’s still time to send us your orders – – and walk away with some great entertainment to enjoy during the current plague. Details below (The April 24/20 update).

April 24/20

As mentioned yesterday, tomorrow (Saturday the 25th on your calendar) we will be doing curb-side pick-up at both shops from 3-6pm. We should have some new films for you by then as well. Check out the newsletter for details.

Rules of engagement:

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• please specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay cash or use the debit machine or call in with your credit card.
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

Hope to see your mask-covered faces tomorrow!

April 23/20

It’s that time of the week again! It’s the Black Dog Newsletter, ready and willing to creep into your eyes and take up residence in your brain! That and it has info on upcoming pick-ups and what’s new to the store! Dig in!

April 22/20

Today we will be open at the Cambie shop from 2-5 pm for some sweet curb-side pick-up action! Drop me a line – – and I’ll have your orders ready. Please specify DVD or Blu Ray. Rent 5 catalogue titles for $15 or 3 new releases for the price of 2! Hope to see you today, masks and gloves and protective goggles and all!

April 21/20

We’ll be open at the Commercial shop for pick-ups from 3-6pm today. Send me your list and I’ll get what I have ready for you. You can pay in advance (e-transfer to ) or when you get to the shop. And I’ll be at the Cambie outlet tomorrow from 2-5. Same deal.

And as mentioned yesterday, I’ve started putting together some categorized lists of some things that might interest you! Here’s a somewhat big list of Black Dog’s favourite films for the 1970s! Some say it was the greatest decade in film history. Hard to argue with these fine selections!

April 20/20

Hey, it’s get high day! Gonna be a quiet one as there won’t be thousands of stoners piling into English Bay. I’m sure they’ll survive. Couple of notes for today – I’ll be at the Commercial store tomorrow doing pick-ups 3-6 if you need anything – . I’ll be over at Cambie on Wednesday afternoon taking care of some business stuff if anyone needs anything. Probably around 2-5.

Also I’ve had a couple of requests for viewing suggestions. I’m going to put together a few lists (in addition to the many lists already on the web page) for some “under the radar” type of things that you fine folks may enjoy. Stay tuned and drop back in here to see what’s what.

April 19/20

We’re going to be doing curb-side pick ups at Commercial on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 3-6pm. Cambie on Saturday from 3-6 with the possibility of Wednesdays as well. I guess we’ll see what the response is. Please check the website for (almost) daily updates. All the information you need to know is there. Please send me your orders – – and I’ll take care you you. Please read the how to and what not listed below.

Let’s all be careful out there.

April 18/20

Here we are, a lovely Saturday. Be nice to sit on a patio, hang out with some friends, have a picnic in the park…oh wait…I guess watching movies at home are in order. Curb-side pickup today at both locations, 3-6pm! If you haven’t already, please get your orders in asap – – so we can get you what you need! Support the local economy! Netflix doesn’t need your business! Anyhoo…

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• pleases specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay cash or use the debit machine or call in with your credit card.
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

Hope to see your sheathed faces and gloved hands this afternoon!

April 17/20

Just a reminder that we’re doing a curb-side hootenanny (or pick-up I think it’s called) tomorrow (Saturday the 18th) at both shops, 3 – 6pm. Get your orders in asap. Rules for you to enjoy…

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• pleases specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay cash or use the debit machine or call in with your credit card.
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

Hope to see you’re happy mask-covered faces tomorrow!

April 15/20

Thanks to everyone who came in and rented tons of movies yesterday! And thanks to those who brought in such lovely gifts (Windfall Cider – so good!, delicious RB Beer – yum!, even a little cash here and there!). It was a lovely day and most def will help pay the bills. We’ll be doing it again this weekend at both shops. I will be helming the ship at Commercial and RJ will be back in the saddle over at Cambie. Send me your orders – – and we’ll do our best to get the films into your latex sheathed hands. Things to remember:

• please specify DVD or Blu Ray and have some back up requests in case we don’t have everything that you’re looking for. Remember our deals – 5 old titles for $15 or 3 New Releases for the price of 2.
• pleases specify which store you will be picking up at. Very important for obvious reasons.
• e-transfers work great for fast and easy in and out service. You can also pay cash or use the debit machine or call in with your credit card.
• bring a bag, keep a safe distance from fellow travelers and be patient (what else do you have to do?)
• please return your films as others would like to take them home.

We’ll see how this joint opening goes as we’re aiming to do this twice a week at each store.

April 14/20

Looks like a beautiful day in the neighborhood for a curb-stomp pick-up! I’ll be at the Commercial shop from 3-6pm today for all of your rental needs and wants. It’s not too late to send me an order – – (it’s 9am) so get on that horse. I’ll have a few new releases (check newsletter on this site) but quantities are limited. If you have films out, please return them so others can enjoy them. See you…from a distance.

April 13/20

As mentioned yesterday, curb-side pick-up will be available tomorrow at the Commercial shop. I’m looking to do one at each location this weekend as well. Details will be forthcoming. Things to remember when sending me your orders: specify DVD or Blue Ray, specify which store and how you’d like to pay, bring a bag, return you films. Be spacious, be nice. I think that’s about it.

We should have some new films on the shelves tomorrow or very soon. But on that subject I should let you know that quantities will be limited as I’ve had to cut the number of New Releases (for obvious reasons) and those of you looking for The Gentlemen or Underwater (I want to see both!) we will not have these for the next while as the facilities that make them are closed for the moment. We will get them but I can’t say when.

April 12/20

Great day at the Cambie shop yesterday! Thanks to all who braved the plague riddled streets to stock up on films. Nice to see so many familiar faces! And now it’s Commercial Drive’s turn! This Tuesday from 3-6 we’ll be doing the curb-side pick-up. No access to the store so send me your orders – – and I’ll do what I can to get them ready for you. E-transfer or cash works best. Also if you have some films, our return boxes are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week at both shops. Be safe!

April 11/20

Today’s the Day! Curb-side pick-up at the Cambie shop, 3-6pm. Email me your orders – and I’ll get them ready. E-Transfer, call with CC or cash on pick-up. Bring your own bag if you have one. Return you films if you have them. Be nice. Be spacious. Be.

April 9/20

In case you missed yesterday’s newsletter (on this site under “Newsletter”) I just want to let you know that this Saturday (11th) we’ll be doing a curbside pick-up at the Cambie shop from 3 – 6pm. Email me your requests – – and I’ll get what we have ready for you. Then I will email you the price and, if you can, e-transfer me the money. Or you can call the store with your credit card info or pay in cash upon pick-up. There will be no access to the shop itself (remember the plague?) and my debit machine doesn’t reach to the door. We will do one at Commercial next Tuesday, same time (unless things change).

Also if you have DVDs and Blu Rays you’ve rented and are comfortable returning them, please do so. Our return boxes are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Cheers!

Also – slight price increase with our 5 old film deal – $15 is now the going rate for 5 fabulous titles. Still a great deal and we do have bills to pay. Thanks for understanding.

April 7/20

After much consideration and mind-thinking, I am going to try one more approach to get our films into your eyes – curb-side pick-up! There will be no access to the shops. Send me your list of films you want, I’ll get them ready and email you back with the $ total (I’ll actually give myself some more time to be able to do this – learned from last Saturday’s gong-show), you pre-pay either with e-transfer or call in with your credit card and then you zoom over in your jalopy or preferred method of transportation and snarf them all up! If you don’t/can’t/won’t be able to pay with this method, then cash is acceptable upon pick-up. No debit/credit card machine will be available as it won’t reach to the front of the shop. Also, I want to continue with our nice deals but there will be a slight price adjustment to the catalogue titles – 5 from our amazing collection for $15 will be the new price. The bills are starting to pile up. I hope that this works for everyone. Stay tuned for date and time.

April 5/20

So a reminder – the “pop-up” opening at Cambie today (Sunday) is cancelled. We won’t be doing another one for a while (if at all). We’re just going to see which way the wind blows with this plague thingy. That said, we’re tirelessly working on other means to get our amazing films films into your scrubbed and clean hands. Stay tuned on that front.

And I just wanted to give a big thank-you shout out to all who came by yesterday to grab films among the chaos (and only 2 no-shows out of over 30 orders, not too bad). It was crazy busy and I apologize if folks had to wait extra long (and I hope I got the right films into your hands) but I wasn’t expecting the response that we got and was quite overwhelmed. It warms this cold dead heart to see so many folks who are still interested in what we do. I’m hoping this can continue into the future – whatever that may look like. Cheers to you all!

April 3/20

So tomorrow (at the Commercial shop) will be our last pop-up for a while. Sunday at Cambie is cancelled. I’ve been getting slightly wigged-out as of late what with all this plague bugaboo and what not. There’s still too many folks not adhering to the rules of conduct laid out by us. I don’t want to be that guy that gets it and spreads it around- especially to my family. So we’re taking a break. That and I had 5 folks place orders and then not show up at Cambie yesterday which was a bummer. So, as usual, place your orders here – – and I’ll do my best to have them ready for you. Specify DVD or Blu Ray. Pay in advance if you can – e-transfer works to address above. See you tomorrow (briefly please) and then…stay tuned…

April 1/20

Sorry, no April Fool’s joke this year. Some truth I can lay down for you and you can pick it up and do whatever you like with it is…I’ll be at the Commercial shop today noon until 3 for all of your movie wants and needs. Send me a list – – – and I’ll have them ready for you or come on in and pick something out – just don’t spend too much time in shop if that’s cool. And as usual, our fabulous deals will be in effect – Rent 2 New Releases, get a 3rd FREE, 5 catalogue films (non-new releases) for $10. If you want to pay in advance you can e-transfer me to the above email address or call in with your credit card. In-store payment is fine as well. I’ll be at the Cambie shop tomorrow – all rules and regulations mentioned above apply.

March 30/20

I’d like to continue with our little “pop-up” events (for lack of a better term – “Dog Openings”? That sounds kinda gross) for a while. I was thinking of doing twice a week at each location as long as there’s folks who want to still come in and rent. Saturday and Wednesday at Commercial and Sunday and Thursday at Cambie. Noon till 3 at both shops. How does that grab you? And as usual, our fabulous deals will be in effect – Rent 2 New Releases, get a 3rd FREE, 5 catalogue films (non-new releases) for $10. Send me your requests and I’ll do my best to get them ready for pick-up –

March 29/20

I will be at the Cambie shop from 1 until 3 (or later if it’s still busy). Please send me your orders and I’ll do my best to get them ready for you – blackdogvid@gmail. And remember our rules of conduct:

• no more than 3-4 humans in the store at one time
• please don’t handle the actual movie boxes, just tell me what you want
• no browsing. If you need help finding things, just ask
• do not lurch up to the desk and lean in and on the desk. Please respect the tape on the floor as it is not purely decorative.
• be respectful of everyone in the store and stay a safe distance. No high-fiving, chest bumping, twerking or secret handshakes

March 28/20

So after a successful opening today at Commercial, I think we’re going to see if we can settle in to some sort of schedule for these pop-up openings. Details to follow. That said, I”l be at the Cambie shop tomorrow from 1-3ish for all your movie needs and wants and needs. As before, if you can shoot me an email – – I’ll do my best to get ready your order. And please follow our rules of conduct listed below. See you tomorrow!

March 27/20

So it looks like we’ll have a bunch of new releases very soon (come on Purolator, don’t screw this up). I’m going to do a pop-up tomorrow (Saturday the 28th) at the Commercial shop between noon and 3 pm (and possibly one on Sunday at Cambie). Send me your orders here – – and I’ll have them ready. If you want to pay ahead of time (preferred) you can e-transfer me your $$$ to the same email and I’ll bring them outside for you. Bring a bag. Specify DVD or Blu Ray. I’ll get your order together tomorrow (depends what is in stock) and email you the total. We want to be as safe and responsible as we can during the plague.

If you do come into the shop, please follow these rules of conduct as we want everyone (including myself) to be as safe as possible:

• no more than 3-4 humans in the store at one time
• please don’t handle the actual movie boxes, just tell me what you want
• no browsing. If you need help finding things, just ask
• do not lurch up to the desk and lean in and on the desk. Please respect the tape on the floor as it is not purely decorative.
• be respectful of everyone in the store and stay a safe distance. No high-fiving, chest bumping, twerking or secret handshakes.

Check out our newsletter later today to see what is arriving (if it arrives today). You can find it on the website (under “Newsletter”).

March 26th/20

So after doing a couple of successful pop-up openings at each store, we’re going to continue with this little idea until we’re not allowed to anymore. I want all of you fine folks to have access to our sweet library of films to help you get through these weird, dark times. This Saturday at the Commercial Shop we’ll be open noon until 3pm. We may have a crop of New Releases for you as well. Check in here tomorrow and Saturday to see what’s what and gimme your list of requests – . Pleases specify DVD or Blu Ray and bring your own bags.

March 24/20

Update! Seems I’ve got quite a few folks looking to pop by tomorrow (Wednesday the 25th) and get a few things. I’ll be at the Commercial shop from noon until 2 if you need anything. I’m thinking this town will be heading for lock-down soon so I don’t know how many more chances we’ll have to get movies into your cute little hands. Shoot me a list – and come by and get some!

So it’s officially official, both locations are now closed. Hopefully there will be some economic relief for everyone soon. Seems that there are new announcements being made everyday. I’d hate not to be able to re-open when the air is cleared but I’m sure that we’ll figure something out. We’re all in this together, right?  That said, you can still rent! Send me your requests – – and I’ll do my best to accommodate you. I’ll put together your films and you can phone in with your credit card and pay and then pick them up or, if you’re reasonably close, we can deliver to your abode. You can also pay cash on pick-up. The Commercial location works best for me but I will be going over to the Cambie shop every now and then. I will be at the Cambie shop from noon until about 2 today if you need anything. Take care, stay strong, stay inside the best you can. Stupid virus.

March 23/20

So today is the last day that the Commercial branch of Black Dog Video will be open. Noon to 8pm. Come in and stock up. Deals are in play. But don’t fret, you can still rent from us! I’ll be visiting the stores a few times during the week and if you send me your orders of what you’d like, I’ll do my best to get them ready for curb-side pick up. Tomorrow (Tuesday the 24th) I’ll be at the Cambie store from noon until 2 pm or so. If you want to drop by, please do so but it would be easier for all if you shoot me what you’d like in advance – .

I’ll be more readily available at the Commercial store as I live down the block so feel free to email me and we can make arrangements.. I’ll be there this weekend with a bunch of New Releases and at Cambie next week with them! Not too sure when they’re arriving but I’ll send out another note with all that info when I get it.

March 22/20

Black Dog COMMERCIAL to CLOSE this TUESDAY!

Tomorrow will be the last day of operations at the Commercial shop. Come in today or tomorrow (good idea to know what you want), call ahead or email me at with your orders and we’ll do our best to get you in and out of the shop quicker. No browsing, please. We will be allowing no more than 8-9 folks in the store at any given time so please be patient and give each other the space needed for everyone’s safety (including ours). We have taped off the floor for you to stand a safe distance from other movie lovers so please heed this and don’t lean on or slop all over the desk.

Rentals will not have a return time so feel free to keep them longer than the usual rental period (but not too long so you don’t lose or wreck them). Return them at your leisure or we can arrange a pick-up.

We can also arrange for you to get films while were closed. Shoot me an email (address above) and I’ll do my best to fill an order for you that you can pick-up or we can arrange delivery (if it’s not too far). Unfortunately I don’t have a vehicle so we will only be offering this service at the Commercial location. That said, I’ll be popping into Cambie every now and then to take care of this and that so we can arrange something as well.

This is it people. Who knows what the future holds? I hope to be able to re-open when and if we all survive this. See you on the other side.

March 21/20

Black Dog on CAMBIE is now CLOSED!

After consulting with the staff, we have decided to CLOSE the Cambie shop, effective IMMEDIATELY. We want our amazing staff and our wonderful customers, many of whom are in the at-risk category, to be safe and healthy in these trying times. Until we get a handle on this virus currently plaguing our world the shop will remain closed. The COMMERCIAL location is still  OPEN for the time being but that may change at any time. All CAMBIE customers are welcome to rent or buy whatever they need from the COMMERCIAL shop. Also, we can arrange for a time- window to be open at CAMBIE for special orders – maybe a few hours one or two days during the week. Send me your orders at and I’ll do my best to get you what you need.

Those of you who have films out at the moment, feel free to hang on to them for a while if you wish but we will need them back eventually. We’ll be emptying the return box every few days.

Sorry for the short notice but the decision was reached last night. I hope it’s not too inconvenient for y’all but this is where we’re at.

Take care and stay healthy and wash yourselves!

March 20/20

The Black Dog Rules of Engagement and Conduct: Vancovid-19 Edition!

To make sure everyone stays healthy and safe we ask that while in or near the shops that:

• give everyone enough room to feel comfortable and safe. No touching or licking other patrons. Respect, people.
• please don’t spend too much time in the shops, maybe have a list ready for when you arrive and we’ll do our best to get you in and out.
• please, no browsing. If you’re not renting or buying anything, please refrain from entering the stores. Go hang out at the park, or better yet, stay home.
• if you need extended time on weekly rentals or pick up or delivery let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
• be patient, be nice, and we’ll all get through this together.
• Open noon until 8pm. Our fabulous deals in effect. Both shops.

March 19/20

Business as usual today. Same deals. Same opening and closing – noon to 8pm, both locations. Please be patient and aware of others surroundings. We’ve been taking measures to help ensure everyone’s good health – disinfecting all movie cases, wiping down the counters, debit machines, door handles, Dylan. If you’re going to self-immolate (I think that’s the correct phrase, no?) you’re welcome to call ahead and we’ll do our best to have your requests ready for pick-up.

March 18/20

Open noon until 8pm today – both locations. We’d like to encourage the use of the tap function on our money machines, or whatever they’re called, as to reduce the handling of cash (I’m sure the credit card companies are on board for this). But, of course, we will still take your money! Phone or email us with your requests and we’ll do our best to have your films waiting for you to pick up. We can also deliver to your home if you are in the at risk portion of the population and are close by the store (we’ll be on foot!). When in the shops, please respect others personal space and no licking each other (or yourselves).

March 17/20

To keep up with the ever changing situation we are adjusting the store hours (again, sorry). At Cambie we’re going to be open noon until 8pm (maybe later on the weekends or if the store is busy at 8). Commercial will remain the same – noon til 10 – for now, but that may change as well.

And sorry if there was any confusion about the deals we have going on (I forgot to inform one of my employees) but this is what we have for you everyday until this thing is over:

5 catalogue films for $10! They rent for a week (if you need some things longer, let us know)

Rent 2 New Releases and get a 3rd for FREE.

Also if you’re in a buying mood, our $5 DVDs and Blu Rays for sale can be snarfed up for a nice “buy 2 and get a 3rd for FREE” extravaganza.

These deals will be in effect everyday until we decide that they are not.

March 16/20

We are open today as we are an essential service (!). We don’t know what the future holds but if you need some movies and such for your social isolation distancing, hit us up. 2 for 1 on all rentals today! Buy 2 of our $5 films and get a 3rd for FREE.

March 14/20

Hello and thanks for tuning in for this special report brought to you by the fine folks at Black Dog Video. We just wanted to let you know that it is business as usual at both locations, so no need to freak out yet. Regular hours will continue for the foreseeable future. But here’s a few things we’d like you to know:

We’ve put together some sweet quarantine deals!

5 catalogue films for $10!

Rent 2 New Releases and get a 3rd for FREE.

Also if you’re in a buying mood, our $5 DVDs and Blu Rays for sale can be snarfed up for a nice “buy 2 and get a 3rd for FREE” extravaganza.

These deals will be in effect everyday until we decide that they are not.

Also, according to The WHO (not the famous rock band), no more than 50 people will be allowed in the store at any given time.

Hello friends and welcome to Black Dog Video. We are one of the last remaining video stores in the city of Vancouver and maybe even Canada and definitely the universe. We’ve managed to stay around due to our fantastic collection of DVDs and Blu Rays and our most excellent customer service. We specialize in cult, foreign, documentaries, horror, classics, directors, comedy, queer, animation and, of course, all the new stuff. Pop into either location, chat with our amazing staff and walk out with something wonderful. Hope to see you soon.

Our hours are as follows…

Cambie St – Monday to Thursday – 2:00 till 10:00pm

Friday, Saturday and Sunday – noon till 10pm.

Commercial Drive – Everyday – noon till 10pm.

Special Events!

Deals! Deals! Deals!

To make your movie renting experience even more enjoyable and profound we have a series of weekday deals!

~ Mondays is rent 2 for 1 day. Anything in the store. Anything.

~Wednesdays come in snatch up 5 older films (we have thousands of amazing titles!) for only $10!

~ Sundays, Tuesday and Thursdays if you rent 2 you can nab a 3rd title (of equal or lesser value) for FREE!

In addition to these stellar deals may we offer you one of our prepaid movie cards? $44.00 (plus tax) will net you 10 rentals! (Up to 2 free rentals!) Sweet.

Our regular rental prices are nothing to sneeze at either ~ $5.99 for a new release – good for 2 days and $4.99 for an old catalogue title – good for a week. New TV goes for $4.99 a disk and old title TV disks will set you back $3.99. If you rent an entire season of a TV show – $10. You read that right, $10!

Pretty, pretty, pretty good of you ask me.

Those are good things! ~ Giant floating head.