Getting hold of foreign films (especially obscure ones) on DVD is nearly impossible on the high street unless you have a specialist shop near you and even then they can be quite expensive. Although I usually only buy a DVD if I see a film I really like (whether it be in the cinema or by other means) I have found a number of useful online outlets which offer great value for money and have large selections of stuff you can’t get locally (in the UK that is). I’ve compiled a short list below of the good ones but always remember to purchase with discretion when buying online, especially from abroad, in general:
- Only buy from reputable stores which have a solid track record and/or have been recommended to you by people who have bought from them before.
- Always check that the connection is secure (a small padlock symbol should appear in the corner of your browser window) when entering credit card details etc.
- If something looks too good to be true then it probably is.
- Check how long delivery will take. Watch for additional charges such as VAT, customs duties, delivery and packaging. Some of these might be hidden.
- Check your credit account and bank account statements regularly. If you find an error or discrepancy, notify the financial institution and contest the error immediately.
Now onto the list:
- Amazon.co.uk – Always my first stop, they have a smallish collection of Japanese and Chinese films.
- CD Wow! – Good selection of Asian films, very cheap (no longer active).
- mrKwang – Retailer of Korean DVD’s & CD’s, lots of unique stuff (no longer active).
- YesAsia – Large catalogue of just about everything Asian, free delivery to the UK.
- cdJapan – Sells music/anime/movies, all prices in yen though.
If you’re looking for Region 1 releases then the best place to look is probably playusa.com (no longer active).
If you know of any other good places please add a comment below!
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