Sometimes I feel like the companies who design and create the packaging for DVDs have never tried to open one their own before. What constitutes “good enough” when it comes to sealing a new DVD such as the Curious George DVD I bought for my kids tonight? How many lines of defense must I go through in order to watch the DVD and, when I finally get it open, will I have enough time to actually watch the movie? These are the questions I ask myself as I make my way through several layers of protection in order to get to a $15 DVD.
First there’s the paper wrapper that slides off quite easily. Now the more difficult jobs arise as I try to pry up an end to the very tight, probably heated on clear plastic wrapper. There’s no end to pull or small edge to grab and rip across like they put on packs of gum. I usually pry an end up with my teeth, scissors or pen, none of which work very well. Once I get the outside wrapper off I always try to open the case. Once again I’m reminded it’s not supposed to be that easy as I notice three sides of the case are sealed tight with a clear, four inch tape. If I thought the outside wrapper was tough to pry up, this clear tape is nearly impossible to remove unless you have very strong fingernails. This is when I pull out the scissors again and try to stab it open. This usually just rips holes in the DVD cover yet seldom gets rid of the tape which has taken my DVD hostage with no rescue in sight.
Eventually the fight for the movie ends and I claim victory. And if time permits, I might even have time to watch the movie.
Nordquist Blog 