Kassel
Erzbergerstraße 12, 34117 Kassel, Deutschland
Film-Shop - Oldest Video Store in the World | Opening Hours & Program
The Film-Shop in Kassel is not an ordinary store for films, but a cultural exception with real history. Those searching for the oldest video store in the world will find it at Erzbergerstraße 12, a project that has been connecting film passion, collecting culture, and local event work since the 1970s. From a rental for Super-8 films in Wolfsanger, a permanent location in Kassel was established in 1978, which today combines an archive with over 20,000 titles, a small museum, a neighborhood cinema, and a multifaceted program under one roof. This very mix makes the Film-Shop so interesting for people who are not just looking for an address but for a story. The location is a piece of Kassel's film culture, a meeting point for cinephiles, and at the same time a place where analog media, rarities, and curated events remain visible. So, anyone looking for opening hours, programs, photos, or reviews is essentially searching for a special form of film culture that is hardly found elsewhere. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
History of the Oldest Video Store in Kassel
The history of the Film-Shop begins with Eckhard Baum, who was born in 1938 in Berlin-Zehlendorf and developed a close relationship with film early on. In 1975, he opened the Film-Shop in Kassel-Wolfsanger, renting out Super-8 feature films; three years later, the store followed at Erzbergerstraße 12. This development is interesting not only for Kassel but for the entire media history because the Film-Shop anticipated the idea that later became commonplace as home cinema and private film culture. According to official sources, the Film-Shop was entered into the Guinness Book of Records in 1998 as the oldest video store in the world, and Ecki Baum was honored as the oldest video librarian. Thus, the status is not just a local myth but historically documented and has grown over the years. The fact that the Film-Shop was not simply transformed into a nostalgia museum but continues to thrive makes the place even more remarkable. In 2017, Christoph Langguth and Ralf Stadler, together with Randfilm, took over the management. Since then, the Film-Shop has remained a rental and sales location but has also become the headquarters and main venue for regular film screenings, concerts, and readings. Thus, an early film rental idea developed into a multifaceted cultural model that connects historical media practice with contemporary use. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/film-shop-kasseldie-geschichte-der-aeltesten-videothek-der-welt/))
Particularly exciting is that the history of the Film-Shop has never been linear in the sense of a classic business trajectory but has always been shaped by cultural development. Already in the 1990s, further film-related activities gathered around Eckhard Baum, including documentaries, contacts in the film scene, and a growing reputation far beyond Kassel. In 2017, a rescue movement emerged in Kassel when Randfilm averted the impending closure and gave the place a new future. This did not simply lead to a change of ownership but a transformation process: The Film-Shop remained a place for borrowing but simultaneously became a stage for discussions about film history, a meeting point for creative networks, and a showcase for analog media culture. The city of Kassel still describes the location as a mix of a large film collection and a small museum that houses over 20,000 titles and is supplemented week by week with classics and obscure films. This combination of inventory, continuity, and development makes the Film-Shop a rare example of how a historical media location can remain relevant in the present. For search queries such as history, oldest video store, or Guinness Book, the Film-Shop is therefore not just a meeting point but a concrete proof of lived film history in Kassel. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Program in the Neighborhood Cinema and Special Events
The neighborhood cinema is one of the most important reasons why the Film-Shop is much more than a nostalgic video store today. On the official site, it is described as the smallest cinema in Kassel, an off-cinema, concert hall, and space for lost films. This captures the character of the place very well: Here, interchangeable mainstream programs do not run, but rather obscure masterpieces, marginal debuts, and forgotten classics that would hardly have a chance in regular cinema operations. At the same time, the neighborhood cinema can be rented for various occasions, making the location interesting for private or cultural formats. The connection to the Randfilm network is particularly important because it is through this that series emerge that understand film not just as a commodity but as a topic for discussion. The official program page shows a vibrant spectrum of cinema days, Randfilm Nights, readings, music formats, special events, and the regularly occurring cinema regulars' table. Thus, the neighborhood cinema becomes a place where film screenings, discussions, and scene culture meet. The award of the Hessian Film Prize in 2023 and 2024 further emphasizes that this is not a marginal phenomenon but a recognized venue with a profile. So, anyone looking for Film-Shop programs or tickets is not just searching for an event list but for a curated cultural offering with a stance. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/kiezkino/))
Also, the program focuses on diversity instead of routine. On the current pages, in addition to film evenings, there are formats such as multimedia readings, football broadcasts in a cultural context, music evenings, and special theme series. This shows that the Film-Shop consciously keeps its program open and productively blurs the boundaries between cinema, scene meeting, reading stage, and cultural space. This openness fits the history of the house, as the Film-Shop is not a sterile event location but a lively meeting point with its own signature. Those who visit the place often experience a mix of conversation, collection, film, and community. The Randfilm Nights and the regular series are particularly interesting for visitors who specifically seek unusual films, special screenings, or a unique atmosphere. Due to the small size of the neighborhood cinema, a very immediate viewing experience is also created: close to the film, close to the screen, and close to the other guests. For search intents like program, tickets, or events, this is particularly valuable because the place does not focus on mass but on a clear curatorial perspective. The Film-Shop thus stands for a form of cultural work that connects local identity with cinematic spirit of discovery and simultaneously focuses clearly on community, exchange, and rediscovery. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/kiezkino/))
Video Store, Selection, and Rental in the Film-Shop
The video store itself is the heart of the Film-Shop. Here it quickly becomes clear why the place still has relevance: The selection is not limited to a single medium or current novelties but is deliberately broad. According to the official website, there are Blu-rays, DVDs, video cassettes, Laserdiscs, Super-8 films, books, T-shirts, exhibitions, and cinema. This mix is particularly appealing to film fans because it makes the historical development of home cinema visible while also having a very practical benefit. The Film-Shop does not see itself as a museum behind glass but as a living archive. The film archive comprises over 20,000 films, and week by week new releases, classics, and special titles are added. An important point here is the discovery quality: The sources explicitly mention that many titles are included that are not available online or are difficult to find. This creates added value compared to purely digital offerings. The store thus not only provides access but also selection, curation, and surprise. The atmosphere of classic video store flair remains intact, even though the use today is more modern and diverse than in the early years. For people looking for Film-Shop video store, film inventory, or rare titles, this is a strong argument. The presence of books, posters, and T-shirts complements the film collection with collectible companion products and makes the visit even more of an experience between store, archive, and pop culture. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/videothek/))
The rental conditions are also clearly and visitor-friendly structured. According to the official video store page, a single film costs 1.50 euros, a 3-film package 4.00 euros, and a 5-film package 6.00 euros; with a club card, reduced prices apply, and the membership card is available for 12 euros per year. This transparency is important because it positions the Film-Shop as a low-threshold place where cultural participation does not have to be expensive. At the same time, it becomes clear that the inventory is designed for active use and not just for mere viewing while passing by. The combination of new and used items, rarities and classics, as well as media from different generations is particularly attractive for film fans who like to browse and take their time. In this regard, the Film-Shop is a classic place of finding rather than searching because one does not just pick up what one already knows but often stumbles upon titles that one would have overlooked online. The store concept is surprisingly modern, even though it comes from an analog era: physical selection, personal advice, genuine surprise, and a selection that convinces through its materiality. So, anyone looking for tickets, rentals, or Film-Shop opening hours should understand the location not just as a mere store but as a curated media world. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/videothek/))
Opening Hours, Address, and Practical Planning
For practical planning, the Film-Shop is pleasantly uncomplicated. The official contact page lists the address as Erzbergerstraße 12, 34117 Kassel, the phone number as 0561 17538, and the email address as info@film-shop.org. The regular opening hours are Monday to Friday from 18:00 to 21:00 and Saturday from 15:00 to 21:00. For events, different times apply, which is completely logical for a place with a cinema and cultural program. The city of Kassel also directly refers to maps, a route planner, and public transport connections, making it easier for visitors to arrive. This is especially helpful for people visiting the Film-Shop for the first time and not just looking for a program point but for a concrete destination in Kassel. The location on Erzbergerstraße is ideal for evening visits, as rental, events, and city strolls can be well combined. So, anyone looking for opening hours, contact, or directions will find clear and current information at the Film-Shop instead of vague hints. This is a decisive advantage in today's visit planning because reliability counts, especially for culture-oriented places. The Film-Shop shows here that analog places can very well meet modern service expectations when they are communicated clearly. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Practically interesting is also that the arrival works not only for a quick rental visit but also for longer cultural evenings. Those attending an event should keep an eye on the different times, as program evenings can naturally differ from standard opening hours. This is not a disadvantage but a sign that the place is being used vibrantly. For internal SEO logic, terms like contact, opening hours, directions, and program are particularly relevant because they reflect the most common user questions. The Film-Shop is also very suitable for people who want to combine their planning with two goals: first borrowing films or browsing in the shop, then attending a neighborhood cinema event or a reading. From a visitor's perspective, this makes sense because the place is simultaneously a store, archive, and stage. Those looking for images or reviews usually want to know in advance how the place feels and whether the journey is worth it. This is exactly why the clear opening hours, the official address, and the direct public transport connection are so helpful. They lower the barrier and make the visit planable without destroying the special atmosphere. Thus, a very useful interplay of practical information and cultural uniqueness emerges. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Images, Reviews, and What Makes the Film-Shop So Special
Those searching for images or photos of the Film-Shop quickly notice that the place is visually well documented. The official website works with image material from history, video store, neighborhood cinema, shop, and events, so one already gets a good impression of the atmosphere, space, and self-understanding online. This is important because the Film-Shop does not appear as an interchangeable sales room but as a place with style and its own signature. Especially the mix of historical media formats, cinema area, and collection character makes images here meaningful: One does not just see shelves but a whole narrative about film culture. For search queries like images of Film-Shop Kassel or Film-Shop photos, this is helpful because interested parties can quickly recognize whether they expect a nostalgic, curated, or rather pragmatic place. In the available location data, the Film-Shop is also rated very highly, with 4.9 stars from 71 reviews. This fits the general perception as a cult place that is appreciated by many visitors not only for its historical status but also for its commitment. Independent travel portals also describe the Film-Shop as an ongoing video store and museum with event character, which aptly captures the mix of nostalgia and vibrant use. For reviews, it is particularly interesting that the place is experienced as very independent and authentic. ([tripadvisor.com](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187342-d14093021-Reviews-Film_Shop-Kassel_Hesse.html?utm_source=openai))
Particularly strong is the Film-Shop where other places have long given up: It connects material film memory with contemporary use. This very tension creates attraction. One does not come just to borrow a film but also to experience a place where film history remains visible and tangible. This makes the location attractive for search intents like reviews, photos, history, and program. Those reading reviews usually seek an assessment: Is this just a curious relic or indeed a worthwhile place? The facts provide a very clear answer: The Film-Shop is historically relevant, curatorially active, and culturally recognized. It has been awarded as the oldest video store in the world, houses an archive with over 20,000 titles, shows unusual films in the neighborhood cinema, and offers a regular event program. Added to this are the friendly personal character and the grown local anchoring in Kassel. For visitors, this is a rare combination of authenticity, discovery, and utility. Therefore, those visiting the Film-Shop do not simply get a branch but a cultural context. This is exactly what distinguishes it from many other places and explains why it frequently appears in search engines alongside words like images, photos, reviews, history, and program. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Sources:
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Film-Shop - Oldest Video Store in the World | Opening Hours & Program
The Film-Shop in Kassel is not an ordinary store for films, but a cultural exception with real history. Those searching for the oldest video store in the world will find it at Erzbergerstraße 12, a project that has been connecting film passion, collecting culture, and local event work since the 1970s. From a rental for Super-8 films in Wolfsanger, a permanent location in Kassel was established in 1978, which today combines an archive with over 20,000 titles, a small museum, a neighborhood cinema, and a multifaceted program under one roof. This very mix makes the Film-Shop so interesting for people who are not just looking for an address but for a story. The location is a piece of Kassel's film culture, a meeting point for cinephiles, and at the same time a place where analog media, rarities, and curated events remain visible. So, anyone looking for opening hours, programs, photos, or reviews is essentially searching for a special form of film culture that is hardly found elsewhere. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
History of the Oldest Video Store in Kassel
The history of the Film-Shop begins with Eckhard Baum, who was born in 1938 in Berlin-Zehlendorf and developed a close relationship with film early on. In 1975, he opened the Film-Shop in Kassel-Wolfsanger, renting out Super-8 feature films; three years later, the store followed at Erzbergerstraße 12. This development is interesting not only for Kassel but for the entire media history because the Film-Shop anticipated the idea that later became commonplace as home cinema and private film culture. According to official sources, the Film-Shop was entered into the Guinness Book of Records in 1998 as the oldest video store in the world, and Ecki Baum was honored as the oldest video librarian. Thus, the status is not just a local myth but historically documented and has grown over the years. The fact that the Film-Shop was not simply transformed into a nostalgia museum but continues to thrive makes the place even more remarkable. In 2017, Christoph Langguth and Ralf Stadler, together with Randfilm, took over the management. Since then, the Film-Shop has remained a rental and sales location but has also become the headquarters and main venue for regular film screenings, concerts, and readings. Thus, an early film rental idea developed into a multifaceted cultural model that connects historical media practice with contemporary use. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/film-shop-kasseldie-geschichte-der-aeltesten-videothek-der-welt/))
Particularly exciting is that the history of the Film-Shop has never been linear in the sense of a classic business trajectory but has always been shaped by cultural development. Already in the 1990s, further film-related activities gathered around Eckhard Baum, including documentaries, contacts in the film scene, and a growing reputation far beyond Kassel. In 2017, a rescue movement emerged in Kassel when Randfilm averted the impending closure and gave the place a new future. This did not simply lead to a change of ownership but a transformation process: The Film-Shop remained a place for borrowing but simultaneously became a stage for discussions about film history, a meeting point for creative networks, and a showcase for analog media culture. The city of Kassel still describes the location as a mix of a large film collection and a small museum that houses over 20,000 titles and is supplemented week by week with classics and obscure films. This combination of inventory, continuity, and development makes the Film-Shop a rare example of how a historical media location can remain relevant in the present. For search queries such as history, oldest video store, or Guinness Book, the Film-Shop is therefore not just a meeting point but a concrete proof of lived film history in Kassel. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Program in the Neighborhood Cinema and Special Events
The neighborhood cinema is one of the most important reasons why the Film-Shop is much more than a nostalgic video store today. On the official site, it is described as the smallest cinema in Kassel, an off-cinema, concert hall, and space for lost films. This captures the character of the place very well: Here, interchangeable mainstream programs do not run, but rather obscure masterpieces, marginal debuts, and forgotten classics that would hardly have a chance in regular cinema operations. At the same time, the neighborhood cinema can be rented for various occasions, making the location interesting for private or cultural formats. The connection to the Randfilm network is particularly important because it is through this that series emerge that understand film not just as a commodity but as a topic for discussion. The official program page shows a vibrant spectrum of cinema days, Randfilm Nights, readings, music formats, special events, and the regularly occurring cinema regulars' table. Thus, the neighborhood cinema becomes a place where film screenings, discussions, and scene culture meet. The award of the Hessian Film Prize in 2023 and 2024 further emphasizes that this is not a marginal phenomenon but a recognized venue with a profile. So, anyone looking for Film-Shop programs or tickets is not just searching for an event list but for a curated cultural offering with a stance. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/kiezkino/))
Also, the program focuses on diversity instead of routine. On the current pages, in addition to film evenings, there are formats such as multimedia readings, football broadcasts in a cultural context, music evenings, and special theme series. This shows that the Film-Shop consciously keeps its program open and productively blurs the boundaries between cinema, scene meeting, reading stage, and cultural space. This openness fits the history of the house, as the Film-Shop is not a sterile event location but a lively meeting point with its own signature. Those who visit the place often experience a mix of conversation, collection, film, and community. The Randfilm Nights and the regular series are particularly interesting for visitors who specifically seek unusual films, special screenings, or a unique atmosphere. Due to the small size of the neighborhood cinema, a very immediate viewing experience is also created: close to the film, close to the screen, and close to the other guests. For search intents like program, tickets, or events, this is particularly valuable because the place does not focus on mass but on a clear curatorial perspective. The Film-Shop thus stands for a form of cultural work that connects local identity with cinematic spirit of discovery and simultaneously focuses clearly on community, exchange, and rediscovery. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/kiezkino/))
Video Store, Selection, and Rental in the Film-Shop
The video store itself is the heart of the Film-Shop. Here it quickly becomes clear why the place still has relevance: The selection is not limited to a single medium or current novelties but is deliberately broad. According to the official website, there are Blu-rays, DVDs, video cassettes, Laserdiscs, Super-8 films, books, T-shirts, exhibitions, and cinema. This mix is particularly appealing to film fans because it makes the historical development of home cinema visible while also having a very practical benefit. The Film-Shop does not see itself as a museum behind glass but as a living archive. The film archive comprises over 20,000 films, and week by week new releases, classics, and special titles are added. An important point here is the discovery quality: The sources explicitly mention that many titles are included that are not available online or are difficult to find. This creates added value compared to purely digital offerings. The store thus not only provides access but also selection, curation, and surprise. The atmosphere of classic video store flair remains intact, even though the use today is more modern and diverse than in the early years. For people looking for Film-Shop video store, film inventory, or rare titles, this is a strong argument. The presence of books, posters, and T-shirts complements the film collection with collectible companion products and makes the visit even more of an experience between store, archive, and pop culture. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/videothek/))
The rental conditions are also clearly and visitor-friendly structured. According to the official video store page, a single film costs 1.50 euros, a 3-film package 4.00 euros, and a 5-film package 6.00 euros; with a club card, reduced prices apply, and the membership card is available for 12 euros per year. This transparency is important because it positions the Film-Shop as a low-threshold place where cultural participation does not have to be expensive. At the same time, it becomes clear that the inventory is designed for active use and not just for mere viewing while passing by. The combination of new and used items, rarities and classics, as well as media from different generations is particularly attractive for film fans who like to browse and take their time. In this regard, the Film-Shop is a classic place of finding rather than searching because one does not just pick up what one already knows but often stumbles upon titles that one would have overlooked online. The store concept is surprisingly modern, even though it comes from an analog era: physical selection, personal advice, genuine surprise, and a selection that convinces through its materiality. So, anyone looking for tickets, rentals, or Film-Shop opening hours should understand the location not just as a mere store but as a curated media world. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/videothek/))
Opening Hours, Address, and Practical Planning
For practical planning, the Film-Shop is pleasantly uncomplicated. The official contact page lists the address as Erzbergerstraße 12, 34117 Kassel, the phone number as 0561 17538, and the email address as info@film-shop.org. The regular opening hours are Monday to Friday from 18:00 to 21:00 and Saturday from 15:00 to 21:00. For events, different times apply, which is completely logical for a place with a cinema and cultural program. The city of Kassel also directly refers to maps, a route planner, and public transport connections, making it easier for visitors to arrive. This is especially helpful for people visiting the Film-Shop for the first time and not just looking for a program point but for a concrete destination in Kassel. The location on Erzbergerstraße is ideal for evening visits, as rental, events, and city strolls can be well combined. So, anyone looking for opening hours, contact, or directions will find clear and current information at the Film-Shop instead of vague hints. This is a decisive advantage in today's visit planning because reliability counts, especially for culture-oriented places. The Film-Shop shows here that analog places can very well meet modern service expectations when they are communicated clearly. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Practically interesting is also that the arrival works not only for a quick rental visit but also for longer cultural evenings. Those attending an event should keep an eye on the different times, as program evenings can naturally differ from standard opening hours. This is not a disadvantage but a sign that the place is being used vibrantly. For internal SEO logic, terms like contact, opening hours, directions, and program are particularly relevant because they reflect the most common user questions. The Film-Shop is also very suitable for people who want to combine their planning with two goals: first borrowing films or browsing in the shop, then attending a neighborhood cinema event or a reading. From a visitor's perspective, this makes sense because the place is simultaneously a store, archive, and stage. Those looking for images or reviews usually want to know in advance how the place feels and whether the journey is worth it. This is exactly why the clear opening hours, the official address, and the direct public transport connection are so helpful. They lower the barrier and make the visit planable without destroying the special atmosphere. Thus, a very useful interplay of practical information and cultural uniqueness emerges. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Images, Reviews, and What Makes the Film-Shop So Special
Those searching for images or photos of the Film-Shop quickly notice that the place is visually well documented. The official website works with image material from history, video store, neighborhood cinema, shop, and events, so one already gets a good impression of the atmosphere, space, and self-understanding online. This is important because the Film-Shop does not appear as an interchangeable sales room but as a place with style and its own signature. Especially the mix of historical media formats, cinema area, and collection character makes images here meaningful: One does not just see shelves but a whole narrative about film culture. For search queries like images of Film-Shop Kassel or Film-Shop photos, this is helpful because interested parties can quickly recognize whether they expect a nostalgic, curated, or rather pragmatic place. In the available location data, the Film-Shop is also rated very highly, with 4.9 stars from 71 reviews. This fits the general perception as a cult place that is appreciated by many visitors not only for its historical status but also for its commitment. Independent travel portals also describe the Film-Shop as an ongoing video store and museum with event character, which aptly captures the mix of nostalgia and vibrant use. For reviews, it is particularly interesting that the place is experienced as very independent and authentic. ([tripadvisor.com](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187342-d14093021-Reviews-Film_Shop-Kassel_Hesse.html?utm_source=openai))
Particularly strong is the Film-Shop where other places have long given up: It connects material film memory with contemporary use. This very tension creates attraction. One does not come just to borrow a film but also to experience a place where film history remains visible and tangible. This makes the location attractive for search intents like reviews, photos, history, and program. Those reading reviews usually seek an assessment: Is this just a curious relic or indeed a worthwhile place? The facts provide a very clear answer: The Film-Shop is historically relevant, curatorially active, and culturally recognized. It has been awarded as the oldest video store in the world, houses an archive with over 20,000 titles, shows unusual films in the neighborhood cinema, and offers a regular event program. Added to this are the friendly personal character and the grown local anchoring in Kassel. For visitors, this is a rare combination of authenticity, discovery, and utility. Therefore, those visiting the Film-Shop do not simply get a branch but a cultural context. This is exactly what distinguishes it from many other places and explains why it frequently appears in search engines alongside words like images, photos, reviews, history, and program. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Sources:
Film-Shop - Oldest Video Store in the World | Opening Hours & Program
The Film-Shop in Kassel is not an ordinary store for films, but a cultural exception with real history. Those searching for the oldest video store in the world will find it at Erzbergerstraße 12, a project that has been connecting film passion, collecting culture, and local event work since the 1970s. From a rental for Super-8 films in Wolfsanger, a permanent location in Kassel was established in 1978, which today combines an archive with over 20,000 titles, a small museum, a neighborhood cinema, and a multifaceted program under one roof. This very mix makes the Film-Shop so interesting for people who are not just looking for an address but for a story. The location is a piece of Kassel's film culture, a meeting point for cinephiles, and at the same time a place where analog media, rarities, and curated events remain visible. So, anyone looking for opening hours, programs, photos, or reviews is essentially searching for a special form of film culture that is hardly found elsewhere. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
History of the Oldest Video Store in Kassel
The history of the Film-Shop begins with Eckhard Baum, who was born in 1938 in Berlin-Zehlendorf and developed a close relationship with film early on. In 1975, he opened the Film-Shop in Kassel-Wolfsanger, renting out Super-8 feature films; three years later, the store followed at Erzbergerstraße 12. This development is interesting not only for Kassel but for the entire media history because the Film-Shop anticipated the idea that later became commonplace as home cinema and private film culture. According to official sources, the Film-Shop was entered into the Guinness Book of Records in 1998 as the oldest video store in the world, and Ecki Baum was honored as the oldest video librarian. Thus, the status is not just a local myth but historically documented and has grown over the years. The fact that the Film-Shop was not simply transformed into a nostalgia museum but continues to thrive makes the place even more remarkable. In 2017, Christoph Langguth and Ralf Stadler, together with Randfilm, took over the management. Since then, the Film-Shop has remained a rental and sales location but has also become the headquarters and main venue for regular film screenings, concerts, and readings. Thus, an early film rental idea developed into a multifaceted cultural model that connects historical media practice with contemporary use. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/film-shop-kasseldie-geschichte-der-aeltesten-videothek-der-welt/))
Particularly exciting is that the history of the Film-Shop has never been linear in the sense of a classic business trajectory but has always been shaped by cultural development. Already in the 1990s, further film-related activities gathered around Eckhard Baum, including documentaries, contacts in the film scene, and a growing reputation far beyond Kassel. In 2017, a rescue movement emerged in Kassel when Randfilm averted the impending closure and gave the place a new future. This did not simply lead to a change of ownership but a transformation process: The Film-Shop remained a place for borrowing but simultaneously became a stage for discussions about film history, a meeting point for creative networks, and a showcase for analog media culture. The city of Kassel still describes the location as a mix of a large film collection and a small museum that houses over 20,000 titles and is supplemented week by week with classics and obscure films. This combination of inventory, continuity, and development makes the Film-Shop a rare example of how a historical media location can remain relevant in the present. For search queries such as history, oldest video store, or Guinness Book, the Film-Shop is therefore not just a meeting point but a concrete proof of lived film history in Kassel. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Program in the Neighborhood Cinema and Special Events
The neighborhood cinema is one of the most important reasons why the Film-Shop is much more than a nostalgic video store today. On the official site, it is described as the smallest cinema in Kassel, an off-cinema, concert hall, and space for lost films. This captures the character of the place very well: Here, interchangeable mainstream programs do not run, but rather obscure masterpieces, marginal debuts, and forgotten classics that would hardly have a chance in regular cinema operations. At the same time, the neighborhood cinema can be rented for various occasions, making the location interesting for private or cultural formats. The connection to the Randfilm network is particularly important because it is through this that series emerge that understand film not just as a commodity but as a topic for discussion. The official program page shows a vibrant spectrum of cinema days, Randfilm Nights, readings, music formats, special events, and the regularly occurring cinema regulars' table. Thus, the neighborhood cinema becomes a place where film screenings, discussions, and scene culture meet. The award of the Hessian Film Prize in 2023 and 2024 further emphasizes that this is not a marginal phenomenon but a recognized venue with a profile. So, anyone looking for Film-Shop programs or tickets is not just searching for an event list but for a curated cultural offering with a stance. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/kiezkino/))
Also, the program focuses on diversity instead of routine. On the current pages, in addition to film evenings, there are formats such as multimedia readings, football broadcasts in a cultural context, music evenings, and special theme series. This shows that the Film-Shop consciously keeps its program open and productively blurs the boundaries between cinema, scene meeting, reading stage, and cultural space. This openness fits the history of the house, as the Film-Shop is not a sterile event location but a lively meeting point with its own signature. Those who visit the place often experience a mix of conversation, collection, film, and community. The Randfilm Nights and the regular series are particularly interesting for visitors who specifically seek unusual films, special screenings, or a unique atmosphere. Due to the small size of the neighborhood cinema, a very immediate viewing experience is also created: close to the film, close to the screen, and close to the other guests. For search intents like program, tickets, or events, this is particularly valuable because the place does not focus on mass but on a clear curatorial perspective. The Film-Shop thus stands for a form of cultural work that connects local identity with cinematic spirit of discovery and simultaneously focuses clearly on community, exchange, and rediscovery. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/kiezkino/))
Video Store, Selection, and Rental in the Film-Shop
The video store itself is the heart of the Film-Shop. Here it quickly becomes clear why the place still has relevance: The selection is not limited to a single medium or current novelties but is deliberately broad. According to the official website, there are Blu-rays, DVDs, video cassettes, Laserdiscs, Super-8 films, books, T-shirts, exhibitions, and cinema. This mix is particularly appealing to film fans because it makes the historical development of home cinema visible while also having a very practical benefit. The Film-Shop does not see itself as a museum behind glass but as a living archive. The film archive comprises over 20,000 films, and week by week new releases, classics, and special titles are added. An important point here is the discovery quality: The sources explicitly mention that many titles are included that are not available online or are difficult to find. This creates added value compared to purely digital offerings. The store thus not only provides access but also selection, curation, and surprise. The atmosphere of classic video store flair remains intact, even though the use today is more modern and diverse than in the early years. For people looking for Film-Shop video store, film inventory, or rare titles, this is a strong argument. The presence of books, posters, and T-shirts complements the film collection with collectible companion products and makes the visit even more of an experience between store, archive, and pop culture. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/videothek/))
The rental conditions are also clearly and visitor-friendly structured. According to the official video store page, a single film costs 1.50 euros, a 3-film package 4.00 euros, and a 5-film package 6.00 euros; with a club card, reduced prices apply, and the membership card is available for 12 euros per year. This transparency is important because it positions the Film-Shop as a low-threshold place where cultural participation does not have to be expensive. At the same time, it becomes clear that the inventory is designed for active use and not just for mere viewing while passing by. The combination of new and used items, rarities and classics, as well as media from different generations is particularly attractive for film fans who like to browse and take their time. In this regard, the Film-Shop is a classic place of finding rather than searching because one does not just pick up what one already knows but often stumbles upon titles that one would have overlooked online. The store concept is surprisingly modern, even though it comes from an analog era: physical selection, personal advice, genuine surprise, and a selection that convinces through its materiality. So, anyone looking for tickets, rentals, or Film-Shop opening hours should understand the location not just as a mere store but as a curated media world. ([film-shop.org](https://film-shop.org/videothek/))
Opening Hours, Address, and Practical Planning
For practical planning, the Film-Shop is pleasantly uncomplicated. The official contact page lists the address as Erzbergerstraße 12, 34117 Kassel, the phone number as 0561 17538, and the email address as info@film-shop.org. The regular opening hours are Monday to Friday from 18:00 to 21:00 and Saturday from 15:00 to 21:00. For events, different times apply, which is completely logical for a place with a cinema and cultural program. The city of Kassel also directly refers to maps, a route planner, and public transport connections, making it easier for visitors to arrive. This is especially helpful for people visiting the Film-Shop for the first time and not just looking for a program point but for a concrete destination in Kassel. The location on Erzbergerstraße is ideal for evening visits, as rental, events, and city strolls can be well combined. So, anyone looking for opening hours, contact, or directions will find clear and current information at the Film-Shop instead of vague hints. This is a decisive advantage in today's visit planning because reliability counts, especially for culture-oriented places. The Film-Shop shows here that analog places can very well meet modern service expectations when they are communicated clearly. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Practically interesting is also that the arrival works not only for a quick rental visit but also for longer cultural evenings. Those attending an event should keep an eye on the different times, as program evenings can naturally differ from standard opening hours. This is not a disadvantage but a sign that the place is being used vibrantly. For internal SEO logic, terms like contact, opening hours, directions, and program are particularly relevant because they reflect the most common user questions. The Film-Shop is also very suitable for people who want to combine their planning with two goals: first borrowing films or browsing in the shop, then attending a neighborhood cinema event or a reading. From a visitor's perspective, this makes sense because the place is simultaneously a store, archive, and stage. Those looking for images or reviews usually want to know in advance how the place feels and whether the journey is worth it. This is exactly why the clear opening hours, the official address, and the direct public transport connection are so helpful. They lower the barrier and make the visit planable without destroying the special atmosphere. Thus, a very useful interplay of practical information and cultural uniqueness emerges. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
Images, Reviews, and What Makes the Film-Shop So Special
Those searching for images or photos of the Film-Shop quickly notice that the place is visually well documented. The official website works with image material from history, video store, neighborhood cinema, shop, and events, so one already gets a good impression of the atmosphere, space, and self-understanding online. This is important because the Film-Shop does not appear as an interchangeable sales room but as a place with style and its own signature. Especially the mix of historical media formats, cinema area, and collection character makes images here meaningful: One does not just see shelves but a whole narrative about film culture. For search queries like images of Film-Shop Kassel or Film-Shop photos, this is helpful because interested parties can quickly recognize whether they expect a nostalgic, curated, or rather pragmatic place. In the available location data, the Film-Shop is also rated very highly, with 4.9 stars from 71 reviews. This fits the general perception as a cult place that is appreciated by many visitors not only for its historical status but also for its commitment. Independent travel portals also describe the Film-Shop as an ongoing video store and museum with event character, which aptly captures the mix of nostalgia and vibrant use. For reviews, it is particularly interesting that the place is experienced as very independent and authentic. ([tripadvisor.com](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187342-d14093021-Reviews-Film_Shop-Kassel_Hesse.html?utm_source=openai))
Particularly strong is the Film-Shop where other places have long given up: It connects material film memory with contemporary use. This very tension creates attraction. One does not come just to borrow a film but also to experience a place where film history remains visible and tangible. This makes the location attractive for search intents like reviews, photos, history, and program. Those reading reviews usually seek an assessment: Is this just a curious relic or indeed a worthwhile place? The facts provide a very clear answer: The Film-Shop is historically relevant, curatorially active, and culturally recognized. It has been awarded as the oldest video store in the world, houses an archive with over 20,000 titles, shows unusual films in the neighborhood cinema, and offers a regular event program. Added to this are the friendly personal character and the grown local anchoring in Kassel. For visitors, this is a rare combination of authenticity, discovery, and utility. Therefore, those visiting the Film-Shop do not simply get a branch but a cultural context. This is exactly what distinguishes it from many other places and explains why it frequently appears in search engines alongside words like images, photos, reviews, history, and program. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/buerger/kunst_und_kultur/kultur-vor-ort/literatur/film-und-medien/film-shop.php))
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