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Video Difference
Category: Shopping Books, Mags, Music and Video Videos and Video Game Rental Videos and Video Game Rental [Edit]
6086 Quinpool RdHalifax, NS B3L 1A1
(902) 422-8517
- Hours:
Mon 12 am - 12 pm
Tue-Sun 12 pm - 12 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
26 reviews for Video Difference
Review Highlights
"And box-sets to die for."
(in 3 reviews)
"...I was looking for a hard-to-find movie; it was also hard to..."
(in 4 reviews)
"Best video store I've ever been to."
(in 3 reviews)
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26 reviews in English
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Review from Matt M.
Toronto, ON
12/27/2011
Pretty sweet video store. Specializing in have all the blockbusters but more than anything EVERYTHING THAT IS AWESOME IN FILM AND TV. Seriously.
That British TV Show your Nana watches - Got it.
That cult sci-fi movie you discovered when you were 13 (& had 2 friends) - Got it*
Ancient Horror movies for marathons - Got it.
Your Mom's favourite Meg Ryan Movie - Got it.
True Lies - GOT IT!!!!
Over 3 beautiful floors and near the down town core of Hali VD is the best. I've many a time suggested that they change their name to - VD, We've Got it!
Not sure why they never did. They are A-OK in my books. Only thing I would change is there tag line (please see above).
*I'm there with you. -
Review from Jason W.
Dartmouth, NS
10/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Seriously, if you don't know about Video Difference, then by all means crawl back under that rock you're living under and leave all the amazing videos that they have to offer.
It's the Costco of the video world. I walk in to pick up one item and walk away with about 100 bucks less in my wallet. I can't stop the amazing journey of discovery. I find things to love that I did not know existed.
Thank you for being my saviour on all those rainy, snowy, stormy bitter cold Halifax nights. -
Review from Philip H.
Halifax, NS
10/8/2011
One of the few places left now to rent DVDs now that the video giant Blockbuster closed all shops across Canada. To show their appreciation VD are giving a free rental when you bring in your useless Blockbuster card. So I guess that 'ol card has one final use.
Being open 24 hours is great for us who work late and want to rent a flick to chill on the couch with. Great selection on foreign and indi films as well.
The staff are great. Friendly, accommodating and will look up movies from my obscure "must watch" list.
VD also has various drop off spots around town, so if you're not handy their store check them out on their web site. You can also buy a black postage paid envelope for 79 cents and drop your movie in the closest mail box for a return. Awesome for us who live on the Darkside. This is what got them their 5th star... movie return options. -
Review from Lesley-Anne S.
Halifax, NS
3/27/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I was recently on a Jane Austen kick and decide I HAD to see at least four different adaptations, but they had to be particular adaptations. Being lazy and not living terribly close to Video Difference, I tried Netflix. Netflix failed me bad. But Video Difference? Not only did they have what I needed (all four of the adaptations I was looking for), but they had an entire Jane Austen section AND a period piece box set section. And my box set of Emma is a one month rental. Well worth the walk to Quinpool.
My geeky Jane Austen moment is just one example of the moments I've had with this store. It has never once failed me. If I needed a movie, they had it. The sections of the store are laid out so that it's easy and fun to browse (documentary on arts? independent British drama? played at the Oxford? why not!). And if I'm on a mission and can't find a particular title, the staff was able to help me out.
Forget streaming video and go treat yourself to a movie from Video Difference. And if you're like me and don't live that close, you can drop your movie off at a dozen different locations that are more convenient (examples: most university campuses, Super Natural Health, Two if By Sea, Backpackers on Gottingen and Italian Market on Young Street). -
Review from Kimberley M.
Halifax, NS
4/17/2011
What do I love about this place? EVERYTHING. Video Difference is the one stop shop for any sort of video related rental in the city, and I can't get enough of it.
I love to walk in with no expectations of what I'll leave with, and either something will jump off the shelf at me (thanks to consumer-driven categories like "feel good") or I'll randomly find something that I've likely never heard of. My favourite section is a tie between BBC TV (love, love, love) and The Oxford, which is a collection of films that have, yep you guessed it, played at the Oxford Theatre in the past. Old, new, foreign, doc, sad, funny, classic. They have it all.
Prices are good, selection is outstanding, staff are phenomenal, hours are tres convenient.
And, what I love even more than the in-store experience, is that convenient dropbox return locations throughout the city. Now that makes my life even more simple!Listed in: Quinpool Favs
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Review from Joel K.
6/2/2011
It's just perfect.
Amazing staff, ridiculous selection, and an ideal location. Unbeatable, really.
*This* is how video stores are meant to be. -
Review from Jens G.
Halifax, NS
10/25/2010
Video Difference truly is different.
Different in the best possible way as it has pioneered video rental. Next time someone tells you that on line rental is the beginning of the end for brick and mortar stores. Have them pay a visit to Video Difference.
They have been around forever offering a decent quantity of new releases and a massive library of old dusty things dated back to the VCR era.
There is plenty of staff on hand to crush the sometimes larger line up, with more staff walking around working the floor.
Lets not forget being open 24/7. Club owners be grateful that this place doesn't have a bar !!!!! -
Review from Brittney K.
Halifax, NS
11/16/2010
Calling all movie buffs- this video store is the premier spot for scoring a wide selection of flicks.
I've never seen so many movies under one roof- from blockbuster flicks, to documentaries, old-time black and white films, old sitcom DVDs, shorties and foreign films and television series, this store has virtually everything for anybody's viewing pleasure.
With such an abundance of movies, it's easy to feel a bit overwhelmed- fortunately the staff are extraordinarily friendly and really know their stuff whenit comes to films- they'll certainly be able to point you in the right direction. I came to Video Difference seeking a specific French film from the 70s- and wouldn't you know it, the staff were able to find it for me! I was amazed. Since then, I've returned for a whole bunch of other movies, many of which were obscure titles recommended to me by the staff. I have yet to be disappointed with any of them.
Rentals go for a cheaper price than the larger chain-stores (ie Blockbuster...), and the folks at Video Difference are far less stingy in terms of rental periods, which is great when you find a movie you really like and want to re-watch. There are convenient "Quick-Drop" spots readily available when the time comes to return your flicks, which is especially handy -
Review from Rhonda D.
Halifax, NS
11/30/2010
I want to hug whoever though-up Video Difference...
How handy! 24/7 video store, and you can get ANY movie you have ever thought of to rent!
My Husband and I are going through the "Top 100 movies of all time" list, so we can find pretty much anything here, and if they don't have it they offer to order it in for you! Holy service batman! :)
Sidenote: We just rented "Chinatown" with Jack Nicholson - FUNNY FUNNY movie! You should watch it ...go here and rent it!
I love a place with great customer service, and this rental place tops the charts (pardon the pun Mwah Mwah Mwah) for that :) Well done -
Review from Ashley P.
Halifax, NS
7/15/2011
The video store with even the most obscure movies. Love the staff, always helpful and knowledgeable and full of suggestions. Best video store I've ever been to. Also, perfect location and coupons for free rentals (2 free rentals and then discounts on others) when you get a membership card (also free). I wouldn't consider going elsewhere.
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Review from Ben B.
Peggy's Cove? Wouldn't miss it. Citadel Hill? Meh. Video Difference? Oh baby how do you be so good to me?! Oh yeah...I just insinuated that we like a video rental shop more than our cultural treasures. Deal with it...
As one of the few 24-hour businesses that offer anything besides emergency materials and Walmart crap, this one is a goodie. Day and night access to a feast of visual stimulation, snacks, drinks and even baked goods is never a bad thing. With a library spanning vintage BBC sitcoms, nineties stand-up, award-winning documentaries, and foreign obscurities, you're hitting the jackpot every single time you walk in the doors.
The staff are incredible for both helping you navigate the at times overwhelming selection - particularly on the bottom floor - and for recommending amazing films that you've never even heard of, so don't be shy! Don't know what you want in the least? Check the Top 100 shelves on the top floor where you can't go wrong. Or you can always grab an 80s cartoon boxset. Might I suggest Thundercats? He-Man's sidekicks get annoying.
But Video Difference isn't just accessible with a lot of product. Video Difference is our hippest community member. That's why you can get discounts for bringing in non-perishable food items for the local food bank, or check out incredible community listings from the local art, music, and gay communities. Other cities have neighbourhoods dedicated to expression and creativity, we have Video Difference and all it represents. It's really a hub of some of the coolest people in the city.
Video Differences has officially made movie-nights-in the new date-nights-out. So what are you watching? -
Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
5/9/2010
We don't head out to rent a movie often but when we do I enjoy browsing through Video Difference's huge selection in every genre you can imagine. This is not Blockbuster - you won't find 20 copies of the latest release or action thriller.
What you will find, though, is interesting selections and obscure titles. Don't forget that Video Difference runs their food-for-rentals program quite often - bring a donation to the food bank and get a free rental! -
Review from Lacey H.
2/24/2010
I may just be the only person who doesn't yodel hip-hip-hooray at massive movie selection. My immediate response is a flash of anxiety paired with sweating. However, my idiosyncrasies shall not mar my review of this fantastic flick rental center.
You can find everything at Video Difference. Random local independent films, Hollywood blockbusters, political documentaries, sexy foreign pictures, and the list goes on.
The staff are film-buffs to the max, with informed opinions that can help even the most anxiety-laden patron find a solid flick. I recommend going in with an idea in mind or else some time on your hands. Better yet, a solid set of decision making skills will really be of benefit to you in choosing the perfect picture for your night in. -
Review from Jen G.
Vancouver, BC
9/25/2008
This is quite possibly the best video store in the world. I have never seen anything like it. The categories are broken down so specifically they even have a "conspiracy theory" category in their documentary section. It's that detailed. The most box sets I've ever seen - every British series you could ever think of, obscure foreign films, obscure Canadian films, every doc you could imagine, music, all new releases, and tons and tons of dvd's I've never seen before. Truly amazing. Awesome in the true sense of the word.
I would move to Halifax just so I could rent from them. -
Review from Breen Y.
Halifax, NS
11/11/2010
My parents bought our first VCR from Video Difference when it first opened in the early 80's (Panasonic VHS with *wired* remote). Probably cost them a fortune. From then on I was a faithful Video Difference customer renting VHS movies then moving on to Nintendo cartridges, probably some other video game system, then DVD's.
Their selection has always been impressive with whatever current medium at the time. The staff is knowledgeable beyond probably what is needed (which is certainly not a bad thing).
I recently started visiting Video Difference again after a long absence to try and find some obscure DVD box sets to watch. To say I was impressed with their massive box set collection is an understatement!
Not only did I find what I was looking for but found some other older TV gems that I hadn't known existed.
When I'm ever wondering where I can find 'Movie X' or 'Box set Y', Video Difference is always the first thing in my head. I don't see that changing anytime soon. -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
9/18/2009
The Difference is in the selections and the service!
Video Difference is one of those strange phenomenon's in the world. You wouldn't expect a simple video store to be an important part of the community while also delivering the same selection some of those huge video rental stores have. But they do.
Video Difference has everything you would want or expect from a video rental store and a lot more. Lets start with the basics. Yes they have new releases and older movies / television shows. But they also have one of, if not the largest foreign and independent movie selection in the city. They also have a deal with local, up-and-coming filmmakers who have created a short film or film of any length. If you are a local Producer / Director, you can bring in your movie for others to rent out for free. A small option, but one I haven't seen elsewhere. And small acts such as these really show a thoughtful attitude you won't find in any other video store in the city.
Their staff are incredibly knowledgeable. So much so that I recommend they get paid at least a few dollars more than what any other video store pays its employees.
My only reluctance to holding back on a fifth star was the organization of the video sections. They have rearranged their order a few times and there is still a bit of a confusing method to their madness on where anything is. But it is a small price to pay given their selection and friendly staff. So the fifth star is staying where it is.
Given the immense support Video Difference has for its local film and television industry, together with great staff and a unique, wide variety of movies and television choices, this store ranks the highest in my books. -
Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
10/15/2009
I love this video store!
Video Difference does so many things well that it's almost hard to keep track. First of all, I love that they have drop boxes all over the city for ease of returning videos. I must admit, sometimes i'm willing to incur the penalty of late fees if it means not walking 15 blocks.
I also really like that Video Difference doesn't just alphabetize movies... cause lets face it- when movies aren't well organized we all pretty much wander around reading titles waiting for something to jump out at us. Not so at Video Difference, they have useful category's like: Documentary, Performing Arts, Academy Award as well as a 'top 100' list of their favorite movies. Highly useful!
Video Difference also has computer's set up for customer use so when you wander in with only a vague recollection of that movie your friend told you about, you can go search for it without walking up to an employee and saying: "Do you have that movie... uhhh... I don't remember what it's called... I think it has the word tomato in it...? Brad Pitt might be in it too." Always a plus if you're scatterbrained like me.
Video Difference also has a promotion going where you get 2 free rentals when you join! So quick, go join! -
Review from Ayla H.
Halifax, NS
12/3/2009
A friend spoke enthusiastically of Video Difference before I moved out here, and rightly so. It's a treasure trove. My favorite features are all the "Staff Picks" and other thematically organized walls, which make for great browsing if you go without a particular movie in mind. When I had the flu recently my boyfriend picked up 8 movies from their bargain bin, a pile of unsorted hit or misses where the per-movie price drops as your number of rentals increases. Tons of TV series on offer as well, if you're into marathon viewing.
I can't really imagine that being open 24 hours is that effective of a business strategy for a video store. However I've never been in there at 3am. Maybe it's packed. Whatever the deal is, it seems to be working for them so I won't argue.
So way to go, Video Difference. I just wish you were closer to my house. Then maybe I would be showing up at 3am... -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
11/10/2009
Video Difference does everything right.
The fact is that one doesn't expect service like this when you enter a video store. Case in point, for years I would go into my local movie store, see if a movie was in and if it was, I would get it. If it wasn't, I might browse around for another choice, but usually I would just leave empty handed while clerks counted the minutes until their shift was over.
I was fine with this because this is what I had come to expect.
Compare that to the night I went into Video Difference looking for a Mexican Documentary that I did not know the name of. I had an idea of what it was about, but not much more. When a clerk asked if he could help me I laughed and told him about the movie. I expected a "Good luck" style response, but what I got was something else entirely.
Would you believe this guy spent twenty minutes helping me look for this movie? We searched imdb, we searched the store, we asked other clerks, it was an adventure! Though we didn't find the movie (apparently it was never released on DVD), we did find some great alternatives and I left the store very satisfied.
I haven't rented a movie from anywhere else since. It's not just the selection that makes this store special, it's the staff. Tell a clerk that you're interested in seeing a great new release or a classic drama and they will find one for you. Ask for a bizarre horror movie and they will find you something that will keep you up all night. The staff know their stuff because they love their stuff.
That's what keeps me coming back to Video Difference - and that's why every movie lover in Halifax should check it out. -
Review from Ruth D.
Halifax, NS
12/5/2009
Probably the best marriage between mainstream movies, old & foreign classics and indie films. Three floors of choices to make sure you never leave openhanded. And, while I've been meaning to take out their boxed sets of everything imaginable, I still haven't run out of singles I want to see.
Staff is knowledgeable and helpful. So if you don't remember the real title or just a little description of the plot...maybe....they're all eager to solve the mystery for you.
One other great thing about this independent outfit is that I can return DVDs to the Italian Market just up the street from me. So no hassles with making my way directly to Video Difference.
Another, is the section for Academy and other Award winners, local & foreign. Perhaps this holiday season that will be my focus. How many films can you see in a day? -
Review from Katie M.
Halifax, NS
3/21/2010
Video Difference is the type of store that you dream of being locked in over night. Floors of movies of every genre you could imagine, TV shows on DVD, documentaries, new releases and blue rays. Not to mention the treats (chips, pop, popcorn, candy, ice cream, etc.) that surround the cash register. Unfortunately you can't get locked in Video Difference over night because they are open 24 hours.
I've worked my way through the display of the 50 best movies of all time and the staff suggestions for almost every month since I've been a frequent customer here. I've found obscure British TV shows on box set ("Skins" anyone?) and I've never walked out without a movie in hand. The sales on pre-watched DVDs are always tempting, a couple older or less popular movies can go for under $5. They advertise the sale as "today only" but they usually have one every week.
Hot Hint: This Video Difference location is now a licenced Ticket Pro vendor.Listed in: Night Moves
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Review from Laura P.
Toronto, ON
3/15/2010
Power to the People.
Video Difference is a reason to make screen time a priority. For those who crave beyond the latest Hollywood lackluster-- er-- blockbuster, this is the spot to hit.
Three glorious floors of flicks to entertain and educate. Documentaries, foreign film, anime, gay/ lesbian, and tv are amongst its abundant variety. Music lovers can revel, revel in the alphabetically shelved music docs: from Riot Grrrls to Rock'n'Roll beginnings, David Bowie to The Germs. Its all there. Waiting. For you.
Employees are friendly and will direct, suggest and make eye contact accordingly. Between the staff and the selection, its pretty hard not to love this place. They also accept Canadian Tire money and have video drop off boxes all around the city! Rentals tend to go for a longer then average time period too. Boys oh boys... are you as excited as I am?
To me, Video Difference seems too good to be true. They really go out of their way to provide a flawless movie renting experience. Customers and community are valued and have a reason to go back time and time again.
If you are just looking for the new romantic comedy release, you might be better off going to the Blockbuster. The selection at VD could leave you a little frazzled. Other then that... expand your horizons through cinema at Video Difference. There's something for everybody and opportunity to delve deeper than the average rental shop will offer.Listed in: Girls Night!
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Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
Updated - 3/12/2010 2 photos
Today I was on a mission to find some movies for my dad. John Wayne movies. So were to we head to but Video Difference, I knew if anyone would stock these it would be them.
I was lucky enough to have one gentleman help me, I actually think it was the owner or the manager. Anyhow he was very nice and helpful.
He took me right to the section and helped me choose five movies for him, since I was not up on John Wayne flicks.
I also rented the movie Johnny Darko.
I was very happy with the extra service I received today and can't say enough about this place.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/11/2010
Video Difference is the experience looking for a movie should be. Your first time in you will be in… Read more »
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Review from Ang M.
Halifax, NS
9/29/2009 1 photo
If it's out on video or DVD, Video Difference either has it, or can get it for you. And if you can't find it in the store, there's someone there who is ready, willing and able to help you find it - a customer service anomaly these days.
Video Difference has all the usual Hollywood stuff, but the beauty of this shop is that they cater to more - I'm going to say it - sophisticated tastes. They actually have up-to-date sections of independent and foreign films (unlike the big blue store which shall remain nameless), a fantastic documentary section, lots of gay films and even a whole section of its own for independent comedies.
And box-sets to die for. I've spent many weekends hunkered down with a whole season of Deadwood or the Sopranos rented from here. So, i guess we can blame Video Difference for my filthy mouth. -
Review from Desiree M.
Halifax, NS
3/21/2010
I'm going to have to jump on the bandwagon here and proclaim Video Difference to be The Best Video Store Ever. With the giant selection sprawling over three floors, with titles from the popular to the obscure, it's even a draw for people like me who rarely go to video stores.
When I did eventually find my way there, I was looking for a hard-to-find movie; it was also hard to find within the store, but the helpful staff gave me a hand. After seeing it had been re-cataloged to a mysterious new shelf, they were having trouble finding it too. But I was given a free rental card for the inconvenience. I finally spotted it on a shelf, and it was free plus the two freebies you normally get for signing up! I think if I could give this place 6 stars, I would. -
Review from erin g.
Halifax, NS
9/24/2010
i've never been to a better video store. as mentioned in other reviews, it has everything. 3 floors of flicks! they have every box set & you can rent them for up to a month! it's nice to see a company acknowledge how long it can take to watch a season.
when you sign up they give you two free rentals. the first one you pay for & then two after that are free. signing up took only a second! the staff is very friendly & helpful.
