Introducing Front Porch Cinema

There was a time when discovering a great movie wasn't left to an algorithm. You wandered into your neighborhood video store, browsed the shelves, picked up a movie you'd never heard of because the cover caught your eye, or maybe a friend suggested it to you. If you visited this video store enough, one of the staff members probably knew you and would readily say, "If you like that, watch this."

I know because I was that staffer.

Working in a video store in the 1990s remains one of my favorite jobs I've ever had. It was where I refined and expanded my love for cinema and my expertise. It was there that cult classics, hidden gems, unsung performances, forgotten comedies, and indie films became more than an insider discussion in film school, but real enthusiasm and love for movies from fans with diverse viewpoints. More importantly, it taught me that sharing movies could create conversations, friendships, and community.

I've missed that. So, I'm bringing a little piece of it back.

Introducing Front Porch Cinema, a neighborhood movie project built around one simple idea: great movies are worth sharing, discussing, and discovering together.

Each month, I'll curate a collection of films centered on a theme—an actor, director, genre, era, or simply a group of movies I think belong together. Some will be available to borrow from the Front Porch Cinema cabinet on my property (sorry folks who don't live in Concord, New Hampshire, or own a working DVD player); others may be available through your local library or streaming services. I will provide information on where to stream. Every recommendation will include a brief remark on why it's worth watching and why it matters.

This is about rediscovering the magic we felt when we went into a video store and picked something off the shelf. I can't bring those days back, but I can cultivate the experience -- the joy of fandom, of discussing films, of watching something you might never have chosen, of beginning conversations with, "Have you ever seen...?"

And maybe most importantly, it's about creating a small neighborhood tradition where movie lovers—and people who simply enjoy a good story—can discover something wonderful together.

This is just the beginning.

In the months ahead, you'll find curated collections, seasonal themes, recommendations, hidden classics, and perhaps a few movie discussions along the way—always centered on helping you discover something worth watching.

Whether you borrow a DVD, stream a recommendation, or simply stop by to see what's "now showing," I hope Front Porch Cinema becomes a place that reminds us that the best movie recommendations still come from people who love sharing them.

The porch light is on.

Come discover something wonderful—and bring a friend, a movie, or just your curiosity.

— Sarah Mason

P.S. Every great video store had memorable staff. Front Porch Cinema has two. Bogie and Charles are the resident greeters, quality control inspectors, and self-appointed managers of the movie cabinet. They don't offer recommendations (yet), but they are excellent at making visitors feel welcome.