Walking into Movie Madness feels like stepping into another time, another world. The scent of old plastic cases mingles with the faint hum of a CRT television playing a classic movie in the corner. Shelves groan under the weight of more movies than you could watch in a lifetime, and everywhere you look, there’s something to marvel at — a Citizen Kane set piece here, Julie Addrews' dress from The Sound of Music there. It’s not just a store; it’s a cinematic sanctuary. For film lovers in Portland, Oregon, Movie Madness is a beloved institution — a time capsule of movie magic and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.
In an age where streaming algorithms dictate what we watch, Movie Madness invites you to get lost in the aisles and rediscover the joy of choosing for yourself. This is the story of how a little video rental store became a cultural landmark, survived near extinction, and continues to thrive as a shrine for cinephiles.
A Brief History of Movie Madness
The story of Movie Madness begins in 1991 with Mike Clark, a Portland cinephile with an insatiable love for movies. Clark didn’t just want to open another video rental store; he wanted to create the ultimate collection, a treasure trove of films that spanned genres, eras, and languages. From Hollywood blockbusters to obscure international gems, if you could name it, Clark wanted it on the shelf. And if you couldn’t name it? He wanted you to discover it.
Clark’s obsession didn’t stop at movies. Over the years, he amassed an impressive collection of movie memorabilia, turning the store into a living museum. Visitors could rent Fight Club and then marvel at a real bar of soap prop from the movie, or grab Hitchcock's Psycho and shiver at the sight of the original knife from the film. These artifacts weren’t just decoration; they were tactile connections to the stories we love, tangible pieces of cinematic history.
As the collection grew, so did Movie Madness’ reputation. By the early 2000s, it wasn’t just a video rental store; it was a cultural landmark. Film buffs from across the city — and eventually, across the country — made pilgrimages to its aisles. For Portlanders, it became a Friday night ritual: browsing the shelves, chatting with the passionate staff, and leaving with a stack of movies that promised hours of entertainment.
A Community’s Love Affair With the Silver Screen
Movie Madness isn’t just a store; it’s an experience. For generations of Portlanders, it has been a place to connect — with movies, with people, and with memories. It’s the kind of place where you’d overhear a stranger passionately recommending an obscure kung fu flick to another customer or see a parent introducing their child to the animated classics of their own childhood.
There’s a tactile joy to Movie Madness that no streaming service can replicate. Running your fingers along the spines of VHS tapes and DVDs, pulling one out at random, and discovering a film you’d never even heard of — it’s a feeling of serendipity that can’t be matched by Netflix’s algorithm. The staff, too, are part of the magic. Their encyclopedic knowledge and unbridled enthusiasm for cinema elevate every visit. Need a recommendation? They’ll not only suggest the perfect film but probably tell you a story about why it’s their favorite.
The love for Movie Madness runs deep in Portland. Couples who had their first dates there still return years later, now introducing their kids to the ritual. It’s a shared space of discovery, nostalgia, and connection. But even such a beloved institution isn’t immune to the challenges of a changing world.
The Hollywood Theatre to the Rescue
In 2017, Movie Madness faced the unthinkable: founder Mike Clark was ready to retire, and without a buyer, the store was at risk of closing its doors for good. For a moment, it felt like the final reel was rolling on one of Portland’s most cherished landmarks.
But then, like the hero in the third act of a feel-good movie, the Hollywood Theatre stepped in. Another Portland institution and nonprofit dedicated to preserving the city’s cinematic heritage, the Hollywood Theatre launched a Kickstarter campaign to save Movie Madness. The community response was overwhelming. Over 4,000 backers raised more than $315,000, ensuring that Movie Madness would not only survive but thrive.
Under the stewardship of the Hollywood Theatre, Movie Madness became a nonprofit, solidifying its place in Portland’s cultural fabric. The transition wasn’t just about preservation; it was about ensuring that Movie Madness could continue to inspire and delight future generations.
Why Movie Madness is Still Magical
Today, Movie Madness is more than just a store; it’s a cinematic wonderland. The collection is a testament to the breadth and depth of cinema, with over 80,000 titles ranging from silent films to modern masterpieces. There’s a section for every taste, whether you’re into Italian horror, classic westerns, or obscure arthouse films.
And then there’s the memorabilia. Walking through the store feels like exploring a miniature museum of movie history. Modonna's dress from Evita hangs in a glass case, a tangible reminder of one of cinema’s most iconic moments. Nearby, you’ll find a life-sized statue of tone of the aliens from Mars Attacks and a veritable trove of other treasures that make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a Hollywood backlot.
The staff remain the heart and soul of the experience. Their passion is infectious, and their recommendations can lead you to films you’d never have found on your own. Whether it’s an obscure 70s thriller or a heartwarming indie drama, they’ll find the perfect pick for your mood.
Movie Madness has also expanded its offerings, hosting events, film clubs, and outdoor screenings. It’s not just a place to rent movies; it’s a hub for Portland’s film community, a space where people can come together to celebrate the art of cinema.
Why Movie Madness Matters in 2025
In an age of digital convenience, why does a physical video rental store still matter? The answer lies in the experience. Movie Madness is a haven for those who crave something more personal and tactile than a streaming service. It’s a place where you can wander, discover, and feel the weight of cinema history in your hands.
For many, Movie Madness is a portal to another time — a reminder of Friday nights spent debating which movie to rent, the thrill of taking home a film you’d never seen, and the joy of experiencing it for the first time. It’s a place that values the past without rejecting the future, a living love letter to the magic of movies.
An Invitation to Explore
If you’ve never been to Movie Madness, you owe it to yourself to visit. Wander the aisles, marvel at the memorabilia, and let yourself get lost in the magic. Whether you’re a lifelong cinephile or just looking for a fun night in, Movie Madness has something to offer. In a world that’s increasingly digital and impersonal, it’s a reminder of the joy of connection — to stories, to people, and to the enduring magic of the movies.
It’s fitting that Oregon is home to not only Movie Madness but also the last Blockbuster on earth, located in Bend. Together, these two institutions are like cinematic bookends of a bygone era, each offering a nostalgic reminder of what movie-watching used to be. While Blockbuster conjures memories of mainstream Friday nights with family and friends, Movie Madness digs deeper, celebrating the art and history of cinema in all its glorious forms. Both serve as a testament to the unique role physical rental stores played in shaping how we discovered and connected with movies. For film lovers, Oregon feels like a haven, keeping the spirit of movie magic alive, one rental at a time.
Where is Movie Madness Located in Portland Oregon?
Here's the scoop:
Address: 4320 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97215
Phone: 503-234-4363
Hours: Fri – Sun: 11:00am – 11:00pm, Mon – Thur: 12:00pm – 10:00pm
