The decline of physical media has been one of cinema’s most upsetting trends in the 21st century. Even with the dawn of 4K Blu-ray and similar premium formats, the frequency and quality of physical releases has been steadily trending downward.

This is where This is How the World Ends looks to stake its claim. Written and directed by Robert dos Santos, the dystopian sci-fi film will debut on VHS on June 7, 2026, making it the first worldwide straight-to-VHS release in two decades.

The film stars Frances Sholto-Douglas as Dani, one of the last vestiges of a world where AI has become sentient and ushered in its own police state. As it soon becomes clear that society isn’t going to recover from its oppression, the final few collect in the desert for the party to end all parties, the last hurrah of humanity. Her brother, Tom (Sean Cameron Michael), is certain that this isn’t the end, however, and sets out on a dangerous journey to find her.

The VHS release of This is How the World Ends was all part of the plan for dos Santos. “In the digital world of AI, streaming, and downloads, we’ve lost touch of what it means to fall in love with cinema,” he says in a press release. “We’ve lost the shared experience of sitting together to watch a film, the feeling of browsing a rental store, and the ability to place your favourite film on the shelf for all to see. Physical media gave us a connection to our favourite films, and like with vinyl records, it’s time to bring it back.”

He wants to change how VHS-only films are framed, starting with the reputation they’ve earned. “Straight to VHS used to be a slur in the 90s,” he continues, “But not anymore. Today, it represents that your film is crafted with intention, and made for those who truly love films.”

In an industry increasingly mired by AI disputes and algorithm-based filmmaking decisions, it’s a meaningful push against the tide. “This is a film that is made by humans, for humans,” he says. “This is cinema you can hold, touch, and most importantly own.”

The two main characters in a desert in This is How the World Ends.

For the producer, And Films, it’s viewed as a return to traditional physical formats as well an artistic statement. It’s a chance for collectors and physical media puritans to revel in their hobby while supporting a filmmaker and film that want a healthier industry moving forward.

This is How the World Ends releases on VHS on June 7, 2026.