- Source: Movieland (retailer)
Movieland was a video store franchise founded by Tony Romano and Paul Spano in 1982, growing to 145 locations across Australia. The chain operated for 20 years before closing in 2002, with its first store opening in Bay Street, Brighton, Victoria, and its final location in Sandringham, a Bayside suburb. After its closure, many of the stores were rebranded as Video Ezy, and in some cases, Blockbuster. In 2021, Video Ezy ceased operations and liquidated its assets. In 2023, Movieland was revived as a media press and retail company, founded by Adam Heron and Shawn Montague in Adelaide, South Australia.
History
Independent research has consistently highlighted Movieland as the most recognized movie retail franchise group in the Australian market. Founded in 1982, Movieland has evolved into a prominent, Australian-owned franchise, with a strong presence across Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia. At its peak, the brand boasted over 145 stores, with 40 locations across both metropolitan and regional areas of Victoria alone.
The Movieland store in Victor Harbor, South Australia, earned the title of "Best Country Store of the Year" for two consecutive years, reinforcing Movieland's reputation as a leading video store franchise in regional areas.