Person of Interest: Why you need to watch (or rediscover) this sci-fi classic – now on DVD and streaming

Have you noticed the buzz lately? Suddenly, everyone's talking about Person of Interest like it never went away. I've been following TV dramas for twenty years, and when a cult classic stirs back to life, I know it's time to dig out the box sets. Few series have captured the spirit of the times quite like this one is doing right now.

A series that saw the future coming

For those who need a refresher: Person of Interest follows the mysterious billionaire Harold Finch and ex-CIA agent John Reese. They use a surveillance system, "The Machine," that spits out social security numbers of people about to be involved in serious crimes. It's a gritty, thought-provoking mix of crime drama and sci-fi that ran for five seasons until 2016. Back then, it was thrilling – today, it's frighteningly real.

Why is everyone talking about Person of Interest again?

A lot of the credit for this comeback has to go to streaming services. Now that the series has popped up on several providers' lineups, a whole new generation has discovered Finch and Reese's fight against the system. At the same time, the debate around artificial intelligence and privacy is hotter than ever. Suddenly, a ten-year-old series feels like the most relevant thing you could watch. There are also whispers that some production houses have floated the idea of a revival – just enough to send fans into a spin.

How to get your hands on the complete series on DVD

For those of us who still appreciate physical media, owning the complete series is priceless. Here's what to look for if you want Person of Interest – The Complete Series on your shelf:

• Box sets: Hunt for The Complete Series DVD – it includes all five seasons and often bonus material you won't get on streaming.
• Individual seasons: If you're just missing parts, Person Of Interest - Season 1-4 and Person Of Interest - Season 5 are available new and second-hand.
• Check the region code: Spot a cheap Person of Interest Season 4 (Region A/1) DVD online? Hold on – that needs a region 1 player. In Ireland, you need region 2. Keep an eye out for Pre-Owned Region 2 editions in second-hand shops and Irish online stores. They pop up all the time.

Is a new season actually happening?

The question on everyone's mind: Could Person of Interest really have a renaissance? I wouldn't rule anything out. The industry is full of surprises, and the show's themes are even more relevant now than when it was made. That said, the cast have scattered to the four winds. Michael Emerson (Finch) is appearing in other big productions, and Jim Caviezel has moved on to other projects. Still, in an era where everything from old crime procedurals to 90s dramas are being brought back to life, I wouldn't be shocked if we got a miniseries or a film set in the same universe. In the meantime, we can enjoy the five seasons we have – they're well worth a rewatch.

So, whether you're an old hand wanting to relive the vibe, or a newcomer curious what all the fuss is about: now's the time. Track down Person of Interest on DVD or streaming, and let yourself get swept away.