Person of Interest: Why you need to watch (or revisit) this sci-fi classic - now on DVD and streaming
Have you picked up on the buzz lately? Suddenly, everyone's talking about Person of Interest like the show never went away. I've been following TV dramas for twenty years, and when a cult classic starts stirring again, you know it's time to dig out those box sets. Few series have managed to capture the spirit of the times quite like this one is doing right now.
A series that saw the future coming
For those needing a refresher: Person of Interest follows the mysterious billionaire Harold Finch and former CIA agent John Reese. They utilise a surveillance system, "The Machine," which spits out the social security numbers of people about to be involved in serious crimes. It's a gritty, thought-provoking blend of crime drama and sci-fi that ran for five seasons until 2016. Back then, it was thrilling – today, it's eerily familiar.
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 platforms, a whole new generation is discovering 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 show 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 snag the complete series on DVD
For those of us who still appreciate a physical copy, owning the complete series is pure gold. Here's what to keep an eye out for if you want Person of Interest – The Complete Series on your shelf:
- Box Sets: Hunt down The Complete Series DVD – it includes all five seasons and often bonus material you won't get on streaming.
- Individual Seasons: If you're only missing parts, you can find Person Of Interest - Season 1-4 and Person Of Interest - Season 5, both new and used.
- Check the Region Code: Spot a cheap Person of Interest Season 4 (Region A/1) DVD online? Be careful – that requires a region 1 player. Here in New Zealand, we need region 4. Keep an eye out for Pre-Owned Region 4 copies in second-hand shops and local online stores. They pop up regularly.
Is a new season actually happening?
The big question on everyone's mind: Could Person of Interest really see a renaissance? I wouldn't rule anything out. The industry is full of surprises, and the show's themes are more relevant now than when it was made. That said, the cast has scattered to the winds. Michael Emerson (Finch) is appearing in other major productions, and Jim Caviezel has moved on to different projects. Still, in an era where everything from old crime procedurals to 90s dramas are getting resurrected, I wouldn't be shocked if we get a miniseries or a film set in the same universe. For now, we can enjoy the five seasons we have – and honestly, 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 up in it.