VIPCO (Video Instant Picture Company) is a well-known name in the history of home video distribution, particularly in the context of the UK’s “video nasties” era. Here’s a detailed overview of VIPCO, its founder Mike Lee, and its impact on the video distribution industry:
Founding and Early Years
- Establishment:
- VIPCO was founded by Mike Lee in the late 1970s. The exact founding date is often cited as 1979.
- The company was based in the United Kingdom and focused on distributing films on VHS (Video Home System), a relatively new format at the time.
- Focus on Horror and Exploitation Films:
- VIPCO specialized in horror and exploitation films, genres that were often overlooked by major distributors.
- This niche focus helped VIPCO carve out a distinctive market presence, appealing to a growing audience of horror enthusiasts.
Notable Releases and Controversy
- Video Nasties:
- VIPCO became infamous for distributing several films that were later labeled as “video nasties” by the British government.
- The “video nasties” controversy involved films that were accused of being excessively violent and morally corrupting, leading to them being banned or censored.
- Prominent Titles:
- Some of VIPCO’s most notorious releases include “Zombie Flesh Eaters” (also known as “Zombi 2”), “Driller Killer,” “Death Trap,” and “The Deadly Spawn.”
- These films were often marketed with lurid and sensational cover art, emphasizing their graphic content.
Censorship and Legal Issues
- Video Recordings Act 1984:
- The moral panic over video nasties led to the introduction of the Video Recordings Act 1984, which required all videos to be classified by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC).
- Many of VIPCO’s titles were either banned outright or required significant cuts to be released legally.
- Impact on VIPCO:
- The increased regulation and censorship posed challenges for VIPCO, which had built its reputation on distributing uncut versions of controversial films.
- Despite these challenges, VIPCO continued to operate and adapt to the new regulatory environment.
Later Years and Legacy
- Home Video Renaissance:
- In the 1990s and 2000s, VIPCO experienced a resurgence as interest in cult horror films grew.
- The company re-released many of its classic titles on DVD, often promoting them as “uncut” or “restored” versions.
- Cultural Impact:
- VIPCO is remembered for its significant role in popularizing horror and exploitation films in the UK.
- The company’s bold marketing and willingness to distribute controversial content left a lasting impact on the home video market and horror fandom.
- Collectibility:
- Original VIPCO VHS tapes have become highly collectible items, particularly among fans of the video nasties era.
- The distinctive cover art and historical significance of these releases contribute to their value.
Mike Lee
- Role and Vision:
- Mike Lee, the founder of VIPCO, was instrumental in shaping the company’s direction and focus.
- His vision was to bring a wide range of horror and exploitation films to a broader audience, often challenging mainstream sensibilities and censorship norms.
- Influence:
- Lee’s influence extended beyond VIPCO, as he helped to create a market for genre films that might otherwise have remained obscure or inaccessible.
- His approach to video distribution emphasized bold marketing and a willingness to push boundaries.
In summary, VIPCO, under the leadership of Mike Lee, played a pivotal role in the distribution of horror and exploitation films in the UK. Despite facing significant challenges due to censorship and regulation, the company left an indelible mark on the home video industry and continues to be celebrated by fans of cult and horror cinema.
