D’Amato Records : storja ta’ ħanut

Abstract

The aim of this practical dissertation is to provide an insight in the way the Anthony D’Amato shop in Valletta, commonly referred to as D’Amato Records, has been affected in the recent years following the widespread reach of the internet, particularly the availability of piracy websites, and the resultant change in the customers’ behaviour towards the consumption of music and films. In an attempt to clearly show this effect, I present a brief history of the shop in a 20-minute documentary film and, as a result, create a contrast between the popularity of the shop in the past and the challenges it is having to face today. Throughout the film, I show that the shop has been affected drastically by the changes in consumer patterns, resulting in a 90% sales drop which led to drastic cost-cutting measures. On the other hand, the documentary, albeit nostalgic at points, highlights the dedication and passion with which the D’Amato family members approach their business and embrace their challenges, with the shop itself personifying an additional member of the family, possibly, in their eyes, the only one to ‘witness’ generational change.