Giving a DVD as a gift sounds like a great idea until you are faced with the questions. The first and most obvious question centers around whether or not the individual already has the DVD title. This can be a difficult question to answer. Unless you live in the household, it is difficult to determine the exact titles of DVDs a person owns.
You first have to determine what genre or which movies the person likes. This can usually be determined with either a direct question or by paying attention to what movies the individual attends. Asking a direct question will not give away the fact that you are giving them a DVD. Although, the size and shape of the package probably will.
Then you have to determine whether or not the individual is one who goes out and buys the DVD the instant they go on sale or one who waits. It is easier to buy a new DVD title for one who waits. The more impatient individuals would receive more of a surprise if they were given a gift card for the store where they purchase DVDs.
If the DVDs are intended for children, it is best to ask their parents what they have and what they are allowed to watch. This will save you a lot of grief over an inappropriate DVD. Parents also know the exact titles of the DVDs their children want.
Giving a DVD as a gift is still a good idea. But it does take some determination to find one that the individual likes. It is also a good idea to keep the receipt just in case you pick up a duplicate title. That way it can be exchanged for a title that the individual does not have. With kids, it is always important to ask before you give.