The tape in the cassette is drawn very tight. How do I release it so it can be played in the VCR. It will not play or rewind or fast forward. The tape is stuck and the wheels that hold the tape are stuck.

Diane, February 2007

I have tried this, and it works as long as that button is pushed in. When I put the tape in the player, or even just try to turn the spool when the match stick is not pushed inside the hole, the spools are still stuck. Am I out of luck? Or is there something else I could try?

KC, March 2007

on the underside of the cassette are 2 holes midway between the takeup spools, 1 large hole and 1 small.
Gently push a match stick or similar "weapon" into the small hole and turn the spool with your finger to release the tension on the tape.

Pete, February 2007