So the thought is pretty simple.
A monofunction PCB that when power is supplied from the HDMI, generates a private key signature, displays it as a QR code for a few moments, then plays whatever video is stored on nand.
The QR code confirms the legitimacy or official-ness of the copy.
Encourage copying, modifying, as well as redistributing the content. However build a culture of the 'Unpause-able Player Stick':
Friends should still feel obligated to support the art through peer pressure to use one of these sticks that can prove its legitimacy, during ritualistic communal watchings.
Airgapped for security and durability (viruses can still damage hardware after all)