Key Highlights
- Criterion’s mobile Closet Picks event turned into a beloved tradition celebrating film culture.
- The initiative began as a casual idea involving Guillermo del Toro and grew to feature numerous celebrities picking films from Criterion’s collection.
- For its 40th anniversary, the mobile Closet Picks visited Chicago during the Chicago International Film Festival, creating a sense of community among film enthusiasts.
- The event not only showcased films but also fostered real-life friendships and conversations among attendees.
From Casual Idea to Lasting Tradition
In 2010, the idea for Criterion’s mobile Closet Picks was born out of a single email. President Peter Becker of Criterion remembered, “On a whim, someone floated the idea of snapping a photo of director Guillermo del Toro inside their office closet.” This casual suggestion led to a video that would eventually become Criterion’s most cherished ritual.
Del Toro agreed and went through Criterion’s collection, picking films and sharing his thoughts. “He totally understood what we were doing,” Becker recalled with admiration. The first Closet Picks video became the blueprint for what would grow into over 300 videos featuring everyone from Willem Dafoe to Hideo Kojima.
A Celebration of Cinema and Community
To celebrate their 40th anniversary, Criterion took the mobile Closet Picks on a tour. The event stopped in Chicago for the Chicago International Film Festival, where fans could line up early to experience it themselves. Becker noted, “The true essence of the mobile Closet Picks wasn’t the spectacle but the line itself.”
For over five and a half hours, attendees formed groups, bonded over their shared love of films, and created lasting friendships. Becker highlighted that the event was not just about the films picked from the van but also about the conversations sparked among strangers turned friends.
The Power of Community in Film
Becker emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of community through film. “Everybody here really loves movies in a way that is important enough to them that they’re willing to sacrifice some of their precious time and freedom to be here,” he said.
The event also served as a reminder of how films can bridge gaps between stars and audiences. Rose Byrne’s appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers further highlighted the charm and absurdity of the Closet Picks tradition, showing that even celebrities could find joy in such a simple idea.
Selection Process and Future Growth
Criterion’s selection process is both subjective and collaborative. Becker explained, “We never wanted to be a housekeeping seal of approval for movies.” The company works with an internal acquisitions team and curatorial advisory board to decide which films make the cut.
The mobile Closet Picks event not only showcased films but also highlighted the power of community in film culture. As Criterion continues its journey, they plan to take the mobile Closet Picks on the road again, aiming to create more opportunities for fans to connect over their shared love of cinema.
