When Andrew Stanton, the writer and director of “Finding Nemo,” stepped into the Criterion Closet, he described it as “hallowed ground.” Stanton is just one of many talented individuals who have left Criterion’s New York offices with a bag full of treasures, including Ayo Edebiri and Mike Leigh. However, Stanton’s love for Criterion runs deep, stemming from his early days as a collector.
“I have been a collector since the very beginning,” Stanton shared. “Matter of fact, I think Criterion started, similarly, a few years ahead of Pixar. So, when we were just a small group of nerds, we would just covet every new LaserDisc that came out. And here we are still.”
To celebrate the Criterion release of Peter Bogdanovich’s 1973 film “Paper Moon,” Stanton praised its narrative structure. He highlighted the film’s ability to hook the audience within seconds and create a strong emotional connection with the characters.
Reflecting on Terry Gilliam’s “Brazil,” Stanton recounted an experience he had as a student at CalArts. Gilliam personally brought the film to the school after Universal refused to release it. This encounter left a lasting impression on Stanton and influenced his later work, including Pixar’s “WALL•E.”
During his visit to the Criterion Closet, Stanton also chose to pick up Bill Forsyth’s “Local Hero” and Joachim Trier’s “The Worst Person in the World.” He praised the latter for its thematic depth and emotional journey, comparing it to his favorite film, “Lawrence of Arabia.”
Stanton’s full visit to the Criterion Closet can be watched in the video above. For more insights from industry professionals and their favorite Criterion picks, stay tuned to Criterion’s latest releases and interviews.
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