Andrew Stanton, the writer and director of “Finding Nemo,” recently visited the Criterion Closet, a space he refers to as “sacred.” Stanton’s admiration for Criterion goes beyond its contemporary appeal; he has been a collector of their works since the beginning. He recalls a time when he and his small group of friends, also passionate about films, eagerly awaited each new laser disc release from Criterion, which started a few years before the founding of Pixar.
During his visit, Stanton discussed the film “Paper Moon,” directed by Peter Bogdanovich. He praised its storytelling, highlighting its impactful opening—engaging the audience within seconds and establishing character motivations quickly. Stanton noted that within just ten minutes, viewers become deeply invested in the relationship depicted on screen.
Reflecting on his time as a student at CalArts, Stanton recounted the experience of watching Terry Gilliam’s “Brazil,” which had faced difficulties with its release. He recalled how Gilliam personally brought the film to their school, an event that made a significant impression on him, particularly in relation to his own work at Pixar.
Stanton also expressed his appreciation for more recent films, selecting Joachim Trier’s “The Worst Person in the World.” He identified thematic parallels with “Lawrence of Arabia,” particularly focusing on the quest for self-identity and the challenges that come with making choices in life. Stanton emphasized that both films explore the profound journey of understanding oneself, drawing viewers into the protagonist’s inner struggles.
For those interested, Stanton’s entire visit to the Criterion Closet can be viewed online.