Criterion Mobile Closet Brings Cinematic Joy to Chicago
Last October, amidst a weekend of intense political activity, the 61st Chicago International Film Festival hosted a unique visitor: the Criterion Mobile Closet. This touring pop-up brought a rare cinematic experience to cinephiles from across Chicago and the Midwest, offering a moment of shared passion and connection during a challenging week marked by city-wide protests and ICE raids.
The Criterion Closet Experience Lands in Chicago
Known for attracting “throngs of cinephiles” at previous stops in Austin, Toronto, Los Angeles, and New York, the Mobile Closet continued its streak in Chicago. Despite a chilly, rainy final day, the enthusiasm of attendees remained undampened. Visitors, some arriving as early as 7:30 am, were eager to delve into the vast Criterion Collection.
From iPhone Video to Mobile Phenomenon
The concept of “Closet Picks” originated serendipitously in 2010 when director Guillermo del Toro, visiting Criterion’s offices, was filmed picking his favorite films from their collection. That grainy iPhone video evolved into a celebrated series, featuring acclaimed talents like Agnès Varda and Barry Jenkins selecting films with personal connections. Last year, the introduction of the Mobile Closet extended this exclusive experience to the general public, allowing anyone to browse over 1700 titles, film their own pick videos, and leave with a Polaroid souvenir.
Navigating the Lines and Logistics
While the Mobile Closet, a van capable of fitting five people, is more spacious than the original two-person closet, long wait times remained a factor. Some attendees reported waiting nearly four hours, with the line system initially causing confusion before Criterion President Peter Becker clarified the process. Although the vehicle boasts “mobile” in its name, it isn’t wheelchair friendly, a point of online complaint from some visitors who also reported line caps without prior warning. For those who made it inside, discs were available for purchase at a discounted price.
Film, Community, and Current Events
The event coincided with significant political unrest in Chicago, including nationwide No Kings protests against presidential policies and ICE raids causing community concern. This backdrop created a complex atmosphere for attendees.
Diverse Picks Reflect Personal Passions
Despite the external tensions, the love for cinema was palpable. Films like “The Battle of Algiers,” “Lost Highway,” “Barry Lyndon,” and “Good Morning” were popular picks. Criterion President Peter Becker noted how a small clip in a major film, such as “The Battle of Algiers” in Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” could significantly boost a classic’s popularity. Reasons for selections varied, from acquiring long-time favorites to discovering new international cinema, as shared by attendees like David Astudillo and Sam Adan, who explored Japanese films after a recent trip.
Finding Connection Amidst Chicago’s Challenges
For many, the Mobile Closet offered a necessary escape. David Astudillo articulated this sentiment, noting, “With everything that’s going on right now, I think a lot of people are just trying to continue on with their day as best as possible while taking into account what’s happening with the current administration.” Others saw the event as a testament to Chicago’s strong sense of community. Roscoe Village resident Nick Funk observed, “I think this is a really strong city when it comes to coming together for things… it wants to push for change and wants its people to be heard.” Becker echoed this, suggesting that both the film festival and protests foster a joyful sense of community when people unite around shared passions or beliefs.
Anthony Nuccio from Joliet emphasized the arts’ role in uniting people during polarized times. While the experience offered a chance to “nerd out” and find relief, attendees like Astudillo acknowledged the eventual return to reality: “while this is definitely a time to feel a little bit better, we still have to go home and continue to work through everything that’s going on right now.”
Criterion Closet: Original vs. Mobile
| Feature | Original Closet (Criterion HQ) | Mobile Closet (Touring Van) |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Reserved for filmmakers, actors, celebrities | Open to the general public |
| Size | Tight confines, fits 2 people | Larger van, fits up to 5 people |
| Location | Criterion offices | Various cities, often at festivals |
| Purpose | Film “Closet Picks” series | Public browsing, videos, Polaroids, purchase |
FAQs About the Criterion Mobile Closet’s Chicago Visit
- What is the Criterion Mobile Closet?
It’s a touring pop-up van that brings a curated selection of films from the Criterion Collection to various cities, allowing the public to browse, choose favorites, record their own “Closet Picks” video, and get a Polaroid. - Where was the Mobile Closet located in Chicago?
It set up shop at AMC New City, as part of the 61st Chicago International Film Festival. - Were the films free, or did you have to pay?
Attendees could purchase their chosen discs at a discounted price before leaving the Mobile Closet. - How accessible was the Mobile Closet?
While “mobile” in name, the vehicle itself was not wheelchair friendly. Criterion’s website offers alternative accommodations for wheelchair users, including discounts and Polaroids. - What were the typical wait times?
Many visitors reported waiting in line for nearly four hours to enter the Mobile Closet.
The Criterion Mobile Closet’s visit to Chicago underscored how shared passions, like the love for film, can create vital spaces for community and respite, even when surrounded by the city’s broader political landscape. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, finding joy and connection through the arts is a powerful act of unity for Chicagoans.
Criterion Mobile Closet Brings Cinematic Joy to Chicago
