You can make your own iconic Criterion Closet video at TIFF this week

One of the most popular video series in the film space is all about the Criterion Closet.

In these videos, famous actors and filmmakers enter a large room full of Criterion Collection movies and pick out their favourites. For any cinephile, there’s a delight in hearing what’s inspired such acclaimed directors as Martin Scorsese and Canada’s own David Cronenberg and Denis Villeneuve and popular actors like Andrew Garfield, Jamie Lee Curtis and Cate Blanchett. And if nothing else, you might discover great new movies.

Now, as part of this week’s big 50th anniversary TIFF festival, the touring Criterion Mobile Closet is making its first-ever stop in Toronto at 350 King Street West, right across from the TIFF Lightbox. From September 4 to 7, you (and up to four friends) can line up to enter the Mobile Closet together (there’s no advance booking) and record their own mini Criterion Closet video of up to three minutes.

No purchase is necessary to enter, but Criterion will be giving guests a special 40 per cent discount if you buy up to three items. (Credit card only.) On top of that, you’ll get a complimentary Polaroid pic and, while supplies last, a tote bag and Collection guide.

For reference, here are the hours of the Mobile Closet:

• September 4: 3 to 7 p.m.
• September 5 to 7: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

More information, including an FAQ, can be found on Criterion’s website.

Naturally, the Criterion Mobile Closet coincides with TIFF 50, which runs from September 4 to 14. Many buzzworthy movies are set to premiere at the show, including Frankenstein, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, John Candy: I Like Me, No Other Choice and Rental Family.

Image credit: Criterion Collection