5 Criterion Closet Picks to See in Case Lav Diaz Gets His Own Episode
We highlight five favorite episodes from the Criterion Collection’s “Closet Picks” series, featuring selections by notable film lovers such as Ayo Edebiri, Cillian Murphy, and Filipino filmmaker Isabel Sandoval.
Lav Diaz’s Criterion Closet Visits
Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz has visited the Criterion Closet twice, first in 2023 and again in October 2025. Although his most recent episode has not yet been released, the Criterion Collection revealed some of his chosen titles:
- David Lynch’s Lost Highway
- Jean-Pierre Melville’s Le Samouraï
- Box sets: Letters from Fontainhas: Three Films by Pedro Costa and Ingmar Bergman’s Cinema
The Criterion Collection hinted that there is "more to come," suggesting a future “Closet Picks” episode featuring Diaz.
Ayo Edebiri’s Eclectic Selections
Comedian and actor Ayo Edebiri enters the Criterion Closet with infectious enthusiasm, describing herself as “disgustingly greedy” for the wide-ranging choices she made. Her picks reflect diverse moods and global cinema influences:
- Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low and Stanley Donen’s Charade for their precision and charm
- Juzo Itami’s The Funeral for its sharp satire
- Charles Burnett’s To Sleep with Anger noted for its dark and peculiar humor
“Thank you, Criterion, for letting me in the closet. I was disgustingly greedy.” – Ayo Edebiri
Looking Back at Other Favorite Episodes
Besides Diaz and Edebiri, other film enthusiasts like Cillian Murphy and Isabel Sandoval have contributed to the “Closet Picks” series, showcasing personal favorites that enrich the Criterion Collection’s curated experience.
The Criterion Closet remains a dream space for cinephiles, offering a glimpse into filmmakers’ and actors’ favorite films and their cinematic inspirations.
Author’s summary: The Criterion Closet series reveals intimate cinematic tastes of notable film lovers, with Lav Diaz’s awaited episode and diverse picks from talented artists enriching the beloved collection.