Andrew Yang Discusses John Waters and Classic Films in Criterion Closet Visit

New York, NY — As he makes his transition into filmmaking, Andrew Yang paid homage to his cinematic influences in a recent visit to the Criterion Closet, sharing his deep appreciation for iconic directors, particularly John Waters.

During the visit, which occurred on April 10, 2025, Yang extolled the virtues of Waters, famously known for his cult classic, “Multiple Maniacs.” “He’s probably my favorite director ever,” Yang stated, noting Waters’ unique ability to transform the ‘abject’ into something ‘beautiful, elevated, and filmic.’

Yang also discussed Waters’ impact on his own creativity, saying, “What Divine and Mink Stole do in the church, kind of the most shocking thing I’ve ever seen. I’m not a pearl-clutcher. It takes a lot to shock me. John Waters is a timeless shocker.”

In addition to celebrating Waters, Yang explored other influences, such as Joseph Mankiewicz’s 1950 Oscar-winning film, “All About Eve.” The film follows Bette Davis as an aging Broadway star facing rivalry from her young admirer, played by Anne Baxter. Yang remarked, “I am a gay man after all,” explaining his connection to Davis’s memorable lines, particularly her assertion of exclusive rights over her personal life.

Yang’s selections continued with Whit Stillman’s 1998 film, “The Last Days of Disco,” featuring Kate Beckinsale and Chloë Sevigny. Yang said, “I feel like we don’t talk about this movie enough, especially as it relates to nightlife, which is so hard to pull off in film. I’ve had fantasies about making a nightlife film, and they’re just hard to do authentically. You can’t capture the feeling of going out to the club.”

Yang’s selections also included Jim Jarmusch’s “Mystery Train” and Jackie Chan’s “Police Story.” His engagement with these films offered a glimpse into the eclectic mix of influences that have shaped his artistic vision.

Watch Yang’s entire Criterion Closet visit to gain further insight into his cinematic journey and the films that resonate with him.