Udo Kier’s Closet Picks

The prolific German actor recalls the time he met Paul Morrissey on a plane, the festival encounter that led to his first film shot in the United States, and his experience working with Lars von Trier.
Shop Udo's Closet Picks: www.criterion....

[@forlorncorns]

These videos should be 20 minutes long minimum. It's so fascinating listening to these great stories.

[@thevoid99]

20 minutes. no, make it an hour.

[@TomWollenbergDJSLT]

Yeah, this shouldve been an hour

[@hankworden3850]

Yeah! That would totally suck!

[@zetetick395]

Yeah, they bother to get Udo Kier to come over then give the guy like six minutes! .....Why?

[@Jon-bt4zv]

Kier is a living legend. He probably met every movie icon back then

[@cristinesaunders2428]

I adore Udo Kier! He is very unique, and and icon! His acting is his own, and he is iconic! Hugs to you Udo!

[@thepalaceworm]

Udo Kier, also known to many of us as, THAT guy, just told "three important stories" and I am sitting here BEGGING him for more! I would rather hear his stories than drink the blood of a wergin. I have no idea what to do with the gallbladder, but Thank You so much Mr. Kier. You will forever be known as, "God that guy freaks me out."

[@vokasimid5330]

😂🤣

[@guely55]

😆😅🤣🤣😅😆😆

[@DocHollywoodMD]

Udo is the only celebrity I’ve ever met. I was running to make a connecting flight at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport and stepped off the tram when I passed a striking looking older man in a burnt orange suit. I took a couple more steps and stopped, turned around, and looked back. It was Udo Kier, and he had gotten on the tram. I waved and said “Udo! I love your work!” He smiled and waved back and the tram doors closed. I started towards my gate, and I laughed to myself. The people on the tram were probably thinking “Who the hell is Udo?” Wish I had a little time to talk with him, he seems like a good guy!

[@deanphoto2]

Great chance encounter

[@ericfelds6291]

7:35

[@frontpuff]

The man the myth the legend!! As a German I love having a national treasure like Mr. Kier!! Much Love

[@filmmaker610]

Udo getting laserdiscs of his two movies in the closet = instant LEGEND!!

[@dank7256]

Here is a man who I could listen too tell his stories all day.

[@dank7256]

@gussstavo 😂 that bad huh

[@RoccoGeorge]

I could listen to Udo Kier forever, What a career. Met him in Portland at a showing of "Blood for Dracula" at North West Film Center in 94/93, it was the only autograph I ever got or would ever ask for, and he was very gracious and friendly. He's worked with them all from Guy Maddin, to Dario Argento. If I ever get a budget higher than 50$ I would love to cast him in a film.

[@SLIMECORE_TV]

lol Judging by the thousands of eclectic films I've seen him in, I think he'd do it for the 50. There's a few actors like Kier, who can bounce between some acclaimed high end indie films to bargain bin Z-list horror films with equal enthusiasm.

[@sonofsound]

About 6-7 years ago I went to an Academy screening of Private Idaho, a new 35mm archival print had been made. Van Sant was slated to speak beforehand, but Udo Kier was a last-minute guest. Van Sant got in about three words, but none of us cared. Udo Kier stole the show with his amazing stories.

[@jspencer3088]

Please have him back. Those stories were fascinating and I know he has so many more.

[@ReyntiensDanny]

He genuinely sound so humble in how he got such an incredible career. Kier should write a memoir. Amazing stories.

[@lindanathan-n2n]

No one will buy it

[@ReyntiensDanny]

@@lindanathan-n2n Well I would, And I know a few friends so at least 10 people will buy it! So people do will buy it!

[@blakewilliams5627]

I can’t believe he pulled out a laserdisc criterion film. I’ve never seen someone pull a film that wasn’t a blu ray.

[@matthewpaul6904]

That shit is shrink wrapped?!?! The hell, Udo!

[@samreid9106]

Someone needs to pull Ghostbusters and Blade Runner

[@RingoandCarlin]

And Singing in the Rain, Help! The Beatles, Night at the Opera, Monty Python and the Holy Grail and the first three James Bond films and King Kong

[@tracymurray6840]

I didn't know Criterion was doing laserdisc.

[@gecafe]

@@tracymurray6840they began with LDs, in 1984! They created the entire concept of extras like commentary tracks. When they began doing DVDs in the late 90s, they reset the spine numbering system.

[@YolandaAnneBrown95726]

I met Udo Kier back in 2017 at Texas Frightmare Weekend, and I'll never forget how absolutely charming he was. We even danced as we took pictures. Such a class act. And to watch him share his stories on this video just makes me smile.

[@GoblinToxin]

I truly love this man's entire career. He is more than just a "character actor;" he is a screen presence! From Suspiria to Cigarette Burns, and has every right to the respect that you might show to greats like Vincent Price, Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. He has the gothic air of a true legend and a range in film that can't be exaggerated. Just to shake his hand would make a story that I wouldn't spare anyone I meet.

[@holgerschulz4104]

In 2000, Udo Kier stopped by at his hometown Cologne´s Fantasy Filmfest - there was a screening for "Shadow of the Vampire". Outside the festival´s movie theatre, there was a small park, where inbetween screenings us fans would gather for a talk and drinks. And Udo would show up there, sitting down with us for a chat and a can of beer. He was awesome!

[@SolitaryWolf]

Udo Kier is a gem of an actor. No one can replicate the stamp he puts on his parts in a film.

[@KohalaLover]

Adore his face and specially those mesmerizing eyes. A delightful actor.

[@videovagrancy8526]

I have been such a big Udo Kier fan since I was a kid. I could listen to him tell stories all day. What a legend!!

[@lindanathan-n2n]

If he was a legend Hollywood would be calling but they never liked his work or him

[@Ichtyosapiens]

Such a loveable and open minded guy. I understand how he came in contact with so many iconic filmmakers.

[@15ecstasy]

I always thought he was one of the coolest and most interesting actors, he always seems to be well invested in a movie , not caring if it's a high or low budget flim.

[@Grandmastergav86]

Yuri himself! What a legend! Udo's eyes and voice still make me believe he's a vampire. He maxed his charisma stat, his presence is unreal.

[@RamonIRL]

I love this guy. Always found him such a majestic and interesting dude. Big love for Kier

[@dotsloops7486]

I just met him last week on his birthday in Palm Springs, he was sipping Sherry ( I think ) mid day and I introduced myself and thanked him for his work, he asked “what’s your favourite” and I froze up a bit, he quickly let me off the hook and recommended “Swan Song” I’m not frozen now so will go with “Shadow of the Vampire” Thanks Udo for being a Gent and for the great work, too many more yet to come.

[@spaceodds1985]

Finally glad to see Kier get this level recognition

[@iangrant3615]

What a legend! Love that he chose to tell stories about his own work and chose all his own movies! Classic Udo! He seems like a great guy.

[@christopherdfrias]

I love Udo Kier, from Ace Ventura to Fassbinder to LVT to Warhol, what a gentleman. King.

[@mtbroca]

First time I saw Udo Kier was when I visited my uncle in Toulouse, France. I was 8 years old (1978) and watching TV. This handsome fellow was riding a horse in a film I never found out the name of this film on TV. My mouth dropped, he was the most beautiful man I had ever seen. Years went by and fortunately I discovered him again in "The Story of O", "Mark of The Devil", "BF Dracula ", "FF Frankenstein ".... that time I caught his name. When I'm down I just look for Udo Kier and it always puts a smile on my face.

[@warlockofwordschannel7901]

Enjoyed him in so many interesting films over the years, he has such a unique screen presence!

[@davidboyce8683]

What a lovely, humble man Udo is .Nice to see him still looking well and kicking butt.

[@pete49327]

I've seen all the closet videos and this is THE most immersive and interesting, just great story and anecdotes, remembrances from Udo Kier. Thank you Mr. Kier for your wonderful appearance in the C.C. closet!

[@raoulmontefiore4803]

Blood For Dracula and Flesh For Frankenstein laserdiscs. Best closet items ever!

[@anton1990]

Udo Kier, one of the most mesmerizing actors I can think of.

[@tylersdog]

Oh, God! Just turn the camera on and let him talk! I have spent so much of my life seeing him , from "Flesh for Frankenstein'" till now, and he never fails to amaze and amuse. Thanks, and more please?

[@Vash108]

I always love when Udo shows up in a movie.

[@KMHill]

Someone needs to do a feature length interview with Udo, or series of interviews. There is no doubt he has hundreds more such fascinating stories. Such a legendary character actor.

[@LinouGertz]

Amazing stories, could listen all day. For the first time I didn't care about the pics but just wanted to listen to the stories. Have always loved his voice so much!

[@ReysonFox]

This amazing supporting actor was all over my childhood in the 90s and 2000s. He has such an iconic voice and presence.

[@jimbosparadise]

If you ever get a chance to go see Udo Kier speak, do not hesitate. He was a guest at a horror convention I went to, most panels bore me, but his was magnificent. I was dying laughing the whole time and he told so many wildly candid stories. Got to meet him later that day and get a pic and he was so sweet and funny.

[@pcaul8156]

Worked with Udo on his desert lot in Joshua Tree a few years ago, was such a nice man and funny

[@selina4]

I could listen for hours..... Such an interesting, accomplished and likeable man.

[@TheEnnisfan]

The Great Udo Kier. What an actor. Thank you, Criterion Closet for this gem.

[@adambazso9207]

Udo Kier acted in so many iconic films from all over the world that it's almost impossible to count them. He was good in "Cigarette Burns" from John Carpenter too, that's one of my favourite productions of Carpenter from the past few decades. Mr. Kier worked with Gábor Bódy from Hungary, Christoph Schlingensief from Germany, Lars von Trier, Gus van Sant and tons of other great filmmakers. It's insane in how many interesting and crazy productions he participated. After watching the video: I could listen to him for hours to be honest, it's just great. 😊😀

[@FrydaWolff]

He is the cutest this should be longer. 😭

[@gnalkhere]

First Laserdisc on camera 🎉

[@sylvaniaboi]

please please... this should have been MUCH LONGER - it was FANTASTIC listening to Udo !!

[@TheChillennial]

Story time with Udo is my favorite.

[@Sulu-sw3zo]

This is a true gem. As a teenager in New Zealand my pal and I absolutely loved watching Flesh for Frankenstein, and Blood for Dracula. What a treat to see Udo Kier still going strong. All the best.

[@ImnotassweetasIusedtobe]

I LOVED him in Suspiria and a criminally understanding film "Swan Song." I adore that latter film. His starring role.

[@ImnotassweetasIusedtobe]

*underrated

[@SamuelBlack84]

A shame they dubbed his voice in Suspiria. Strange considering it's set in Germany

[@jonhinson5701]

"Swan Song" is fantastic. I am so glad someone besides myself appreciates this gem.

[@SolitaryWolf]

I wished I could find Swan Song on Blu-ray. So far I only found the DVD . It’s an amazing film.

[@xamalion7334]

I love Swan Song, he's hitting it out of the park. Performance of a lifetime. Should get an Oscar for it, seriously.

[@tkusterb]

I've always had a great fondness for Udo Kier and this casual Criterion "closet" chat makes me love him even more!

[@Bible-Black_0]

I have never seen Udo Keir out of character. What a wonderful sweet man. He seems like he would be a blast just to sit down and discuss movies with.

[@fredmoss3515]

Just a Genuine human being .... and realising how lucky he has been !

[@MattelJones]

Really enjoyed this episode a lot. Udo Kier is wonderful.

[@zeerakshow]

I met Udo on the set of Dracula…those were the good old days… 87 years old now and still to this day, one of the best production teams I’ve worked with. Long live Udo Kier!!!

[@OuterGalaxyLounge]

Walking movie history legend. Love Udo Kier!

[@worf7271]

Legendary actor. Go Udo!

[@kingoftheducks]

When you start out obsessively watching films as a young kid you very quickly learn that, no matter the quality of the film itself, if Udo Kier's name is in the credits then you'll get one memorable performance at least!

[@davidmacgowan2337]

What a lovely storyteller. I could listen to him all day.

[@Mobilecyclist]

Seems like a kind and pleasant man, with a sense of humility… he is absolutely a great actor (can’t believe he doubted himself) because he can be so intense and/or creepy when he turned it on! #Legend Thank You Udo!

[@dougieb2159]

I agree he seems a, lovely guy and 79 years old!

[@paulkitt-er9dr]

I thought we lost Udo so glad he is still here to tell these amazing stories.

[@Dylanbolton69]

Guys been in so many films. Absolute legend

[@robertrosati6704]

I could listen to Udo talk about his experiences for a very long time. Very interesting.

[@thesirms]

TIL they still have laserdiscs in the criterion closet

[@gecafe]

I'm pretty sure he brought those with him!

[@28Pluto]

They keep those in the Criterion Basement... Udo, of course, was already down there entertaining the janitor with a bottle of wine and the crew had to remind Udo he was here to the do the closet bit.

[@alp-1960]

Excellent! Thank you Herr Kier for all your work, and wonderful stories.

[@ommm8]

Legend, and brilliant actor with brilliant stories. I think this is my favourite Criterion Closet ever, get him back !

[@benbishop1131]

Udo Kier is so fun to listen to. I remember Stephen Dorf commenting how hilarious Udo is on the set of Blade.

[@dramares]

His focus on the camera (the viewer) is the absolute best!... Love this dude.

[@brendafuller907]

I love this! It's so good to see him! I have been a fan of his since about 1972!! 😆 What a life & career he's had! And I can only imagine the other stories! Thank you for this! ☺️💖

[@johanvanhuyssteen9217]

This dude is so real and so genuine, I had to ask myself if he was really real. What a cool dude.

[@scottberman1223]

Very unique segment. I never realized there were laserdiscs among all the DVD/blu-ray in the closet.

[@RB-oz1mm]

Loved these stories! Please have Udo back on or have him for a longer sit-down. Living legend. No one like him. ❤ whatta sweetheart.

[@Melancthon7332]

I can't even comprehend how many stories he can tell. He's worked with EVERYBODY!

[@BobMori]

He didn't raid the closet? Fascinating. Bring him back for films he LOVES🎬

[@FloraWest]

Yes! And more stories!

[@jedethree]

I don't think he understood the concept but the result is all the better for it!

[@Nikisright]

I've loved this man for over 50 years. Why he never became a household name is beyond me. He's superb.

[@adambazso9207]

I think he didn't want to or maybe did, but it never happenned that way. He is very well known all over the world, I'm sure, which is well-deserved. He clearly loves experimental and independent projects, which is very fortunate. The first time I've seen him was in a video-clip where he played a crazy surgeon or something like that and his eyes were really striking and memorable.

[@adambazso9207]

@SamadiGABRIEL Hi, I watched just few of his movies which he created together with the German director Christoph Schlingensief, these are especially experimental, trashy and crazy. He also collaborated with the Hungarian filmmaker Gábor Bódy, who died quite young. This project is called "Psyche"(or "Nárcisz és Psyche"), it's experimental, beautiful and very artistic. They also made few short film-etudes together. I loved Mr. Kier in the John Carpenter TV-film "Cigarette Burns", which is a Lovecraftian tale of possession and insanity. One of Carpenter's best work in my opinion. I would also like to watch "My Neighbor Adolf". :)

[@jeffagain7516]

What an incredibly talented and truly gifted man! Thank-you Udo, you're awesome! :)

[@ufofanclub]

wow I could listen to his stories for hours!

[@lindanathan-n2n]

Really

[@ufofanclub]

@@lindanathan-n2n yeah 👍

[@aaronzigelbaum]

Udo Kier is a legend, i haven't seen all his films cause he's so prolific but whenever i see him casted i know the director knows what they're doing

[@CinematicDependency]

“To know death Otto, you have to fck life in the gallbladder.” - Baron Frankenstein

[@swesttttt]

What an incredible segment! Love him!!! We need more!

[@bored1ca]

This video was waaaaay too short - it should have been at least an hour long, Udo Kier's stories are truly fascinating and I would have loved to have heard more.

[@marcthorner8338]

Yes Udo!! Please tell us more stories!!!

[@jarradweir2406]

Those stories were wonderful. Hope you have him back again soon!

[@mattylujan]

Great to hear his stories. And, yes, the laserdiscs! 👌🏼✨

[@iamsheep]

He is absolutely hilarious. Amazing actor

[@iamsheep]

@gussstavoam I?

[@adambazso9207]

@gussstavo He meant it in a positive way, I think.

[@kilte90]

I want more stories, there isn't enough Udo Kier in my life.

[@twofingersmyfriends3830]

A lovely, fascinating man. This really put a smile on my face.

[@RajeshBassiouni]

Cool Udo.... bleib gesund und uns noch lange erhalten. Leeven Jroos

[@GaryALucas]

Udo Kier was quite amusing, and eerie of course, in Werner Herzog's 'My Son, My Son What Have Ye Done? , coproduced with David Lynch.

[@xamalion7334]

Just watched "Swan Song" a few weeks ago, he's phenomenal. One of our finest exports to Hollywood. Danke Udo!

[@michegre]

Loved you since I saw you in the Warhol films! If you are reading this I have been cheering you on since the late 70s Bravo!!

[@vrvretro]

I love Udo Kier in Blood for Dracula and everything else, including even the Tatort episodes. This was a real treat.

[@wehosrmthink7510]

I love this so much! Such a great history of film he’s lived.

[@astrosim]

Absolute legend! I could listen to these stories for hours.

[@DJGamingSmash]

I literally just watched My Own Private Idaho for the first time two days ago, Udo Kier was obviously the highlight for me.

[@Avelinovski]

Fantastic. Such a fascinating man... Could be listening to him all day. Better even than blood of wergins on the rocks...

[@adriannademadriguera4859]

THE. G.O.A.T! thank you, good Sir, for ALL of your amazing work. it is ALWAYS a pleasure to see you. this has made me so freaking happy. 😊😊😊😊😊

[@Tylerson]

I've never known much about Udo Kier, but I've always really enjoyed when he showed up in movies. Now I really want to know more about him and hear more stories.

[@p.w.e.2374]

Best LA memory seeing Udo thrift shopping at the Los Feliz Goodwill a few years back~

[@Filmmaker809]

I met him once at the Curzon Soho Cinema in London. Lovely man.

[@michaelmorin6235]

What a great guy. Love his work

[@SGTDave]

I've always been an Udo fan. Seeing him go straight for the laserdiscs has made a superfan.

[@SidechainStudios]

Legendary actor, legendary picks