Podcast Summary: The Criterion Episode

Introduction

In a unique and special episode of The Lonely Island and Seth Meyers Podcast, hosted by Seth Meyers alongside comedy-music trio The Lonely Island (Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer, and Jorma Taccone), the conversation takes an insightful turn as they collaborate with esteemed guests Mike Schur and Jake Tapper. The primary focus of this episode, titled "The Criterion Episode," revolves around selecting the best SNL Digital Shorts to be included in the prestigious Criterion Collection. Released on December 23, 2024, this episode delves deep into the creative processes, historical impacts, and enduring legacies of these groundbreaking digital shorts.

Guests and Their Backgrounds

Mike Schur, renowned for creating beloved television series like Parks and Recreation, and Jake Tapper, a distinguished news anchor, join Seth and The Lonely Island to act as official judges for this selection process. Their combined experiences from SNL, The Office, and other significant projects provide a rich foundation for evaluating the digital shorts' merits.

Setting the Stage: Criteria for Selection

The discussion begins with elucidating the criteria for what qualifies a digital short for the Criterion Collection. Drawing analogies to academic grading systems, Mike Schur and Jake Tapper advocate for selecting the top 20% of the available shorts. Mike explains, “I would say no more than the top... the top category is Criterion. And so I would say 20% is one out of every five. I think is the most you could” (10:50).

Examining Specific Digital Shorts

1. Confirmed Criterion Shorts

   • Lazy Sunday (13:59): This digital short is unanimously recognized for its pioneering role in popularizing internet-based comedy sketches. Mike shares a memorable anecdote: “I was in Amy Poehler's dressing room and Lazy Sunday aired... I was like, yeah, that's going to be a thing” (14:25). Its cultural impact and innovative approach make it a no-brainer inclusion.

   • Natalie's Rap (13:59): Celebrated for its creative fusion of celebrity participation and musical comedy, Seth reminisces, “I have to say, it was then there's the hallways of SNL have black and white photos from sketches that have a lot of people in em that have really funny costumes” (08:28). The short's unique aesthetic and performance quality solidify its status as Criterion.

   • Dick in a Box (13:59): With overwhelming positive responses, this short tops the votes. Seth highlights its memorable lines, “It's Christmas and my heart is open wide Gonna give you something so you know what's on my mind?” (31:32). Its clever humor and viral appeal make it a standout nominee.

   • Dear Sister (13:59): Praised for its heartfelt narrative and character development, Mike emphasizes, “It's a great performance by Hader as the executive...” (24:33). The blend of comedy and emotion resonates well with audiences, meriting its inclusion.

   • The Mirror (13:59): Both Mike and Jake voted "yes" for this short, citing its clever premise and execution. Seth notes, “It's essentially like what you saw on Delta Airlines, which I think is a plus for it” (31:35).

2. Debated and Additional Categories

   • Laser Cats (30:17): This short sparked a divided opinion. While Jake Tapper supported its inclusion, Mike Schur opposed it, categorizing it under “Additional Reading.” Seth briefly comments, “Do you believe any Laser Cats? No.” (30:52). Alan Sepinwall later argues for its essential role in the Criterion Collection, highlighting its importance in the digital shorts' narrative.

   • Kim's Videos (23:38): Positioned as a “deep cut” favorite, this category includes shorts that are beloved by hardcore fans but may not meet the Criterion threshold. Mike describes it as “essentially like syllabus” (23:38).

   • Additional Reading (13:38): This category encompasses shorts that, while not Criterion-worthy, provide valuable context and understanding of The Lonely Island's creative evolution.

   • Andy Walking, Peyote, and Other Shorts: These were generally categorized under “No” votes, with brief discussions on their merits and shortcomings. Seth and Mike concurred on their exclusion based on criteria standards.

Insightful Anecdotes from SNL and The Office

Throughout the episode, Mike Schur shares heartfelt memories from his time at SNL and his transition to The Office. Reflecting on "Lazy Sunday," Mike states, “I was standing next to Will Arnett, and I remember this clear as day. He and I looked at each other and he was like, that was incredible” (14:35). Seth recounts his own experiences pitching sketches to Mike, highlighting the collaborative and sometimes challenging nature of writing for SNL.

Alan Sepinwall's Perspective

Midway through the episode, television critic Alan Sepinwall joins the conversation, offering a critical eye to the selection process. He supports the inclusion of “Larry Cat” as fundamental to understanding The Lonely Island’s oeuvre but remains reserved about others like “Roy Rules,” despite recognizing its comedic value. Alan articulates, “It goes back to their origins with the boo... They sort of kept picking at the scab over and over again until they got through all of it” (50:21).

Conclusion and Final Selections

In the concluding segments, Seth recaps the agreed-upon Criterion Collection nominees:

• Lazy Sunday
• Natalie's Rap
• Dick in a Box
• Dear Sister
• The Mirror

Additional debates on shorts like Laser Cats and Roy Rules remain unresolved, pending further deliberation as potential tiebreakers. The episode wraps up with acknowledgments and a final recap, affirming the enduring legacy and cultural significance of the selected digital shorts.

Notable Quotes

• Seth Meyers on Criterion Percentage: “So I'm just like, yeah, I have the... I'm staring at it right now” (09:37).

• Mike Schur on Laser Cats: “They did five of them. Seven. I've lost track” (48:56).

• Alan Sepinwall on Dear Sister: “... you just kind of kept picking at the scab over and over again until they got through all of it” (50:21).

• Jake Tapper on Criterion Judging: “It's inevitable that... you're breaking them into five categories, and the top category is Criterion” (10:50).

Final Thoughts

"The Criterion Episode" serves not only as a celebration of The Lonely Island's innovative contributions to comedy but also as an insightful exploration into the criteria that elevate a digital short to timeless classic status. Through engaging discussions, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful critiques, Seth Meyers and his esteemed guests honor the artistry and impact of these SNL Digital Shorts, ensuring their legacy endures within the Criterion Collection.