When it comes to the Criterion Closet, preparation is key.

Thank goodness “Megalopolis” star Nathalie Emmanuel knew this going in and came ready and raring to make her selections.

“I had to have a strategy when I came in here, because I know just by the vast collection, I would be immediately overwhelmed and then be indecisive,” said Emmanuel. “So I’ve decided to have some ideas of what I’m looking for.”

For her first pick, Emmanuel chose one of Francis Ford Coppola’s many inspirations for “Megalopolis,” the Powell & Pressburger musical piece “The Red Shoes.” The film follows a young ballet dancer who comes under the tutelage of a tyrannical director, sending her on a psychological whirlwind that makes her forget where she begins and the dance ends.

“I have such fond memories of this film. I have a dance background, ballet background, and the metaphor in the...