Star Fires Back at Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Weakest Actor’ Critique
A prominent film star has publicly responded to Quentin Tarantino’s recent harsh critique, which labeled him as the “weakest f*g actor” in Hollywood. Tarantino, a revered figure in cinema, made these comments during an appearance on The Bret Easton Ellis podcast. His remarks have since stirred significant backlash within the industry.
Quentin Tarantino’s Controversial Remarks
Tarantino, 62, discussed his top ten films and expressed that “There Will Be Blood” would have ranked higher if not for the performance of Paul Dano. Dano, 41, starred alongside Oscar-winning actor Daniel Day-Lewis in the 2007 film, which earned Day-Lewis the Best Actor Oscar.
Criticism of Paul Dano
Tarantino suggested that Dano was a major flaw in the film, stating, “Dano is weak sauce, man. He is the weak sister… You put him with the weakest f*g actor in SAG?” His comments drew immediate backlash, especially given that actor Austin Butler, who Tarantino mentioned as more suitable for Dano’s role, would have been a teenager during filming.
Support for Paul Dano
Nearly two months after the controversy, Dano chose to focus on the public support he received. At the 20th anniversary screening of “Little Miss Sunshine” during the Sundance Film Festival, he expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. “I was also incredibly grateful that the world spoke up for me so I didn’t have to,” he told Variety.
Industry Reactions
- Toni Collette criticized Tarantino’s harsh comments, stating, “F* that guy! He must’ve been high… it was just confusing. Who does that?”
- Jonathan Dayton, co-director of “Little Miss Sunshine,” referred to Tarantino’s remarks as an “embarrassment,” suggesting they stemmed from discomfort with Dano’s performance.
- Valerie Faris, also a director of the film, noted the immediate support for Dano, emphasizing his intelligence and the admiration he receives from many.
This situation has revealed not only Dano’s resilience but also highlighted the camaraderie and protective instincts among his peers in the film industry.
