Quentin Tarantino Criticizes Paul Dano as the ‘Least Talented Actor in SAG’ and the ‘Major Weakness’ in ‘There Will Be Blood,’ Sparking Fan Backlash

Quentin Tarantino has ignited controversy online after criticizing Paul Dano during an appearance on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, where he discussed his favorite films of the 21st century. Tarantino ranked Paul Thomas Andersons There Will Be Blood fifth on his list, but claimed the film contained a major flawPaul Danos performance.

Its meant to be a two-person dynamic, but it clearly isnt, Tarantino said. Dano is weak. Hes overshadowed completely by Daniel Day-Lewis. Austin Butler would have been far better. Hes uninteresting and lacks presence. Day-Lewis doesnt need a strong counterpart, but the movie does. Yet it pairs him with one of the weakest actors in SAG.

During the conversation, Ellis suggested that Dano delivered an appropriate performance for his role. Tarantino clarified: Im not saying its terrible, just that its nearly invisible. I personally dont care for it.

There Will Be Blood features Daniel Day-Lewis as Daniel Plainview, a ruthless oilman in the early 20th century, while Dano plays the dual roles of twins Paul and Eli Sunday, the latter a preacher. Despite Tarantinos criticism, both he and Ellis praised Day-Lewis acting and Andersons meticulous filmmaking. The craftsmanship was old Hollywood style without trying to be, Tarantino said. There were no typical set piecesthe story itself carried everything, and Anderson executed it brilliantly.

Notably, when the film originally released, critics lauded Danos performance. Variety described him as moving from deferential to fervent in a powerful portrayal of the young man of God.

Author: Ethan Caldwell