Quentin Tarantino Criticizes Paul Dano: 'The Least Strong Male Actor in SAG'

Director Quentin Tarantino recently voiced strong criticism of Paul Danos performance in There Will Be Blood, labeling it as a significant flaw in the otherwise highly acclaimed film. Tarantino suggested that Danos role prevented the movie from achieving a higher ranking on his personal list of the best films of the 21st century.

Tarantino Comments on Dano in Podcast Interview

While ranking Paul Thomas Andersons There Will Be Blood as his fifth-favorite film of the century, Tarantino pointed out one element that held it back from the top spots. Speaking on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, he stated, There Will Be Blood would stand a better chance to be in number 1 or number 2 if it didnt have a big giant flaw in it, and the flaw is Paul Dano.

Tarantino argued that Danos performance was overshadowed by Daniel Day-Lewis Oscar-winning work, noting, Obviously, its supposed to be a two-hander, and its also so drastically obvious that its not a two-hander. He further criticized Danos portrayal, saying, He is weak sauce, man. Hes a weak sister. and suggested that a different actor, such as Austin Butler, could have enhanced the film. [Dano is] just such a weak, weak, uninteresting guy.

When challenged about the comparison to Day-Lewis role, Tarantino quipped, So you put him with the weakest male actor in SAG? The limpest d*ck in the world? He clarified his point by adding, Im not saying hes giving a terrible performance. Im saying hes giving a non-entity performance.

Tarantino on Danos Other Work

Asked if he enjoyed Dano in other projects, Tarantino expressed disinterest: I dont care for him. I dont care for him, I dont care for Owen Wilson, and I dont care for Matthew Lillard.

Danos Career Highlights

Despite Tarantinos criticism, Paul Dano has a distinguished career, collaborating with acclaimed directors like Steven Spielberg, Bong Joon-ho, Steve McQueen, Denis Villeneuve, and Ang Lee. His performance in There Will Be Blood earned him a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He has also shared the screen with major stars including Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford, Robert De Niro, Robert Pattinson, and Daniel Radcliffe.

Author: Ethan Caldwell