Quentin Tarantino Expresses Dislike for Owen Wilson and Criticizes Other Actors

Director Quentin Tarantino has shared his candid views on actors and films. The 62-year-old filmmaker appeared on The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast on Tuesday, December 2, to talk about his favorite movies released since 2000. Among the films he highlighted was Woody Allens Midnight in Paris (2011), which he ranked as the 10th best movie of the century so far.

However, Tarantinos admiration for the film came with a surprising confession about its star. Oddly enough, I really cant stand Owen Wilson. I mean, I cant stand him, he revealed, according to People. He explained, The first time I watched the movie, I loved it but hated him. The second time, I thought, OK, dont be so harsh. Hes not that bad. By the third viewing, I found myself actually watching him closely.

Wilson, 57, portrayed a struggling writer who explores 1920s Paris with his fiance, encountering legendary figures like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Salvador Dali.

Tarantino did not shy away from expressing his opinions on other actors as well. He mentioned that he doesnt particularly like Matthew Lillard and criticized Paul Danos performance in There Will Be Blood (2007), calling it weak sauce. He suggested that Austin Butler, who he directed in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, would have been an excellent choice for that role.

In addition to Midnight in Paris, Tarantino listed his other top movies of the century so far, including Shaun of the Dead, Mad Max: Fury Road, Unstoppable, Zodiac, There Will Be Blood, Dunkirk, Toy Story 3, Lost in Translation, and Black Hawk Down.

Analysis: Tarantino's Unfiltered Views on Actors and Cinema

Quentin Tarantino’s recent podcast appearance reveals a filmmaker unafraid to separate his appreciation for a film from his feelings about its actors. Despite ranking Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris among the top ten films of the century, Tarantino candidly admitted his initial dislike for Owen Wilson, describing a gradual shift in perception over multiple viewings.

Beyond Wilson, Tarantino expressed clear opinions on other actors, criticizing performances by Paul Dano and expressing disfavor toward Matthew Lillard. He also highlighted Austin Butler, who starred in his Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, as an actor he believes could have delivered stronger work in other roles.

This insight underscores Tarantino’s distinct evaluative approach: he judges films independently of the actors involved, but his commentary remains sharp and personal. His top film picks, ranging from Shaun of the Dead to Dunkirk, reflect both critical acclaim and his own taste, offering a glimpse into the cinematic standards of one of Hollywood’s most influential directors.

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• Quentin Tarantino Says He ‘Can’t Stand Owen Wilson,’ Slams Other Actors