Paul Dano Grateful as Fans Defend Him Against Tarantino’s Criticism
Actor Paul Dano recently responded to critical remarks made by director Quentin Tarantino regarding his performance in the acclaimed film “There Will Be Blood.” Tarantino, during a podcast, labeled Dano the “weakest actor in SAG,” sparking considerable backlash from fans and colleagues. Following a screening of “Little Miss Sunshine” at the Sundance Film Festival, Dano’s co-star Toni Collette vocally defended him, questioning Tarantino’s comments.
Paul Dano’s Response to Tarantino’s Criticism
Despite the harsh criticism, Dano chose to remain largely silent on the matter. He expressed appreciation for the support he received on social media, stating, “That was really nice. I was also incredibly grateful that the world spoke up for me so I didn’t have to.” This sentiment highlighted the overwhelming encouragement Dano received from fans and fellow artists alike.
Industry Support for Dano
Not only did fans rally behind Dano, but industry figures also came forward to defend him. Directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, known for “Little Miss Sunshine,” voiced their disapproval of Tarantino’s comments. Dayton described the remarks as an “embarrassment,” suggesting that Dano’s unique performance style might have unsettled Tarantino.
- Dayton’s Perspective: Tarantino’s discomfort with Dano’s performance.
- Faris noted the immediate support for Dano, emphasizing his intelligence and popularity.
Tarantino’s Controversial Podcast Remarks
The controversy began when Tarantino discussed his film rankings on Brett Easton Ellis’s podcast. He acknowledged that while he would have chosen “There Will Be Blood” as one of the best films of the 21st century, Dano’s portrayal led him to reconsider the film’s ranking. Tarantino stated, “It’s supposed to be a two-hander,” yet criticized Dano’s performance as “weak” in comparison to co-star Daniel Day-Lewis, who he insisted did not require a strong counterpart.
Tarantino’s comments not only targeted Dano but also extended to other actors such as Owen Wilson and Matthew Lillard, further alienating himself from parts of the film community. Lillard later remarked how painful such criticism can be, especially coming from a prominent director.
The Legacy of “Little Miss Sunshine”
The renewed attention surrounding this incident coincided with the 20th anniversary of “Little Miss Sunshine,” which has remained a significant success in independent cinema. This screening, held in Park City, serves as a reminder of the film’s impact on the industry.
As the discourse continues, Dano’s resilience and the vocal support from his peers highlight a strong community standing against disparaging remarks in the film industry.
