Oscar-Winning Director Criticised by Burt Reynolds as “Brilliant but Difficult”
Despite differing opinions, the film industry often witnesses unique relationships among its stars and directors. Burt Reynolds, a prominent figure in Hollywood, has expressed his candid thoughts on various filmmakers over the decades. One notable instance involved his critique of Oscar-winning director John Avildsen, known for his acclaimed work but described by Reynolds as “brilliant but difficult.”
Burt Reynolds on John Avildsen
Reynolds starred in the 1975 film “WW and the Dixie Dancekings,” which was directed by Avildsen. Although Reynolds acknowledged Avildsen’s talent, he did not hold back on his personal feelings. In an interview with Deadline, Reynolds recounted a confrontation that highlighted their turbulent relationship.
During the shoot, Avildsen reportedly instructed cast member Mel Tillis to stop stuttering. Reynolds found this unacceptable. He confronted Avildsen forcefully, expressing his disdain for the director’s lack of understanding.
Memorable Quotes
- “You dumb son of a bitch, don’t you do any homework before you do a picture?” – Burt Reynolds
- “Mel Tillis stutters. That’s what he does. He can’t stop it because you tell him to stop it.” – Burt Reynolds
John Avildsen’s Acclaimed Career
John Avildsen is best known for directing the iconic film “Rocky,” which won him the Academy Award for Best Director. He also received a nomination for Best Documentary Short for “Traveling Hopefully” in 1982. His experience and success in Hollywood are undisputed, particularly with the classic “The Karate Kid.”
Impact on Burt Reynolds
Despite the critical acclaim of “WW and the Dixie Dancekings,” Reynolds believed the film fell short of expectations. His relationship with Avildsen became emblematic of a larger issue within the film industry: the challenge of balancing creativity with personal dynamics. Reynolds did not shy away from voicing his opinions, regardless of the consequences.
Conclusion
The film industry thrives on differing perspectives, and Burt Reynolds exemplifies this through his relationship with John Avildsen. While recognizing Avildsen’s talent, Reynolds also pointed out the difficulties of working with him. This dichotomy of respect and frustration captures the complexities of Hollywood relationships.
